Best Universities in UAE: Intakes, Courses and Scholarships
Recently, Dubai has seen a rising number of Indian students choosing it as a study destination. Numerous best universities in the UAE hold international accreditation and offer diverse programs and classes. Various universities from the UK and India have set up Dubai campuses to cater to students’ increasing interest, offering scholarships and financial assistance.
Why Study in Dubai?
In Dubai, there are a total of 63 colleges and universities, with five being public and 58 being private, catering to both Emiratis and expatriates. Like in many other countries, institutions in Dubai have autonomous internal management, which results in differences among universities in terms of the subjects taught (some focusing on specific subjects) and the types of degree programs available (some offering only undergraduate or postgraduate options). Universities in Dubai can be classified as either local (established and operating in Dubai) or branch campuses (founded in another country, with a campus in Dubai).
In contrast to other famous study-abroad destinations, Dubai provides international students with cost-effective living and educational expenses. Students can also benefit from post-study work opportunities, a thriving economy, tax-free income, lenient visa regulations, and an expanding job market.
Top Universities in Dubai for Masters
Due to the rising appeal of the city to international students, various UK universities have established their branches in Dubai. It should be clear by now that Dubai has a set of universities with a global reputation. The list of universities in Dubai also holds positions in national and international rankings. Here is the list of the best universities in the UAE:
| Universities | Tuition Fees (Annually) |
|---|---|
| Middlesex University in Dubai | AED 60,000 – AED 90,000 (INR 13 Lakhs-20 Lakhs) |
| The University of Wollongong Dubai | AED 89,670- AED 141,750 (INR 20 Lakhs- 32 Lakhs) |
| American University in Dubai (AUD) | AED 1,65,096 (INR 37 Lakhs) |
| Hult International Business School Dubai | AED 1,71,594.79 (INR 37.5 Lakhs) |
| Khalifa University | AED 1,80,000 (INR 40 Lakhs) |
| United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) | AED 72000 (INR 16 Lakhs) |
| University of Birmingham Dubai | AED 62,476.69 (INR 13 Lkahs) |
| Zayed University | AED 75,780 (INR 17 Lakhs) |
| University of Dubai (UD) | AED 61,816.25 (INR 18 Lakhs) |
| Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI) | AED 98,000 (INR 22 Lakhs) |
Intakes in Dubai Universities
Deciding which intake to choose is one of the initial choices when preparing to study at the best universities in the UAE from India. The initial step is to determine which intake you want to apply for. Dubai offers two opportunities for students to enrol: the Fall intake and the Spring intake. Selecting the intake that best fits your needs may be confusing. Consider aspects such as the availability of the desired program, your academic history, English language skills, entrance exam results, the university acceptance rate, employment prospects, and your eagerness to start the program while making a choice.
Fall Intake
September intake is another term for Fall Intake. Like many other nations, the autumn intake is the central intake period for international students in universities in the UAE. All universities provide a wide range of classes during this enrollment period. Additionally, financial assistance is offered to students enrolling in the fall semester in the UAE.
Application Timeline:
- Start Research: April (ideally) – Begin exploring universities and programs well in advance.
- Take Exams: June (target) – Ensure you complete required exams like IELTS or TOEFL by this time.
- Prepare Documents: Gather your Statement of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation, and application essays, and initiate your visa application process.
Spring Intake
The January intake for international students at universities in the UAE is also called the Spring intake. Spring Intake serves as an additional intake period for the UAE. Students who could not apply during the fall semester can apply for this intake. However, the number of courses available in the spring intake in the best universities in the UAE is lower compared to the fall intake at universities.
Application Timeline:
- Research & Shortlisting: Complete university research and finalize your choices by August.
- Exams: Take English proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL) and other required exams by September/October.
- Application Focus: After exams, concentrate on submitting your application and fulfilling student visa requirements.
Also read – Masters in Computer Science in Ireland
Top Courses in Universities of Dubai
Choosing the right Master’s program in the best universities in the UAE can be difficult because of the various choices offered in various fields. Yet, Indian students lean towards choosing popular STEM courses like engineering, data science, business administration, architecture, design, and computer science. Below is a list of the courses to study in Dubai:
| Universities | Top Courses |
|---|---|
| University of Dubai (UD) | Statistics and data science, Principles of manufacturing, data, economics, and policy design. |
| Dubai Law School | Financial crimes and money laundering, International business law |
| Middlesex University Dubai | MSc in Data Science, MSc in Financial Technology, MSc in banking and finance |
| Zayed University | Master of Education (MEd), Master in Diplomacy and International Affairs, Master of Arts in Communication |
| Khalifa University | MTech in Electrical Engineering, M.Eng. Health, Safety and Environment Engineering, M.Sc. Materials Science and Engineering, M.Sc. Civil and Infrastructural Engineering |
| University of Wollongong in Dubai | MSc in Finance, Master of Nursing, Masters in Dubai |
Scholarships in Dubai Universities
The best universities in the UAE often work with major industries and companies, offering scholarship programs that give students practical hands-on experience and the chance to secure job opportunities with these entities. Moreover, universities in Dubai provide scholarships in different areas to assist students globally in joining their campuses for education. Listed below are the scholarships offered by educational institutions and the government:
| Scholarships | Eligibility | |
|---|---|---|
| Al Qasimi Foundation’s Doctoral Research Grants | PhD students in good standing at accredited universities with completed coursework (TOEFL 85 or 6.5 IELTS for non-native speakers) are eligible for dissertation field research. | The grant covers all UAE field research expenses (flights, housing, living stipend, & research support). |
| ICT International Fund | Students from the United Arab Emirates are studying IT or Electrical Engineering at the University of Dubai. | Full scholarships from the ICT Fund to pursue degrees in Information Technology or Electrical Engineering. |
| Academic Merit Scholarship - University of Wollongong | Enrol in a minimum of 3 subjects (mandatory) in Autumn, Winter, and Spring Maintain a cumulative WAM (Weighted average mark) of ≥75 (50% scholarship) | Financial coverage for 15% to 50% of tuition fees per trimester. |
| The Middlesex University of Dubai Scholarships | Scholarships are awarded at the beginning of your first year. Changes in circumstances after four weeks won't affect your initial award Regular attendance, participation, and academic progress are required to keep your scholarship. | A grant of 10% on all postgraduate programs. |
| University of Birmingham, Dubai Scholarships | A student must receive an offer for entry to a full or part-time UG or PG program to be eligible for a scholarship | Candidates will get a tuition fee waiver of 50%. |
Also read – Get High Paying Jobs in Ireland
Application Process in Dubai Universities
Dubai is a developing nation, so students may need help accessing important information compared to countries like the UK and Canada. Below is a detailed process for international students who want to study in the best universities in the UAE, outlining each step in the admissions process:
- Identify your goals: What field do you want to study? What kind of career do you want? Research programs in top universities in Dubai for masters that align with your interests and plans.
- Explore universities: Dubai has several branch campuses of international universities. Research each university’s reputation, faculty expertise, and student support services. Shortlist universities that meet your needs and preferences.
- Check eligibility: Ensure you meet the academic requirements (transcripts, standardized tests) and any program-specific prerequisites.
- Consider deadlines: Universities in Dubai may have different application deadlines. Note these down to ensure timely submissions.
- Application form: Download and complete the application form carefully. Pay attention to details and follow instructions.
- Academic transcripts: Request official transcripts from your previous institutions to be sent directly to the universities.
- Passport and photograph: Ensure your passport is valid for your studies and submit a recent passport-sized photograph.
- Standardized tests: Take required tests like SAT, GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS, or C1 Advanced, depending on the program and university.
- Additional documents (optional): Prepare a strong resume, recommendation letters from teachers or employers (if required), and a statement of purpose outlining your academic goals and reasons for choosing the program (if applicable).
- Application fees: Pay the application fees as instructed by each university and keep the receipts for your records.
- University websites: Visit the websites of your shortlisted universities. Each university might have a different application portal or process. Please familiarize yourself with their specific requirements and instructions.
- Submit applications: Submit your completed application forms, transcripts, test scores, and other required documents by the deadlines.
Additional Tips
- Contact the universities: If you have any questions regarding the application process, don’t hesitate to contact your chosen universities.
- Prepare for interviews: Some universities may require interviews as part of the application process. Research common interview questions and practice your responses beforehand.
- Explore scholarships: Research scholarships offered by the universities or external organizations that can help finance your studies in Dubai.
Document Checklist for Dubai Universities
Here’s the information on the required documents for a student visa in a more organized format:
Essential Documents:
- Passport: A valid passport with sufficient validity to cover your studies.
- University Acceptance Letter: An official acceptance letter from your chosen university in Dubai.
- Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs meet the specifications outlined by the visa application process.
Academic Documents:
- High School Diploma/Transcripts: A letter of acceptance or graduation certificate from your high school (for undergraduate programs).
- Bachelor’s Degree (if applicable): Proof of a bachelor’s degree (transcripts and diploma) if applying for postgraduate programs.
Financial Documents:
- Bank Statements: Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses for your entire study duration.
- Tuition and Visa Fee Receipts: Copies of receipts for your first year’s tuition fees and visa fees.
Accommodation Documents:
- Tenancy Agreement: A copy of your tenancy agreement for your accommodation in Dubai.
- Student Housing Confirmation (if applicable): A confirmation letter from your university stating that you’ll be residing in student housing.
Additional Documents:
- Medical Certificate: A health certificate issued by a licensed medical professional, as required by the visa application process.
Remember:
- Always check the official website of the Dubai visa application process or your chosen university for the latest and most accurate document requirements.
- Ensure all documents are translated into English or Arabic if necessary.
Jobs in Dubai
Apart from the popular industries in Dubai, various job posts are in high demand as they need a skillset and provide a reasonable salary range. These jobs in Dubai for Indians are listed below, along with their salaries:
| Job Post | Annual Salary in AED and INR |
|---|---|
| Event Manager | AED 236,000 (INR 53.33 lakhs) |
| Civil Engineer | AED 152,000 (INR 34.35 lakhs) |
| Hotel Manager | AED 225504 (INR 51 lakhs) |
| Architect | AED 184,000 (INR 41.58 lakhs) |
| UI/UX Designer | AED 116,000 (INR 26.17 lakhs) |
| Software Engineer | AED 264,000 (INR 59.66 lakhs) |
| Supply Chain Analyst | AED 122,890 (INR 27.77 lakhs) |
Student Visa
International students in Dubai require a student visa to pursue their studies. This visa is valid for one year and must be renewed annually until program completion. The process involves an initial “Student Entry Permit” followed by a “Student Residence Visa” upon arrival in the UAE. Universities typically require acceptance of the admission offer, fulfillment of academic requirements, and financial documentation before visa processing begins.
Students undergo medical and biometric testing after entering Dubai with an entry visa. If successful, they receive the residence visa within 15-20 working days. Failing these tests results in repatriation. Additionally, universities mandate health insurance coverage for students throughout their studies.
Here is a summary of the employment visa types in Dubai:
| Visa type | Duration | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Golden visa | 5-10 years | Investors, entrepreneurs, scholars, exceptional students and alumni, and frontline workers can qualify for the Golden Visa. |
| Green Visa | 5 years | Salary of not less than AED 15,000 per month, Valid employment contract, Proof of a bachelor’s degree or a diploma |
| Standard Work Visa | 2 years | Employed in the private and government sector |
Conclusion
The best universities in the UAE present an attractive opportunity for international students seeking a lively and fulfilling educational experience overseas. A thriving economy means promising job prospects are available after completing your studies, particularly in sectors such as IT. The diverse setting promotes individual development. Dubai’s excellent quality of life and stability in politics, coupled with top-notch entertainment choices, guarantee a diverse student experience. In conclusion, Dubai’s exceptional academic quality, diverse cultures, and vibrant lifestyle make it a top choice for students worldwide to pursue studies.
FAQs
How much does studying in Dubai cost?
A Bachelor’s degree costs around 37,500 and 70,000 AED annually, and a master’s degree costs around 55,000 and 75,000 AED annually.
Can I do part-time work in Dubai while studying?
Yes, you can work part-time in Dubai if you meet all the requirements. A student can work upto 15 hours per week during their course work.
Is Dubai expensive for international students?
Yes, Dubai is an expensive city for international students, but with the help of scholarships and part-time jobs, you can manage your finances well.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
