Last Updated on July 10, 2025
The UAE is an emerging destination for study abroad aspirants, especially from Southeast Asia. With a well-established education system and world-class university infrastructure, at par with Western universities, students are opting to study in UAE more than ever. Moreover, the affordability of the place adds to the attraction. Fast modernisation and international affiliation are leading international students from places like India to explore diverse opportunities in this part of the Middle East.
In this guide, you get to explore educational opportunities in the UAE, which comprises top universities, their top courses, eligibility, and scholarship options.
Study in UAE – Top 7 Universities For International Students
Those eager to study in UAE have already decided to enrich their careers, through academic excellence and multicultural experiences. The UAE indeed is an educational hub hosting some of the most popular and globally known universities. The top universities in UAE for international students are committed to provide an educational environment which is equivalent to Western universities.
Let us take you through the top universities, with global rankings. This will help you make a quick decision, to realize your study abroad goals in the UAE.
| University Name | Best Course Offered | QS World Ranking – 2024 | Times Higher Education Ranking – 2023 |
| Khalifa University | Engineering | 230 | 351-400 |
| University of Sharjah | Health Sciences/ Medicine | 465 | 251-300 |
| UAE University | Research Fellowship | 290 | 251-300 |
| Zayed University | Humanities, Social Sciences, History, Philosophy, Natural Sciences, Math | 701-710 | 501-600 |
| Abu Dhabi University | Legal | 580 | 301-350 |
| American University of Sharjah | Science | 364 | 601-800 |
| Canadian University of Dubai | Business Studies and Arts | 523 | 301-400 |
Best Courses to Study in UAE With Duration And Fee
For students looking for courses unavailable in their home country, the UAE offers a wide range of choices. The courses have been designed in sync with global demands, so as to assist students in landing a job after completion of the same. The country’s top universities offer courses for the rapidly evolving market. Here you can take a quick glance at the best courses to study in UAE.
| Courses | Duration | Average Yearly Fees (AED) |
| Bachelor of Humanities – English Literature | 36 months | 16,700 |
| Bachelor of Science – Petroleum Engineering | 48 months | 40,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – AI & ML | 36 months | 17,500 |
| Bachelor of Chemical Engineering – Process Control and Automation | 36 months | 17,800 |
| Master of Architecture – Sustainable Architecture | 12 months | 15,600 |
| Master of Business Administration – Finance | 12 months | 18,900 |
| Master of Science in Data Science – AI & ML | 12 months | 15,600 |
Cost of Study in UAE For International Students
With the fees in the more affordable category, those who are looking for study in UAE for Indian students, will find this lucrative. The cost is often dependent on multiple factors, like the category of university, ranking, tuition fees, living costs, and other miscellaneous fees. When compared against universities in the US, UK or Australia, the costs come out to be substantially lower.
Here is an approximate estimate of the cost of studying in UAE.
Educational Level:
- Undergraduate – 20,000 AED/ annually
- Postgraduate – 25,000 AED/ annually
- Doctorate – 28,000 AED/ annually
Those students who need more information on the costs must connect with a study abroad consultant in India.
Cost of Living in UAE
For international students planning to study in UAE, living costs often comprise a huge chunk of the study abroad expenses. From accommodation, to transport, food, and entertainment costs, a proper knowledge of the breakup will help you plan properly.
| Expenses | Average Cost Per Month (AED) |
| Accommodation Rent | 1,700 |
| Electricity, Water, Gas | 200 |
| Internet | 70 |
| Mobile | 50 |
| Groceries | 350 |
| Restaurant/ Dining Out | 250 |
| Transport | 60 |
| Health Insurance | 90 |
| Entertainment | 150 |
Eligibility for Studying in UAE
Those intending to study in UAE must adhere to the prerequisites to gain admission to one of the renowned universities. It is very important for global students to grasp the requirements and eligibility criteria for a seamless admission procedure.
Here you can find a detailed breakdown of the study in UAE eligibility criteria.
| Graduate Diploma | Bachelors’ Degree | Postgraduate Degree | Doctorate |
| Bachelor’s from a renowned university with min 60% in 12th, IELTS/TOEFL scores, Work experience, and Academic transcripts | Bachelor’s from a renowned university with min 60% in 12th, IELTS/ TOEFL scores, Work experience, and Academic transcripts | Bachelor’s Degree, Entrance examination results – GRE/ GMAT(if applicable), IELTS/ TOEFL scores, SOPs, LORs | High school pass, Entrance examination results – SAT/ ACT ( if applicable), IELTS/ TOEFL scores, SOPs, LORs, Academic transcripts |
*** TOEFL – Minimum score 80.
UAE University Admission Process
Students who require further assistance in navigating through the eligibility information hurdles must get in touch with a study abroad consultant in Delhi. Preparation is very crucial for those looking to study in UAE, and apart from meeting eligibility criteria, you have to compile the documents properly and send them across to the university at the right time. The universities in the UAE have the following admission intakes.
Admission Intakes
| Session | Intake |
| Fall | August |
| Spring | January |
| Summer | May |
A study abroad consultant will always have such information handy for the students.
Apart from sticking to the above intake schedules and deadlines, international students from India must keep all the documents sorted at all times, months in advance. You should be able to produce all the original copies and photocopies, on demand, to the university officials.
After you submit all the documents for admission with the application form and required fees, you will get an acceptance letter. This letter further paves the way for you to apply for scholarships in UAE universities.
Scholarships in UAE for Indian students
Those of you who are exploring scholarships in UAE for Indian students will be in for some good news. Recognizing the importance of global talent upliftment, the UAE ministry has curated many scholarships for international students to reduce the cost of education.
Those willing to embark on this study abroad journey will find this information extremely helpful.
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount (AED) |
| Sheikh Zayed Full Scholarship | Academically sound | Full Tuition Fee |
| UAE Cultural Scholarship | Active in ECA | 40% Tuition Discount |
| Future Leaders Scholarship | Leadership potential | 30% Tuition Discount |
| Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship | Merit-based | 50% Tuition Discount |
| Research Excellence Scholarship | Published research | 60% Tuition Discount |
UAE Study Visa Requirements For Indian Students
- A valid passport
- University admission letter
- Accommodation proof
- Passport-size photographs
- Health certificate
- Parental consent
- Financial statements
- Scholarship letter
- Health Insurance
- Local Police Clearance
Reasons To Study in UAE For Indian Students
Today, the UAE stands atop many other global universities, owing to its commitment to academic excellence and technological advancements. The country also bestows Indian students with a plethora of opportunities in the field of education, research, and PR. If you are aiming to study in UAE, this is the best time to do it. Get access to diverse scholarships and grants to lessen the burden of world-class education costs.
Here are the top reasons why you have made the right decision to explore study opportunities in the UAE.
- Internationally accredited and affiliated institutions offering world-class education
- Multicultural environment for personal transformation
- Affordable education which is equivalent to western universities
- Courses offered in the English language, making study in the UAE feasible for Indian students
- A stable political environment for international students in the UAE
- The government’s commitment to provide safety and security
How Admissify Can Help
Admissify can assist you in studying in the UAE, with a global team of advisors spread across the globe. They have the right knowledge which can propel you towards the best career. From admission eligibility to documentation and entrance examination preparation, you will have every task sorted out. Moreover, those who are looking for scholarships will also get the available options listed out. The study abroad consultants in Delhi will also help you with all kinds of paperwork required to migrate to the foreign land for educational purposes.
Conclusion
This study guide in the UAE will help you to ascertain the right choices in terms of courses which can help in propelling your career forward. Additionally, the complete information listed above will help you to plan and prepare way ahead of the others. You will be able to get authentic information regarding campus life when you work together with a study abroad advisor today, like Admissify. Book their free counselling today to avail this opportunity.
FAQs
Can Indian students work while studying in the UAE?
Yes, you can work part-time while studying in the UAE. You may need a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and permission from your university.
How does the ministry ensure the safety of international students?
The ministry ensures safety and security of international students in the UAE. It provides emergency services, healthcare, and legal awareness for the wellbeing of the students.
What types of scholarships are available in the UAE?
There are various scholarship options like Academic Excellence Scholarships, Master Research Teaching Scholarships and Multicultural Student Scholarships as well.
What is the timeline/ deadline for applications to be submitted for UAE universities?
The application deadlines start at least 6-7 months in advance and closes 2-3 months prior to the start of the session.
Is the knowledge of Arabic mandatory for studying in the UAE?
No it is not necessary.
Abhrajita Mondal, is a Content Writer who has dabbled in numerous genres including education since the last five years, and has a deep interest in Holistic Wellness & Lifestyle practices. She is an Ex-HR with over 10 years of corporate experience. For a voracious reader and consumer of information, which finds a way of expression through writing, she does that with elan. Abhrajita loves to travel and is a complete foodie. She has a thirst for the unknown, and loves to read esoteric books.
