Destination guide
United Arab Emirates
Western branch campuses, zero income tax, and a Green Visa post-study.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi host branch campuses of NYU, Heriot-Watt, Birmingham and Sorbonne. English is the medium of instruction, and graduates can apply for a 5-year Green Visa to work without sponsorship.
Top universities
- • NYU Abu DhabiApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • Khalifa UniversityApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • American University of SharjahApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • Heriot-Watt DubaiApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • MBZUAIApply Now via Partner Counselor
Popular programmes
- • MSc AIApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • MBAApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • MSc EngineeringApply Now via Partner Counselor
- • MA International StudiesApply Now via Partner Counselor
Student Residency Visa
Application timeline
- 1Apply direct to the university's international office
- 2Attest your transcripts via MOFA + UAE Embassy
- 3Accept offer and pay tuition deposit
- 4University files Student Residency Visa via ICP
- 5Complete Emirates ID biometrics on arrival
- 6Open a bank account with your Emirates ID
Insider tips
- Sharjah is ~40% cheaper than Dubai and a short commute away.
- MBZUAI offers fully-funded AI masters — apply 6+ months ahead.
- Use the 'Golden Visa for Outstanding Students' if you have 95%+ grades.
- Many programmes have an industry-placement semester baked in.
Tests accepted
Official resources
Cost of studying in United Arab Emirates
Tuition, monthly living costs, visa fees and a rupee funding-gap calculator.
Student Residency Visa document checklist
Every document you need, as a tickable list you can save.
Studying in United Arab Emirates — FAQs
How much does it cost to study in United Arab Emirates?＋
Tuition typically runs AED 50,000 – 110,000 / year, and living costs come to roughly AED 5,850 per month in a mid-range city — about ₹31.2 lakh for a typical first year including living costs. Use the United Arab Emirates cost calculator to model your own numbers.
What visa do I need to study in United Arab Emirates?＋
You need the Student Residency Visa. The application fee is AED 3,000 – 5,000 (applied by university) and processing usually takes 2–4 weeks. The university sponsors your visa after enrolment — allow 3-6 weeks.
Can I work while studying in United Arab Emirates?＋
Permitted with university NOC After graduating: Green Visa — 5 years, self-sponsored
Which tests do universities in United Arab Emirates accept?＋
Commonly accepted tests are IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT (business). Requirements vary by university and programme, so always confirm on the programme page.
When are the intakes for United Arab Emirates?＋
September primary · January secondary Applications generally open 9-12 months before the intake starts.
How much money do I need to show for a United Arab Emirates student visa?＋
Tuition plus accommodation and living costs, usually evidenced by a sponsor letter.