OVERVIEW
Dubai is a popular city in the United Arab Emirates and is also the most populated. The city is one of the seven emirates that make up the country of UAE. Dubai is located at the northern end of UAE, bordering the Persian Gulf. It is a major hub of global activity and a buzzing business centre in the Middle East. Dubai is the most expensive city in the Middle East, and the 22nd most expensive city in the world.
Dubai has seen a lot of development in recent years, with its major revenue coming from real estate, financial services, aviation and tourism. Dubai’s development is mainly due to the major investments made in sectors such as education, healthcare and infrastructure. Dubai is investing a lot in improving education and research within the country, which makes it a potential hub for students pursuing higher education.
Why Study in Dubai
Dubai is a relatively new entrant to the study abroad trend but is soon becoming a popular choice among youngsters. With its wealthy economy and multitude of work opportunities, the city is a magnet for students who aspire for a greater future.
There are many reasons why someone should choose to study in Dubai. Here are some of them:
- Highest ranking universities in the Arab region.
- Courses based on an international model of higher education.
- Large number of expatriates in the society makes students feel at home.
- Fastest growing economy in the world.
- Availability of flexible course options for international students.
- Exposure to a cosmopolitan lifestyle and the mingling of various cultures.
- Unique experiences with respect to food, travel and adventure.
- Many international universities have branches within Dubai.
Courses Offered
Dubai has a variety of academic institutions that are dedicated to higher learning. While there are a few government funded universities where admission is restricted to national citizens, the city also has more than 25 international branch campuses to cater to foreign students who wish to study in Dubai.
All these universities offer the traditional courses:
- Undergraduate program (3 to 4 years)
- Post graduate program (1 to 2 years)
- Doctorate program
Most post graduate courses are taught full time and students are required to submit a thesis to fulfil their curriculum.
Education Requirements
Traditional academic requirements apply for all higher education courses in the Dubai. Students may also be required to show good results in their prior education in order to gain admission in reputed institutions.
Students who are not fluent in English may have to present an IELTS score of at least 6.0 in order to be eligible for admission. Some universities that need students to know Arabic might provide courses for them to learn the same.
Cost Of Education
The cost of studying in Dubai varies mainly based on the individual university, the type of course and its duration.
Students may have to pay additional costs that are applicable for application, registration, books and supplies. Dubai does have a high standard of living, so students need to be prepared financially before they arrive.
Application Procedure
The academic year in most universities runs from September to June and is divided into three semesters – fall, spring and summer. Students seeking admission would have to send out their applications latest by May or June of the year they are planning to commence their education.
The application procedure for universities in Dubai is as follows:
- Meet with our guidance counsellor who will provide expert advice on what kind of course/university would best suit the student’s interests.
- Apply to the university with supporting documents such as the application form, passport, academic certificates, references, and IELTS scores.
- Once admission has been granted, provide financial proof and apply for a student visa.
- The student visa is usually granted for one year and can be extended based on the need.
- Once the visa has arrived, coordinate with the university and finalize travel plans.
Work Rights
Some universities allow international students to work part time up to 20 hours per week with prior permission. Some foreign universities with branches in Dubai also have tie ups with companies in other countries, and offer the students placement opportunities.
There is a high need for educated professionals in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields. Individuals can apply for work permits only after they have secured a well paying job.
More About Dubai
Dubai has a few interesting aliases. It is known as the City of Gold because gold trade plays a major role in the city’s economy. It is also referred to as the Pearl of the Arabian Gulf because it is the most important port and commercial hub within the UAE. Arabic is the official language of the city, although English is widely used for general conversation. Unlike the rest of the western world, the work week in Dubai runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday being the weekend.
Dubai’s climate reflects that of the desert, and it is sunny most of the year. The city has been well developed into a thriving oasis thanks to the huge investments made through its real estate industry. The diverse nature of society in Dubai, coupled with the presence of huge international organizations, makes it an up and coming educational destination for students from around the world.