Study in UAE
Study in the UAE offers a unique opportunity to experience world-class education in a multicultural environment. Applicants can pursue education at various levels, including schools, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Here are some key requirements for studying in the UAE:
- English language proficiency certificate
- Health insurance
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Clean criminal record
- Submission of prior academic credentials
Tuition fees in the UAE vary depending on the level of study and the chosen university. On average, tuition costs for bachelor’s and master’s degrees range from $7,500 to $21,000.
However, studying in the UAE does not directly lead to permanent residency. Graduates typically need to enter the workforce or invest in the UAE to apply for residency.
For personalized guidance, consider consulting with the experts at the Malekpour Immigration Institute to explore your study options in the UAE.
Is the cost of studying in the UAE high?
The cost of studying in schools and universities in the UAE is generally considered relatively high.
Do degrees in fields like nursing, medicine, pharmacy, psychology, etc., require equivalency?
Yes, if you wish to continue your education or work in the UAE with these degrees, equivalency is required.
Are universities in Dubai and the UAE better than those in other countries for studying?
Since Arab countries like the UAE do not grant permanent residency or passports even after years of employment post-graduation, it is recommended to consider applying for admission to universities in better options, such as European countries.
Exceptional Study Opportunities in Dubai!
Students can study programs such as medicine, dentistry, law, and more for one to two years at universities in the UAE (even online) and then transfer to top universities in the UK to continue their education under exceptional conditions, including the possibility of securing scholarships!
Studying in Schools in Dubai
The education system in Dubai consists of 6 years of primary education, followed by 6 years of middle school to earn a secondary diploma, and 3 years of high school (either general or technical/vocational) to receive a high school diploma.
Studying at Universities in UAE
Studying at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels in Dubai offers opportunities such as student work permits, the possibility to transfer to prestigious universities in the USA, UK, and Canada, as well as the option to search for a job after graduation and convert your student visa to a work visa.
Cost of Studying in Dubai
The annual tuition fees range between $7,500 and $21,000, depending on the field of study, university, and level of education.
You can also ask your questions in the comments section, and you will receive a response in a short time.
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Advantages of Studying in Dubai
There is no doubt that studying abroad in Dubai and obtaining a student visa for Dubai offer many advantages for international applicants.
One of the key benefits of studying in Dubai is the opportunity to transfer to prominent universities in Europe and the United States after completing a few semesters at universities in Dubai and the UAE. Below are other benefits of studying in Dubai:
- Affordable tuition fees
- The ability to work while studying
- Close proximity to Iran
- Quick processing of the student visa to work visa conversion
- Excellent educational facilities
- High cultural diversity
- Very low violent crime rates
- Exceptional hospitality from UAE citizens
Conditions for Studying in Dubai
The United Arab Emirates is a rapidly developing country, and correspondingly, the education system in its schools and universities aligns with this progress, offering opportunities for investors.
The official language of the country is Arabic, but to study at universities in the UAE, an IELTS score of 6 is required. The UAE is home to universities from countries like Canada, the United States, Finland, and others, which operate branches in the country.
Students can study for one or two semesters at these universities and then transfer to the main universities in the country of origin to continue their education. The key requirements for studying in Dubai are as follows:
Studying in English
Opportunity to join language courses
Scholarships available
Study at branches of top universities worldwide
Possibility of transferring to the home university
No specific age requirements for studying
Special Conditions for Studying in Dubai with Malekpour Institute
All individuals interested in studying at top universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, University College London, and Imperial College, in fields like medicine, dentistry, or law, now have the opportunity to study at some of the world’s best universities.
With the new program launched by the UK government through the Malekpour Institute, a unique opportunity has been provided for studying at universities in the UAE and Iraq. After one to two years of studying at these institutions, you can transfer to the UK for further studies.
You can even take courses and programs online for six months. This program for medicine and dentistry is limited to 20 to 30 students per year. Iranian students will also have the opportunity to receive scholarships, including full scholarships. The cost to begin these programs is only $5,000 to $10,000.
Studying in Dubai’s Schools and High Schools
Education in the UAE is mandatory from the age of 6, and it is carried out in three levels: elementary, middle, and high school.
Elementary School
At this level, students must study for 6 years and attend school until they are 12 years old. Education is free for Emirati students in public schools.
Boys and girls are separated in classes at public schools. The main subjects taught include religious studies, Arabic and English language, mathematics, and science. Art, physics, music, and physical education are also part of the elementary curriculum.
For girls, family studies are also taught. The academic year for elementary students lasts between 34 to 36 weeks.
Middle School
The middle school level lasts 3 years, starting from the age of 12 and continuing until the age of 15. This level is also mandatory. Students must complete courses such as Advanced Placement, SAT, IB Diploma, IGCSE, GCE Advanced level, or CBSE. At the end of this period, students receive a secondary diploma.
High School
There are two types of high school programs for students who migrate to Dubai for their education:
- Theoretical courses for obtaining a general diploma
- Technical and vocational courses for obtaining a technical diploma
Both programs last 3 years and continue from the age of 15 to 18. Below is a list of 10 international schools in the UAE:
| School Name | Education System | Language of Instruction | Admission Age | Annual Fees (USD) |
| Cambridge International School | British | English | 4-18 years | 25,340 |
| Australian International School | International | English | 3-18 years | 49,150 |
| Ajman Academy | International | English | 3-18 years | 55,770 |
| Uptown School | International | English | 3-18 years | 67,510 |
| Dubai School | International | English | 3-18 years | 90,970 |
| Al Mawakeb School | American | English | 4-18 years | 29,610 |
| Malarag High School | Indian | English | 6-18 years | 9,700 |
| Al Mazar School | British | English | 3-13 years | 29,020 |
| Jumeirah College | British | English | 11-18 years | 71,520 |
| New Millennium Al Khaleel School | Indian | English | 4-17 years | 28,280 |
These schools offer a wide range of educational systems, from British to American and Indian curricula, with varying fees and admission ages.
Studying in Universities in Dubai
Study in Dubai includes various educational levels, each offering a new world of experiences for prospective students.
Studying at universities in Dubai provides significant opportunities for students and can open doors to numerous career prospects and academic achievements. Below, the conditions for studying at different academic levels in Dubai universities are provided for your information.
Programs of Studying in UAE
The UAE offers a wide variety of academic majors across different fields. Here are some of the most common and popular majors:
| Field of Study | Majors |
| Business and Management | Business Administration (BBA/MBA), Marketing, Finance, Accounting, Entrepreneurship, HRM, Tourism and Hospitality Management |
| Engineering and Technology | Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, IT, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Cybersecurity |
| Health Sciences | Medicine (MBBS), Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Public Health, Biomedical Sciences, Nutrition and Dietetics, Veterinary Science |
| Law | Law (LLB), International Law, Commercial Law, Criminal Law, Human Rights Law |
| Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences | English Literature, History, Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, Philosophy, International Relations, Anthropology, Gender Studies |
| Science and Mathematics | Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Geology, Mathematics, Statistics |
| Education | Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Secondary Education, TESOL, Educational Leadership |
| Design and Architecture | Architecture, Interior Design, Graphic Design, Urban Planning, Fashion Design, Multimedia Design, Product Design |
| Media and Communication | Journalism, Public Relations, Digital Media, Mass Communication, Film and Television Production, Advertising, Broadcasting |
| Agriculture and Environmental Studies | Agricultural Science, Horticulture, Environmental Studies, Sustainability, Marine Biology |
| Tourism and Hospitality | Tourism Management, Hospitality Management, Event Management |
| Aviation | Aviation Management, Air Traffic Control, Aircraft Engineering, Pilot Training |
| Languages and Translation | Arabic Language and Literature, Translation and Interpreting, French, German, Spanish Language Studies, Applied Linguistics |
| Culinary Arts and Food Sciences | Culinary Arts, Pastry and Bakery Arts, Food Science and Technology |
| Sports Sciences and Physical Education | Sports Management, Physical Education, Kinesiology, Sports Science |
| Tourism and Event Management | Event Management, Tourism Studies |
| Fashion and Retail | Fashion Design, Retail Management |
Steps of Studying in UAE
Here are the general steps to study in the UAE:
- Research Universities & Programs – Choose an accredited program that suits your career goals.
- Check Admission Requirements – Review GPA, language proficiency, and any specific university criteria.
- Prepare Documents – Gather transcripts, language tests, passport, and recommendation letters.
- Submit Application – Apply online, pay fees, and submit necessary documents.
- Wait for Admission Decision – Wait for an offer, either conditional or unconditional.
- Secure Funding – Explore scholarships, financial aid, or personal funding.
- Apply for a Student Visa – Apply with the necessary documents like admission letter and financial proof.
- Arrange Accommodation – Decide between dormitories, rentals, or shared housing.
- Purchase Health Insurance – Ensure your health insurance meets university or UAE requirements.
- Book Your Flight – Organize travel arrangements to the UAE before your course starts.
- Register at University – Complete registration and attend orientation sessions.
- Start Studying – Begin your academic journey and manage coursework effectively.
- Work Opportunities – Check eligibility and apply for part-time jobs if allowed.
Documents Required for UAE Student Visa
One of the most important requirements for studying in Dubai and the UAE is the accurate collection of the necessary documents for obtaining a student visa. After receiving admission to a university, students must apply for a student visa for the UAE. The following documents are required for obtaining a student visa for the UAE:
Valid passport
Visa application form
Twelve passport-sized photos
University admission letter from the UAE
Bank statement confirming financial capacity
Proof of accommodation or dormitory arrangement
Copies of university payment receipts
Most recent educational certificate
Copy of the visa fee payment
Medical certificate
Processing time:
2 to 5 weeks
Cost:
1000 to 3000 AED for issuance – 500 AED for renewal.
Cost of Studying in Dubai
Due to the presence of universities from all over the world in the UAE, tuition fees can vary depending on the type of university and the academic program. However, it is important to note that the UAE is considered to have high tuition costs.
Students who receive scholarships in the UAE can minimize these expenses. On average, the cost of studying in the UAE is between $10,000 to $15,000 annually, and this amount can vary based on the university type, academic level, and field of study. Below are the tuition fees for some of the universities in the UAE:
| University | City | Bachelor’s Program | Master’s Program |
| American University of Sharjah | Sharjah | $21,000 | $19,000 |
| American University of Dubai | Dubai | $19,000 | $20,000 |
| United Arab Emirates University | Abu Dhabi | — | $9,000 |
| University of Sharjah | Sharjah | $11,000 | — |
| Abu Dhabi University | Abu Dhabi | $11,000 | $13,000 |
| University of Wollongong | Dubai | $12,500 | $12,500 |
| University of Science & Technology | Al Ain | $7,500 | $7,500 |
| Gulf Medical University | Ajman | $20,000 | $20,000 |
Living expenses in the UAE can vary significantly, and one of the most important factors influencing living costs is the individual’s lifestyle. Below is a list of the average costs for some essential items and services:
| Item | Price (USD) | Item | Price (USD) |
| 1.5L Bottle of Water | $0.49 | Monthly Taxi Fare | $54.45 |
| 1 kg of Rice | $1.59 | 1 kg of Potatoes | $0.86 |
| 1 kg of Meat | $8.42 | 1 kg of Onions | $0.64 |
| 1 kg of Chicken | $5.49 | 12 Eggs | $2.21 |
| 1 kg of Apples | $1.86 | 1-Bedroom Apartment Rental (Center) | $142.24 |
| 1 kg of Bananas | $1.50 | 1-Bedroom Apartment (85m²) Utilities | $159.26 |
| 1 kg of Tomatoes | $1.26 | Average Monthly Net Income | $256.88 |
Free Education in Dubai
There is no possibility of free education in Dubai, although many universities in Dubai are public, and the fees for them are relatively low. The availability of scholarships can also help reduce the costs.
UAE Scholarship Conditions
Studying in the UAE can be accompanied by scholarships. Many students wish to continue their education while minimizing or eliminating costs. The UAE offers various types of scholarships, and some countries that have universities in the UAE provide scholarships for their students. In addition to scholarships, student loans are also available in the UAE.
In this table, we will review the scholarships offered at Khalifa University in the UAE. Each university offers its own scholarships, such as the Nuclear Energy Science Scholarship or the National Security University Scholarship.
Additionally, countries with branches of their universities in the UAE may also offer unique scholarships for their students, such as the Indian University Scholarship in the UAE. However, it is important to note that the process of obtaining a scholarship in the UAE is not necessarily an easy one.
A limited number of full scholarships are available for students with outstanding performance at the university. Additionally, 20 students with an undergraduate GPA above 3.8 will be considered.
For new students:
- 100% tuition coverage for non-Emirati students.
For continuing students:
- 100% tuition coverage for non-Emirati students with a GPA above 3.
- 50% tuition coverage for non-Emirati students with a GPA between 2.99 and 2.5.
Studying in UAE without Ielts
Generally, studying in the UAE without IELTS is not an option unless you take an English language course. Most universities require proof of English proficiency, but if you don’t meet the requirement, you can:
- Enroll in an English Language Course: Many universities offer preparatory English courses to help you meet their language requirements.
- Conditional Admission: Some universities may offer conditional admission, allowing you to take the language course before beginning your degree program.
Without meeting the language proficiency requirements through IELTS or other tests, taking an English course would be the pathway to study in the UAE.
Top Universities in the UAE
Studying in the UAE may be of interest to many Iranian students. To help make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of 10 top universities in the UAE, their global rankings, and whether they are recognized by the Ministry of Science and Ministry of Health in Iran.
The UAE has 121 universities and colleges, some of which have campuses from countries such as the United States, Canada, Finland, South Korea, and more.
| University Name | Global Ranking | Ministry of Science Approval | Ministry of Health Approval |
| United Arab Emirates University | 1167 | Yes – Good | No |
| American University of Sharjah | 1764 | Yes – Good | No |
| University of Sharjah | 2050 | No | No |
| Zayed University | 2552 | No | No |
| NYU Abu Dhabi | 2740 | No | No |
| Higher Colleges of Technology | 2872 | No | No |
| Abu Dhabi University | 3507 | No | No |
| University of Wollongong in Dubai | 3646 | No | No |
| American University of Ras al Khaimah (AURAK) | 3927 | No | No |
| Ajman University | 4079 | No | No |
Obtaining Residency and Citizenship After Studying in Dubai
Many European countries and Canada offer students the opportunity to stay in the country for a year or six months after graduation. However, this opportunity is not readily available for students, particularly Iranian students, in the UAE.
After completing their studies in the UAE, students are usually required to either secure employment within a short period or change their student visa status through other means, such as investment, in order to obtain residence in the UAE.
Another point to consider is the issue of racial prejudice, particularly towards Iranians in the UAE, which may make it difficult for Iranians to obtain permanent residency and citizenship. Most individuals who choose to study in the UAE do so with the intention of gaining admission to universities that represent prestigious institutions from the UK, the US, Canada, and other countries.
After completing one or two years of studies at these universities, students can then apply to transfer to the main campuses in the home countries.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in the UAE
What is the annual tuition fee and the language of instruction at the Cambridge International School in the UAE?
The language of instruction at this school is English, and the annual tuition fee is 25,327 AED.
Is work allowed for a student who is studying at the undergraduate level in the UAE?
Yes, undergraduate students in Dubai are allowed to work. They can work up to 10 hours per week and earn approximately 12 dollars per hour.
How much does education cost in Dubai?
The average cost of education in Dubai is around 10,000 to 15,000 dollars per year. This amount varies depending on the type of university, level of study, and the student’s chosen field of study.
How long is the validity of a student visa in the UAE?
UAE student visas are issued for one year and can be renewed annually. If all the required documents for the visa application are correct, the student visa is issued within 2 to 5 week
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