- Master’s programmes in Dubai cost between AED 40,000 and AED 128,000 (₹9.7L–₹31L) annually at affordable institutions.
- MBA programmes are the most widely offered master’s degree across Dubai’s affordable university sector.
- Manipal Academy Dubai offers one of the most affordable master’s degrees starting at around AED 40,000 (₹9.7L) per year.
Dubai has established itself as one of the more affordable places to pursue higher education in the Middle East. The country offers masters programmes at tuition fees that are significantly lower than popular destinations like the UK, USA, and Australia. Students benefit from cost-effective university options, flexible payment plans, and lower overall living expenses compared to other global study hubs.
According to the latest data from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) released in May 2025, 42,026 students are enrolled at 41 private higher education institutions in Dubai, the highest enrollment ever recorded.
In this blog, we will explore the top 8 cheapest universities in Dubai for master’s programs, their fee structures, popular degrees, and admission requirements for international students.
Top Cheapest Universities in Dubai for Masters Programs
At Dubai’s more affordable universities, master’s programs generally cost between AED 40,000 and AED 128,000 per year. The following institutions offer quality postgraduate education with competitive tuition fees.
| University Name | QS World University Rankings 2026 | Annual Tuition Fees (Master’s Programs) |
|---|---|---|
| Zayed University | #595 | AED 75,000 – 128,000 (₹18.2L – ₹31L) |
| American University in Dubai (AUD) | #678 | AED 65,000 – 110,000 (₹15.7L – ₹26.7L) |
| University of Dubai | #851–900 | AED 50,000 – 70,000 (₹12L – ₹16.9L) |
| Middlesex University Dubai | — | AED 74,000 – 114,000 (₹17.9L – ₹27.6L) |
| University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) | — | AED 55,000 – 100,000 (₹13.3L – ₹24.2L) |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | — | AED 60,000 – 70,000 (₹14.5L – ₹16.9L) |
| Amity University Dubai | — | AED 50,000 – 75,000 (₹12L – ₹18.2L) |
| Manipal Academy of Higher Education — Dubai | — | AED 40,000 – 55,000 (₹9.7L – ₹13.3L) |
1. Zayed University
About: Government-supported public institution founded in 1998. Ranked #595 in QS World University Rankings 2026. The university has campuses in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Top 5 Master’s Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Finance
- Master of Arts in Communication and Media Sciences
- Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Master of Science in Human Nutrition
2. American University in Dubai (AUD)
About: Established in 1995 with support from Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, it was the first private university in the UAE. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), one of seven regional accrediting bodies in the United States. Ranked #678 in QS World University Rankings 2026.
Top 5 Master’s Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Innovation Management
- Master of Arts in Translation and Interpreting
- Master of Education in TESOL
- Master of Architecture
3. University of Dubai
About: Established in 1997 by Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Ranked #851-900 in QS World University Rankings 2026. The university holds AACSB accreditation for its business school.
Top 5 Master’s Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Information Technology Management
- Master of Science in Quality Management
- Master of Laws (LL.M.)
- Master of Science in Data Science
4. Middlesex University Dubai
About: First overseas campus of London-based Middlesex University, established in 2005. It is the largest British higher education provider in Dubai with a 5-star KHDA (Knowledge and Human Development Authority) rating.
Top 5 Master’s Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Engineering Management
- Master of Arts in International Business Management
- Master of Science in Banking and Finance
- Master of Science in Digital Marketing and Analytics
5. University of Wollongong Dubai (UOWD)
About: First Australian university in the UAE, established in 1993. The parent campus in Australia is ranked #184 in QS World University Ranking 2026.
Top 5 Master’s Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Business Analytics
- Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Master of Science in Applied Finance
- Master of Engineering Management
6. Heriot-Watt University Dubai
About: First overseas UK university campus in Dubai International Academic City, established in 2005. The parent university is ranked #287 in QS 2026 with a 5-star KHDA rating.
Top 5 Master’s Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Construction Project Management
- Master of Science in Renewable Energy Engineering
- Master of Science in Data Science
- Master of Science in Civil Engineering and Construction Management
7. Amity University Dubai
About: Opened in 2011, UAE’s largest private campus (700,000 sq ft) located in Dubai International Academic City. The university holds CAA (Commission for Academic Accreditation) and KHDA accreditation. Not ranked in global QS rankings.
Top 5 Master’s Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Data Science
- MBA in Business Analytics
- MBA in Logistics & Supply Chain Management
- Master of Education (M.Ed.)
8. Manipal Academy of Higher Education – Dubai Campus
About: Established in 2000 as a branch of India’s Manipal Academy. The Dubai campus holds a 5-star KHDA rating and offers over 50 programs. Not ranked in global QS rankings.
Top 5 Master’s Programs:
- MBA (International Business)
- Master of Technology in Computer Science & Engineering (Information Security)
- Master of Science in Applied Psychology
- Master of Technology in Civil Engineering (Construction Engineering & Management)
- Master of Science in Medical Biotechnology
Admission Requirements for Masters Programs in Dubai
International students must meet specific academic and English language requirements when applying to Dubai universities.
General Academic Requirements:
- Recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA: 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale (55–70% or 6.0–7.5 CGPA)
- MBA programs typically require 2-5 years of relevant work experience
*Verify eligibility for your favourite university using our CGPA Calculator
English Proficiency Requirements (varies by university):
- IELTS Academic: Overall band 6.0 – 6.5 (no band below 5.5)
- TOEFL iBT: 80 – 90
- PTE Academic: 51 – 65
- Duolingo: 105 – 120
- Join our FREE IELTS Bootcamp course for targeted practice across Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, with real-time feedback on answers. Register today!
Many universities waive English tests for students who completed bachelor’s degrees in English-medium institutions with appropriate documentation.
Monthly Cost of Living in Dubai for Indian Students
Here’s a complete breakdown of living expenses in Dubai for Indian students. These costs are based on shared accommodation and moderate lifestyle choices, with total monthly expenses ranging from AED 4,700 to AED 8,700 (approximately ₹1 – 2L).
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (AED) | Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Shared room) | 3000 – 4500 | 73,650 – 1L |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas, AC) | 300 – 600 | 7,365 – 14,730 |
| Internet & Mobile | 200 – 350 | 4,910 – 8,592 |
| Groceries & Food | 700 – 1200 | 17,185 – 29,460 |
| Transportation (Student Nol Card) | 200 – 350 | 4,910 – 8,592 |
| Personal & Miscellaneous | 300 – 700 | 7,365 – 17,185 |
| Total Monthly Cost | 4,700 – 8,700 | 1L – 2L |
Key Takeaways
Dubai’s reputed universities offer quality master’s education at competitive rates, with annual fees ranging from AED 40,000 to AED 128,000 (₹9.7L–₹31L). Affordable institutions in Dubai provide globally recognised degrees, including government-supported Zayed University (#595 QS Rankings) and internationally accredited campuses such as the American University in Dubai and Heriot-Watt University Dubai.
International students benefit from diverse program options across business, engineering, and technology fields. Many universities also waive English proficiency tests for students from English-medium institutions. Monthly living costs remain manageable at AED 4,700 to AED 8,700 (₹1 – 2L), supported by student discounts on transportation and shared accommodation.
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FAQs
Do Dubai universities require work experience for MBA admissions?
Most MBA programmes in Dubai require 2-5 years of relevant professional work experience for admission.
What is the monthly cost of living for students in Dubai?
International students spend approximately AED 4,700 to AED 8,700 (approximately ₹1 – 2L) monthly on accommodation, food, and transport.
Which affordable Dubai universities are ranked in QS World Rankings 2026?
Zayed University (QS #595), American University in Dubai (QS #678), and University of Dubai (QS #851-900) hold QS rankings.
Can international students work part-time in Dubai during their master's degree?
Yes, international students can work part-time with university and employer approval, typically limited to 15-20 hours weekly.
Is a student visa mandatory for studying master's programmes in Dubai?
Yes, all international students require a UAE student visa sponsored by their enrolled university, valid for 12 months.
Can I stay in Dubai after completing my master's degree?
Graduates can apply for a job-seeker visa valid for 60, 90, or 120 days to find employment in the UAE.
What is the typical duration of master's programmes in Dubai?
Most master’s programmes in Dubai span 1-2 years depending on the field and full-time or part-time enrolment.
Do I need to learn Arabic to study in Dubai?
No, all master’s programmes at international universities in Dubai are taught entirely in English.
Are there campus accommodation options at Dubai universities?
Some Dubai universities offer on-campus housing (like Amity, Heriot-Watt, and RIT Dubai), whilst others provide assistance finding nearby accommodation.
What is the intake period for master's programmes in Dubai?
Dubai universities typically follow September and January intakes, with some offering additional May or summer term admissions.
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.
