Dubai has become a popular place for higher education, offering a list of best universities, modern facilities, and a diverse cultural environment. For people struggling to get into countries like the USA or UK, Dubai is a great alternative. Its universities are highly respected, and the admission process is simpler. The city’s location, growing economy, and opportunities for students make it a good choice for those who want to relocate quickly and study.
This guide will help you learn about some of the best universities in Dubai, such as the American University in Dubai, the British University in Dubai, and the University of Wollongong in Dubai. You’ll also discover their programs, costs, admission steps, and job opportunities. Start exploring today and plan for a brighter future in one of the world’s most exciting cities.
List of Best Universities in Dubai
1. American University in Dubai (AUD)
The American University in Dubai is known for its strong programs in Business Administration, Engineering, Communication and Design. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees such as Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication, and Master of Business Administration (MBA) and the university emphasizes an international perspective and provides students with modern facilities and a diverse community.
2. British University in Dubai (BUiD)
The British University in Dubai specializes in Sustainable Design, Project Management, and Education. However, it offers programs like MSc in Construction Law and Dispute Resolution, MSc in Sustainable Design of the Built Environment, and Doctor of Education. Moreover, the university is affiliated with leading UK institutions, ensuring a robust curriculum and global recognition.
3. University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD)
This university is known for its Business, IT, and Engineering programs. However, some of the popular offerings include Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Information Technology Management, and Bachelor of Engineering (Honors) in Civil Engineering. Furthermore, UOWD follows an Australian curriculum and provides strong career support through industry connections.
4. Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Heriot-Watt University specializes in programs in Finance, Data Science, and Architecture. It provides degrees such as MSc in Business Analytics, MSc in Data Science, and Bachelor of Architecture. The university focuses on employability, preparing students for competitive job markets.
5. Middlesex University Dubai
Middlesex University provides programs in Law, Psychology, and Business Administration. Students can pursue degrees such as LLB (Honors), MSc in Applied Psychology, and BA in International Business. The university is globally recognized and promotes a multicultural learning environment.
6. University of Dubai
This institution offers excellent programs in Business, IT, and Law. It offers notable courses such as Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Information Systems, and Bachelor of Law (LLB). By maintaining strong ties with the local industry, offering students practical exposure.
7. Murdoch University Dubai
Murdoch University excels in Media, Criminology, and Cybersecurity. Furthermore, Programs include Bachelor of Communication, Bachelor of Criminology, and Master of Information Technology in Cybersecurity and Forensics. The Australian curriculum is designed to provide global career opportunities.
8. Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Dubai
MAHE Dubai specializes in Engineering, Biotechnology, and Interior Design. Programs such as BTech in Mechanical Engineering, MSc in Biotechnology, and Bachelor of Design in Interior Design are highly sought after. The university offers quality education at an affordable cost.
9. SP Jain School of Global Management
SP Jain focuses on Global Business and Management, offering programs like Bachelor of Business Administration, Global MBA, and Master of Global Business. It is ranked among the top business institutions and integrates real-world learning into its curriculum.
10. Canadian University Dubai (CUD)
CUD offers programs in Architecture, Marketing, and Environmental Sciences. However, Notable courses include Bachelor of Architecture, Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, and Bachelor of Environmental Health Management. and the university provides transfer options to Canadian institutions, broadening career prospects.
11. The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management
This academy specializes in Hospitality and Tourism studies, offering degrees such as Bachelor of Business Administration in Hospitality Management and postgraduate diplomas in International Hospitality Management. Students benefit from industry-focused training and internships.
12. Dubai Medical College
Dubai Medical College specializes in Medical and Health Sciences. Programs include Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). Furthermore, the college is recognized for producing highly skilled and competent medical professionals.
13. Amity University Dubai
Amity University offers a range of programs in Engineering, Animation, and Fashion. Moreover, Courses like BTech in Computer Science, Bachelor of Animation, and Bachelor of Design in Fashion are popular among students and the university focuses on innovation and industry collaborations.
14. University of Birmingham Dubai
The University of Birmingham provides programs in Business, Education, and Computer Science. It designs degrees such as MSc in International Business, BA in Education, and BSc in Computer Science are designed to equip students with essential skills. As part of a Russell Group university, it delivers a research-driven curriculum.
15. Curtin University Dubai
Curtin University is known for IT, Business, and Media Studies. However, programs include Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing, Bachelor of Information Technology, and Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication and the university brings Australian excellence to Dubai, offering students global career pathways.
16. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai
RIT Dubai excels in Engineering, Computing, and Business with courses such as Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Technologies, and MBA in Business Analytics provide hands-on learning experiences.
17. Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (Campus in Dubai)
This university specializes in Humanities, Arts, and Law. Programs include Bachelor in Philosophy, Sociology, and Politics, as well as Master’s in International Business Law. The institution combines French academic traditions with a global outlook.
18. Synergy University Dubai
Synergy University focuses on Hospitality, Digital Economy, and Global Management. However, programs include Bachelor of Hospitality Management, Master of Global Business, and courses in Blockchain and FinTech and the university offers affordable options for career-focused education.
19. Al Ghurair University
Al Ghurair University offers programs in Business, Engineering, and Media. Furthermore, popular degrees include Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, and Bachelor of Arts in Media and Mass Communication. Its modern facilities ensure a quality learning environment.
20. Zayed University
Zayed University specializes in Communication, IT, and Education. Programs such as Bachelor of Science in Multimedia Design, Bachelor of IT, and Bachelor of Education prepare students for various career paths. The government-owned institution is research-driven and offers state-of-the-art facilities.
How much does it cost to study in Dubai?
The cost of studying in Dubai includes tuition fees and living expenses, which vary depending on your chosen university, program, and lifestyle.
For tuition fees, undergraduate programs typically cost between AED 37,500 and AED 70,000 per year. However, the exact amount depends on the program and the university. Specialized fields such as engineering or business tend to have higher fees, especially at top-tier universities like the American University in Dubai or the University of Wollongong in Dubai.
Postgraduate programs are generally more expensive, ranging from AED 55,000 to AED 100,000 per year. Advanced degrees like an MBA or research-intensive fields often fall at the higher end of this range due to their global recognition and specialized training. Many universities offer payment plans to make it easier for students to manage these costs.
Living Cost in Dubai
Living expenses in Dubai also depend on factors such as accommodation preferences and spending habits. If you choose on-campus housing, you can expect to pay between AED 2,500 and AED 5,000 per month, which often includes utilities. Off-campus housing costs are higher, ranging from AED 3,500 to AED 8,000 per month, and usually exclude utility bills, which can add AED 500 to AED 1,000 monthly. Transportation costs vary, with public transport options like the metro and buses costing around AED 300 to AED 500 per month. Food expenses depend on whether you cook at home or eat out, with monthly groceries costing AED 800 to AED 1,200, while dining out can range from AED 30 per meal at affordable restaurants to AED 200 or more at upscale venues. Additional expenses such as entertainment, gym memberships, and health insurance could add AED 1,000 or more to your monthly budget.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Despite these costs, Dubai offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to international students. It offers merit-based scholarships for high-performing students, need-based financial aid, and sponsorships. Institutions like the University of Dubai and Canadian University Dubai are known for their robust scholarship programs, making education in Dubai more accessible.
While the overall expense of studying and living in Dubai can be significant, the high quality of education, cultural diversity, and excellent career opportunities often justify the investment. With proper planning and support, studying in Dubai can be an enriching and valuable experience.
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