Complete guide to studying in the United Arab Emirates

Everything you need to know about becoming an international student in the UAE

Top reasons to study in the UAE:

• World-class universities and rapidly growing research output
• Safe, modern cities with exceptional quality of life
• Strategic global location connecting Europe, Asia and Africa
• Diverse, multicultural environment
• Strong industry links and excellent career opportunities in finance, tech, aviation, tourism and more
• English widely used in higher education

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A quick introduction to the UAE

Located on the Arabian Peninsula, the United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ajman. Known for its futuristic cities, impressive skylines and global business hubs, the UAE has become one of the Middle East’s most dynamic destinations for international education.

The country blends traditional Arab culture with a modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle. With residents from more than 190 nationalities, international students often find the UAE welcoming, safe and culturally open.

Higher education in the UAE has expanded rapidly over the last two decades. Today, the country hosts a mix of national universities and international branch campuses from globally recognised institutions such as NYU, Heriot-Watt University and the University of Birmingham.

Many programmes follow international standards, often taught in English and aligned with global qualifications frameworks. The UAE’s emphasis on innovation, sustainability and technology makes it an appealing choice for students who want to study in a forward-thinking academic environment.

The country’s strong aviation links and central global location give students access to destinations across Asia, Europe and Africa, making it ideal for travel during breaks or internships.

The Emirates: A quick overview

The UAE is a federation of seven emirates, each with its own character, culture and education landscape. International students often choose their study destination based on lifestyle preferences and university offerings.

Abu Dhabi

The capital and the largest emirate. Known for its cultural institutions, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and for hosting major international events. Home to top universities like Khalifa University and UAE University.

Dubai

The UAE’s most internationally recognised city, a global hub for business, tourism and technology. Hosts numerous branch campuses, including University of Wollongong Dubai, Middlesex University Dubai and Heriot-Watt University Dubai.

Sharjah

Known as the UAE’s cultural capital, offering a more traditional atmosphere and world-renowned museums. Home to the University of Sharjah and American University of Sharjah, both respected across the region.

Other emirates

Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain also host growing universities and branch campuses, often with more affordable living costs and quieter lifestyles.

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The UAE’s higher education system

Higher education in the UAE includes public universities, private universities, and international branch campuses, many of which operate under licensing from the UAE Ministry of Education or relevant emirate-level authorities (such as Dubai’s KHDA).

Public universities

Public institutions are generally prestigious and research-focused, though they often prioritise Emirati students. A few public universities admit international students, especially at postgraduate level.

Key examples include:

• United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) – the oldest and one of the most research-active universities
• Khalifa University – ranked among the top in the region for science, engineering and technology
• Zayed University – known for humanities, business and arts programmes

Public universities often emphasise STEM, business and public policy, aligning with national development goals.

Private universities

Private institutions make up a large part of the UAE’s higher education sector and are popular with international students. They offer a wide range of programmes taught in English, often with international faculty and globally recognised curricula.

Examples include:

• American University of Sharjah
• American University in Dubai
• Ajman University
• University of Sharjah
• International branch campuses

The UAE hosts one of the world’s largest concentrations of foreign university branches.

These campuses offer degrees accredited in the university’s home country, giving students the opportunity to earn an international qualification while studying in the UAE.

Popular examples include:

• New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD)
• University of Birmingham Dubai
• Heriot-Watt University Dubai
• University of Stirling Ras Al Khaimah
• Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi

This model provides a unique blend of global education with local industry access and cultural immersion.

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Climate

The UAE has a desert climate, characterised by hot summers, warm winters and plenty of sunshine. Students moving from cooler climates may need some time to adjust.

Summer (May-September): Temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F), with very high humidity on the coast. Outdoor activities are limited, but buildings are well air-conditioned.

Winter (November-March): Comfortable and pleasant, usually between 18-28°C (64-82°F). This is the most popular season for outdoor activities, festivals and travel.

Rain: Minimal rainfall, mostly during the winter months.

Sun: Very strong year-round – sunscreen and hydration are essential.

Because of the modern infrastructure, students can still enjoy daily life comfortably, especially as public transport, university buildings and accommodation are climate-controlled.

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Lifestyle and welfare

Life in the UAE can be exciting, safe and comfortable – with world-class infrastructure, excellent public services and plenty of opportunities to socialise, travel and explore multicultural communities.

Healthcare

The UAE has a highly developed healthcare system and international students must have valid health insurance throughout their stay.

Most universities provide or require:

• University-arranged health insurance plans, or
• Private insurance that meets visa requirements

Medical facilities are modern and staffed by international doctors. Students usually pay a small co-payment for appointments within approved networks.

Food

Food culture in the UAE is incredibly diverse, reflecting its multinational population.

Students can enjoy:

• Traditional Emirati dishes like machboos and luqaimat
• Affordable Middle Eastern, Indian, Pakistani and Filipino cuisine
• International restaurants and cafés in every city
• Variety of student-friendly dining halls and food courts

Larger cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have everything from budget meals to Michelin-starred dining. Grocery prices vary, but cooking at home helps keep costs manageable.

Leisure

When you’re not studying, the UAE offers endless activities:

• Beaches, marina walks and waterfront districts
• Malls with cinemas, ice rinks, VR parks and more
• Cultural landmarks like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Sharjah Arts Museum
• Outdoor sports during winter: hiking, kayaking, desert excursions
• Events such as the Dubai Expo legacy district, music festivals and art fairs

Universities run clubs, societies and sports teams, making it easy to build friendships and join community life.

Transport

Public transport varies by emirate, but is generally clean, safe and affordable.

• Dubai: Metro, tram, buses, water transport
• Abu Dhabi: Extensive bus network
• Sharjah: Buses and intercity links to Dubai

Taxis and ride-hailing services (such as Careem and Uber) are widely used. Intercity buses connect the emirates efficiently and at low cost.

Safety

The UAE is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are extremely low, and cities are well-monitored and well-lit.

International students typically feel comfortable walking around, using public transport and living on campus.

As with any large city, the usual precautions apply, but overall, the UAE offers a very secure environment for study and daily life.

Languages

Arabic is the UAE’s official language, but English is widely used in daily life and is the primary language of instruction in most universities, especially private and international institutions.

You’ll hear dozens of languages spoken across the country, a reflection of its diverse population.

Learning some basic Arabic phrases can enrich your cultural experience, but you’ll be able to study, shop, travel and socialise comfortably using English.

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University cities

Each emirate offers its own version of student life, from vibrant cosmopolitan hubs to quieter, community-focused cities.

Dubai

Dubai is one of the world’s most international cities. Students here enjoy impressive campuses, beachside neighbourhoods, cutting-edge research clusters and an active social scene.

Popular institutions:

• Heriot-Watt University Dubai
• University of Birmingham Dubai
• Middlesex University Dubai

Dubai’s multi-university districts in Dubai Knowledge Park and Dubai International Academic City

Dubai suits students who enjoy fast-paced urban environments, networking opportunities and global exposure.

Abu Dhabi

The capital city offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Dubai, but with just as many cultural attractions and high-quality universities.

Notable institutions:

• NYU Abu Dhabi
• Khalifa University
• Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is ideal for students who want modern city living with strong research opportunities and a calm, safe environment.

Sharjah

Sharjah blends tradition, culture and education. It is known for its museums, arts festivals and academic focus.

Key universities:

• American University of Sharjah
• University of Sharjah

Students here benefit from a quieter lifestyle and strong student communities.

Ras Al Khaimah

A scenic, mountainous emirate with beaches and a slower pace of life. Popular with students seeking more affordable living.

Hosts several international campuses including:

• University of Stirling RAK
• Birmingham City University RAK

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Student visa

Most international students must secure a UAE student residence visa, typically sponsored by the university.

General requirements include:

• Official university admission
• Passport copies
• Medical test on arrival
• Health insurance
• Biometric ID application

Student visas are usually valid for one year, renewable for the duration of your studies. Students may also be permitted to work part-time, depending on their visa status and employer regulations.

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Costs of studying

Course fees

Tuition fees vary by university type and level:

• International branch campuses: around AED 40,000-90,000 per year
• Private universities: around AED 30,000-70,000 per year
• Public universities: Often lower for nationals, but international fees vary

Medicine, business and engineering programmes may cost more. Scholarships and merit-based discounts are widely available.

Living costs

Living costs depend heavily on the emirate in which you will be living.

Approximate monthly budget:

• Dubai/Abu Dhabi: AED 4,000-7,000
• Sharjah/Ajman: AED 3,000-5,000

Breakdown of this budget:

• Accommodation: AED 1,500-3,500
• Food: AED 800-1,200
• Transport: AED 150-300
• Personal expenses: AED 500-1,000

Choosing university dormitories or shared housing can significantly reduce your costs.

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How to apply to university

Applications are submitted directly to each university through their admissions portals.

Common requirements for your application include:

• Completed online application
• Academic transcripts
• Passport copy
• English proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL), for English-taught programmes
• Personal statement or motivation letter
• Application fee

Application deadlines vary, but many universities have flexible or rolling admissions, especially private and international institutions.

Competitive programmes, especially engineering, medicine and business, may require interviews, entrance exams or additional documentation.

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Job prospects for international students

The UAE’s fast-growing economy provides strong opportunities in:

• Engineering
• Information technology
• Finance and banking
• Logistics and aviation
• Hospitality and tourism
• Renewable energy
• Marketing and communications

Knowledge of English is essential, and Arabic is an advantage but not mandatory for many private-sector roles.

International graduates may apply for a job-seeker visa or transition to a work-sponsored residence visa after securing employment.

Internships during your studies can significantly improve job prospects, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

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Frequently asked questions

Is it free to study in the UAE?

No. Tuition fees apply at all universities. Costs vary widely depending on the institution and programme, but the UAE offers many scholarships and discounts for high-achieving students.

Am I allowed to work while I study?

Yes, but regulations vary.

Students in some emirates may work part-time with the appropriate permissions.

Internships and on-campus jobs are common.

Always confirm with your university and sponsor before starting work.