The UAE offers Indian students a world-class education and diverse personal and professional growth opportunities. With approximately 219,000 Indian students currently studying in the UAE, they make up over 30% of the international student population. Top universities like the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), American University of Sharjah (AUS), and the University of Dubai (UD) are popular among Indian students and consistently rank well globally.
The UAE’s focus on innovation and strong job market make it an attractive destination for students inbusiness administration, engineering, medicine, computer science, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The multicultural environment and the presence of Indian universities add to its appeal, offering a blend of familiar and diverse experiences.
With a focus onsafety, modern infrastructure, and a rich cultural heritage, the UAE provides Indian students with a high-quality educational journey and valuable international exposure.
Core Facts About UAE
Education in UAE
University / College Stats
Why Study in UAE?
- World-Class Education: 57 accredited universities offering diverse programs in fields like business, engineering, STEM, and more.
- Multicultural Exposure: Over 200 nationalities, providing a global learning environment.
- Cultural Heritage: Immerse in the UAE’s culture with landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
- Safety: The UAE offers a secure, student-friendly environment.
- Growing Indian Student Presence: Around 219,000 Indian students, making the UAE a top choice over the US and UK.
- Diverse Programs: Choose from Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Vocational courses.
Universities and Courses
Best Universities in UAE for Indian Students
The top universities in the UAE offer world-class education with state-of-the-art facilities, attracting students from around the globe. Institutions like Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), and the American University of Sharjah are renowned for their academic excellence and diverse programs. With affordable tuition fees and strong research opportunities, these universities provide students with a competitive edge in their careers.
The UAE's higher education system is rapidly growing, offering numerous opportunities for international students, including those from India. The UAE hosts approximately 219,000 Indian students, making it an attractive destination for Indian students seeking higher education abroad. From business, engineering, and technology to arts and sciences, the top courses to study in UAE are varied and of high quality. With access to UAE scholarships for Indian students, affordable tuition, and a streamlined admission process for Indian students in UAE universities, studying in the UAE is enriching and accessible.
| S.No | University | QS World University Ranking 2024 |
| 1 | New York University Abu Dhabi | #101 globally |
| 2 | United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) | Around #261 in Asia, #1073 globally |
| 3 | American University of Sharjah | Around #556 in Asia, #1893 globally |
| 4 | Khalifa University | #322 globally |
| 5 | University of Sharjah | Around #590 in Asia, #1997 globally |
| 6 | Higher Colleges of Technology | No ranking available |
| 7 | Zayed University | No ranking available |
| 8 | Abu Dhabi University | #234 globally |
| 9 | American University in Dubai | #178 globally |
| 10 | Ajman University | No ranking available |
Study in Dubai for Indian Students
Study in Dubai for Indian students provides world-class education in a multicultural setting. With top universities in UAE like Amity University Dubai and University of Dubai, students enjoy affordable fees and excellent infrastructure. Dubai’s global connectivity and diverse culture make it ideal for higher education. Indian students can also benefit from scholarships in UAE for Indian students, easing tuition costs.
Study in UAE Acceptance Rates
Acceptance rates for universities in UAE range from 40% to 70%. Competitive institutions like Khalifa University and American University of Sharjah may have lower acceptance rates. Understanding these acceptance rates helps Indian students prepare better for the admission process for UAE universities, improving their chances of acceptance.
Popular Courses in UAE
The popular courses in UAE include engineering, business administration, and computer science. Other in-demand programs like healthcare and finance are highly regarded due to the UAE's booming industries. Studying these courses provides global exposure and strong career opportunities. With cost of studying in UAE being competitive, Indian students can manage expenses through scholarships and affordable student accommodation.
- Business Administration: MBA, entrepreneurship.
- Engineering: Civil, mechanical, petroleum.
- IT & Computer Science: Cybersecurity, AI.
- Healthcare: Nursing, pharmacy, MBBS.
- Hospitality: Hotel management, event management.
Scholarships in UAE for Indian students and a wide variety of student services make studying in the UAE an attractive choice for those looking for high-quality education with excellent future prospects.
UAE Intakes for Indian Students
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers three main intakes throughout the year: fall (September), Spring (January), and Summer (July). These intake months provide flexibility for students planning to pursue higher education in the UAE.
- Fall Intake (September): This is the most popular intake, offering a wide variety of programs across disciplines, including engineering, business, healthcare, and IT. The Fall intake is the best time for new students to start a degree program in UAE as universities typically offer the most courses during this period.
- Spring Intake (January): Spring intake in UAE is the second most common, with fewer programs available than in the fall. However, it’s an excellent option for those who missed the Fall intake. It allows students to catch up with their academic schedule and start their studies in UAE mid-year.
- Summer Intake (July): The Summer intake in UAE is relatively short (2-3 months) and is ideal for students seeking to complete shorter programs or internships. It’s more competitive and limited in terms of courses offered, but it’s a good opportunity for those wishing to take a break or accelerate their education in specific fields.
Cost of Studying in UAE for Indian Students
The cost of studying in UAE varies depending on the university and program. For undergraduate courses, tuition fees generally range from AED 20,000 to AED 40,000 per year, whereas postgraduate programs can cost between AED 27,000 and AED 128,000 annually. Private universities tend to have higher tuition fees, which can make the cost of studying in the UAE slightly more expensive in those institutions.
The availability of scholarships in the UAE is a significant advantage for Indian students, helping to reduce the overall financial burden. These financial aid options, combined with affordable living expenses, make the UAE attractive for students seeking a high-quality education at a competitive cost.
| Category | Amount (AED) |
| Tuition Fees - Bachelor's | 20,000 - 40,000 per year |
| Tuition Fees - Masters/Doctorate | 27,000 - 128,000 per year |
| Living Expenses | 3,000 - 6,000 per month |
With scholarships in UAE for Indian students and the relatively lower cost of studying in UAE, it remains an ideal destination for students seeking affordable education abroad without compromising on quality
Best Scholarships for Indian Students in UAE
Numerous scholarships for Indian students in the UAE are offered by leading universities such as Khalifa University, Amity University Dubai, and the University of Dubai. These scholarships are designed to make higher education more accessible by covering tuition fees and living expenses and rewarding academic excellence. By offering financial aid, these scholarships ease the financial burden for Indian students pursuing their studies in the UAE.
Additionally, variousgovernment and private organizations provide financial assistance to deserving candidates. This makes the cost of studying in UAE more manageable for Indian students, as they can benefit from a range of financial support options, enhancing their educational experience in a world-class academic environment.
Here are some of the top scholarships for Indian students in UAE:
| Scholarship | Eligibility Criteria | Coverage |
| International Student Scholarship | Open to all nationalities | Varies depending on academic performance (Merit List based on CGPA) |
| DEWA Employee Scholarship | DEWA employees | 30% scholarship for entire degree duration |
| Amity Graduate Award | Students who completed undergraduate degree from Amity University Dubai | 20% scholarship for Master's degree duration |
| Dubai Police & ESAAD Card Holder Scholarship | Dubai Police and ESAAD card holders | 30% scholarship for entire degree duration |
| FAZAA Card Holder Bursary | FAZAA card holders | 20% bursary on tuition fee for first academic year only |
| UAE Nationals Scholarship | UAE Nationals | 30% scholarship for entire degree duration |
| RTA Employee Scholarship (CAA degrees) | RTA employees (CAA degrees only) | 30% scholarship for entire degree duration |
| International Student Bursary | Students applying from outside the UAE | 20% bursary for entire degree duration |
| Al SAADA Card Holder Scholarship | Al SAADA card holders | 30% scholarship for entire degree duration |
| WAFFER Card Holder Scholarship | WAFFER card holders | 20% scholarship for entire degree duration |
These scholarships in UAE for Indian students are highly competitive but provide a fantastic opportunity to reduce the cost of studying in UAE. Whether you are pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, these scholarships can greatly ease the financial burden and support students in achieving academic excellence.
Student Visa for Indian Students to Study in UAE
Securing a student visa is essential for Indian students planning to study in the UAE. The student visa is valid for one year and can be renewed annually, providing students ample time to complete their studies. To obtain this visa, students must submit a range of documents and provide proof of financial stability, admission to a UAE institution, and health insurance coverage.
Cost of Student and Work Visas for Indian Students
| Visa Category | Cost of Visa Application | When to Apply |
| Student Visa | AED 3,000 - AED 4,000 (including medical insurance) | 1-2 months before the academic program starts |
| Work Visa | Varies depending on employer and job position | As soon as the job offer is received |
The student visa is crucial for Indian students to study in the UAE. The work visa can also be important for those planning to gain work experience while studying.
Documents Required for UAE Student Visa Application
- Visa application form
- Valid passport (at least 6 months)
- Admission letter from a UAE university
- Proof of tuition fee payment
- Medical fitness test results
- Proof of accommodation (if applicable)
- Financial documents (e.g., bank statements)
- Visa fee payment receipt
UAE student visas provide a gateway for Indian students to access top universities in the UAE, making it an excellent option for pursuing a high-quality education in an affordable destination. .
Required Entrance Exams to Study in UAE
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Required for non-native English speakers to demonstrate English proficiency.
- SAT(Scholastic Assessment Test) or ACT (American College Testing): Often required for undergraduate admissions, particularly for American curriculum-based programs.
- EmSAT (Emirates Standardized Test): Mandatory for admission to higher education institutions in the UAE, including private and federal universities.
- GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination): Required for admission to graduate business programs (GMAT) or various graduate programs (GRE).
- MCAT (Medical College Admission Test): Required for admission to medical schools or programs.
- UKCAT (UK Clinical Aptitude Test) or BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test): Required for admission to medical or dental schools, especially those following the UK curriculum.
- LNAT (National Admissions Test for Law): Required for admission to law schools, particularly in the UK.
- IELTS Academic for UKVI (United Kingdom Visas and Immigration): Required for students applying for Tier 4 student vsas to study in the UK.
- PTE (Pearson Test of English): Accepted by some institutions as an alternative to IELTS or TOEFL for English language proficiency.
Work Opportunities for Indian Students in UAE
The UAE offers numerous work opportunities for Indian students, especially in sectors like technology, hospitality, and finance. International students can gain valuable internship and part-time jobs while studying. Post-graduation work permits also allow students to pursue full-time employment after their studies.
Job Roles and Salary Ranges
| Job Role | Salary Range (approx.) |
| IT Manager | AED 15,000 - AED 35,000 |
| Software Engineer | AED 8,000 - AED 20,000 |
| Accountant | AED 5,000 - AED 15,000 |
| Marketing Manager | AED 12,000 - AED 30,000 |
| Civil Engineer | AED 10,000 - AED 25,000 |
| Sales Executive | AED 5,000 - AED 15,000 |
| HR Manager | AED 12,000 - AED 25,000 |
| Graphic Designer | AED 5,000 - AED 15,000 |
| Operations Manager | AED 15,000 - AED 35,000 |
| Teacher | AED 8,000 - AED 20,000 |
Top FAQs for Indian Students in UAE
1. What are the admission requirements for universities in UAE?
Requirements typically include academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL), a valid passport, and sometimes entrance exams. Some universities may also require letters of recommendation or a statement of purpose.
2. What is the average cost of studying in UAE for Indian students?
Tuition fees range from AED 20,000 to AED 40,000 for undergraduate programs and AED 27,000 to AED 128,000 for postgraduate programs. Living expenses typically range from AED 3,000 to AED 5,000 monthly, depending on the location and lifestyle. Scholarships can help reduce these costs.
3. Are scholarships available for Indian students in UAE?
Yes, universities in UAE offer scholarships like the International Student Scholarship, Amity Graduate Award, and other merit-based financial aids. These scholarships can cover a portion of tuition fees or living expenses.
4. How can I obtain a student visa to study in UAE?
To apply for a student visa, you need an admission offer from a UAE university, financial proof to support your education and living expenses, and valid health insurance. Applying 1-2 months before your program's start date is advisable.
5. Can Indian students work while studying in UAE?
Yes, Indian students can work part-time or pursue internships with approval from their university and the relevant UAE authorities. After graduation, post-graduation work permits are available for those looking for full-time employment opportunities.
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