23 best universities in Dubai 2024

Higher education in Dubai is an inclusive and internationally recognized educational system that has been actively developing over the past decade and has taken a strong position in the international market. In Dubai, you will find a wide range of universities - from schools for future entrepreneurs to niche institutes for the study of art. We present an overview of the best universities in Dubai - public, private and specialized universities. 

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

Best Universities in Dubai: Locations and Academic Areas

Dubai's esteemed universities are primarily located in two key academic districts: Dubai Knowledge Park and Dubai International Academic City (DIAC). Admissions for universities in Dubai typically open by September.

University of Dubai

Renowned for its strong and structured undergraduate and postgraduate programs, the University of Dubai offers courses in law, business, engineering, and IT. This state-run institution comprises three colleges: the Dubai Business School, College of Engineering, and Law College, catering to both local and international applicants. The university is known for merit-based scholarships and special discounts.

Middlesex University Dubai

Established in 2005, Middlesex University Dubai is the first overseas campus of the globally recognized London-based university. Serving over 3,000 students from more than 100 nationalities, it offers programs in business, law, science and technology, arts and design, healthcare, and education.

Canadian University of Dubai (CUD)

Founded in 2006, CUD provides Canadian standard higher education. It offers diverse undergraduate and postgraduate courses, ranging from business development and sales to marketing. With over 100 nationalities, CUD is an ideal choice for quality education in Dubai.

Heriot-Watt University Dubai

One of the most popular foreign universities in Dubai, Heriot-Watt provides high-quality British degrees. It offers over 50 accredited courses in fields like business, media, engineering, psychology, and fashion design. The university's modern equipment and specialized labs make it a top choice for students seeking premier education in Dubai.

Curtin University Dubai

Known for its quality education and well-equipped research centers, Curtin University is a top Australian institution with a global presence. It offers preparatory programs, undergraduate and postgraduate courses in business, management, IT, engineering, and humanities.

Zayed University Dubai

Founded in 1998, Zayed University Dubai is one of three branches of a renowned public college in the UAE. Accredited by the CAA and MSCHE, it offers programs in business, arts, journalism, technology, medicine, and humanities. The university provides financial aid and merit scholarships.

MODUL University Dubai

The first Austrian higher education institution in the Middle East, MODUL University Dubai offers business studies and hospitality management. Its programs, facilitated by Dubai Investments, cover tourism, hospitality, sustainable development, public governance, new media technologies, and entrepreneurship.

Amity University

With campuses in New York, London, China, Singapore, and Dubai, Amity University prepares students for careers in science and technology. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, offering courses in management, engineering, natural sciences, law, humanities, hospitality, and tourism.

Synergy University Dubai

Located in Jumeirah Lake Towers, Synergy University Dubai, a branch of a prestigious Russian university, offers academic and language courses ranging from entrepreneurship to hospitality management.

Manipal University Dubai (MAHE Dubai)

A leading Indian university in Dubai, MAHE Dubai offers preparatory, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses in engineering, media, and communications, with facilities like a fully-equipped TV post-production lab.

Dubai Pharmacy College

Founded in 1992, Dubai Pharmacy College is a leading institution in pharmaceutical studies, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as certification courses.

Al Ghurair University

Located in Academic City, Al Ghurair University is a globally recognized private institution offering higher education programs in various fields like architecture, business, education, law, social sciences, and engineering.

University of Wollongong Dubai

Situated in Dubai Knowledge Park, this leading Australian university in the UAE offers finance, management, engineering, and humanities programs for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Murdoch University Dubai

Founded in 2018, this Australian university offers degrees in commerce, IT, media, and postgraduate programs in business management and HR. Murdoch provides on-campus education with real-world industry experience.

• Dubai Medical University Hospital, Fakeeh University Hospital Dubai, and Dubai University Hospital are leading institutions for medical studies.

• Middlesex University and the University of Birmingham Dubai offer top-rated law programs.

• Heriot-Watt University and the Canadian University of Dubai provide interior design programs.

• Al Dar University College, Al Ghurair University, Amity University, and the Canadian University in Dubai offer some of the most affordable courses in the emirate.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for foreign students in Dubai vary depending on the level of education (undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate) and the specific institution. Generally, international students can expect to pay higher tuition fees compared to local students.

Fees can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars annually, depending on the program and university.

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation in Dubai can be significant. Many universities offer on-campus housing or assist students in finding suitable off-campus accommodation.

Rent for apartments or shared housing can vary based on the location and amenities.

Living Expenses

Dubai is known for being a relatively expensive city. International students should budget for living expenses, including food, transportation, health insurance, and miscellaneous expenses. Cost of living can vary based on lifestyle choices and individual spending habits.

Visa Fees

Foreign students in Dubai usually need a student visa, and there are associated fees for obtaining and renewing the visa. Visa fees can vary depending on the type and duration of the visa.

In summary, Dubai hosts a wide range of universities catering to various fields of study, each with its unique strengths and offerings. Whether it's business, law, engineering, medicine, or design, students can find a program that fits their aspirations among the best universities in Dubai. The Dubai university ranking reflects the diverse and high-quality education available, with options for every budget.

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