The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged to become one of the most sought-after destinations for international students, due to its well-balanced academic and unique cultural experience offered to these students. In the last decade, the UAE has heavily invested in education in order to make it a first-class education destination across the world, bringing millions of students from every corner of the world into its acclaimed universities and institutions. Ranging from futuristic cities to the wide cultures that have been moulded under the rich heritage of this beautiful country, the UAE offers a perfect environment where East meets West in one dynamic and thriving economy.
This article takes you through the great benefits of studying in the UAE, top universities, application process, cost of education, and what life as an international student is in this exciting country in the Middle East.
Why study in the UAE?
The UAE offers an attractive blend of quality education, excellent infrastructure, a booming economy, and a safe, multicultural environment. Here are some reasons why studying in the UAE is becoming increasingly popular among international students:
1. World-class universities:
There are a number of internationally accredited universities in the UAE. Several of the country’s leading institutions are affiliated with other leading globally universities; this means that students can get around to pursuing the known, international degree most everywhere. For example, American University of Sharjah, the University of Dubai, and Khalifa University are always recognized for offering quality academic programs. The UAE also hosts international branches of renowned institutions, such as New York University’s Abu Dhabi and the University of Birmingham Dubai.
Cultural Diversity:
The UAE, due to its cultural diversity, boasts of over 200 nationalities existing in the country and living within it. As a result, all kinds of students from around the world get a multi-cultural experience studying here. Such diversity can be seen in the students and their exposure toward diverse culture and their lifestyle while staying in the country, thereby making this country a viable destination for foreign students.
Economic Opportunities:
The country also ranks among the fastest-growing economies worldwide. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are significant business centers across the world. Students studying in the UAE have multinational corporations nearby, which can offer them rich opportunities for internships and employment, both in financial areas and engineering and tourism, for instance, technology. The strength of the economy and the very low rates of unemployment make it easy for students to find their places on the job market after passing out.
Safety and Quality of Life: The country ranks as one of the safest in the world. With tough laws and a very low crime rate, students and their families can feel safe that the country provides a good living and studying environment. In addition, the UAE provides a high quality of life, including modern infrastructure, good health care, and recreations and cultural activities.
Modern Technology and Innovation:
The UAE has positioned itself at the helm of technological innovation and smart city development. Generally, universities in the UAE are interested in teaching subjects such as engineering, artificial intelligence, and information technology. All these subject areas make it possible for students to have close encounters with the latest available technology, including various research abilities.
Leading universities in the UAE
The UAE is diverse with various institutions that give a respective number of students an opportunity to get into different fields or prepare them for different careers. Here is a list of some of the most notable institutions:
Khalifa University (Abu Dhabi):
Dedicated to engineering and technology, Khalifa University is one of the most prestigious in the United Arab Emirates. It offers undergraduate courses, postgraduate degrees, as well as a doctoral level. They are additionally considered to be a leading research center and innovation hub in the Middle East.
American University of Sharjah (Sharjah):
This university is especially known for its liberal arts programs and global education focus. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education in the U.S., AUS offers degree studies in business, engineering, arts, and sciences.
New York University Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi):
NYU Abu Dhabi is the branch of the New York University in the United States. The university offers liberal arts education with an international approach to prepare them for leadership roles in this globalized world. NYU Abu Dhabi takes pride in its high class standard of education with rigorous admission processes.
Dubai University (Dubai)
One of the biggest business schools in the region, the University of Dubai is particularly famous for business administration, law, and information technology. As well, it maintains a close relationship with the regional business community, thus offering a lot of chances for students to gain hands-on or on-the-job experience and eventually internships.
United Arab Emirates University (Al Ain):
UAE University is also one of the oldest and most respected universities in the country. From sciences to engineering and even business, a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses are on offer.
Application process for international students
Apply to universities in the UAE is not cumbersome. However, some institutions may have specific requirements set. Here’s a general outline of the process:
Select Your Program:
Start with research on the various universities and their programs relevant to your academic and career purposes. In doing so, find the programmes that you want to enroll in, then proceed with the application process.
Qualify Under Requirements:
Entry levels differ according to the institution or program but, generally, to enroll in an undergraduate course, an international student would need a high school diploma or equivalent. For postgrad, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required. Most universities also require proof of English language proficiency, which can be achieved through IELTS, TOEFL, etc.
Application Submission:
Applications are often submitted online on the website of the university. In addition to application forms, you will be required to present academic transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and proof of English language proficiency. Other programs might require entrance exams or interviews.
Process Visa:
Once a student is accepted, international students need to apply for a student visa to enter the UAE. The university will often facilitate this process, but the applicant has to provide documentation of his/her financial stability and health insurance, with a valid passport.
Costs Involved in Higher Education in the UAE
The cost of studying in the UAE is very specific, and it can vary accordingly from one kind of institution to another, program to program, and even location to location. Here are the major costs:
Tuition Fees:
Undergraduate tuition goes from a minimum of AED 37,500 to a maximum of AED 70,000 per year for the undergraduate course and AED 55,000 to AED 85,000 ($15,000 to $23,000) per year for a postgrad program. Engineering and medicine courses cost more.
Living Cost
The general cost of living in the UAE is quite high. Major expenses include accommodation, food, transportation, and any other related costs, amounting to AED 3,500 to AED 6,000 ($950 to $1,600) per month.
Scholarship programs
Most of the best-rated universities in the UAE offer scholarships and financial aid for international students based on merit or need. So, it would be wise to research available opportunities and apply early.
Life as an International Student in the UAE
Living in the UAE as an international student is indeed a rich, diversified experience. Opportunities abound for personal and professional growth.
Cultural Experience:
The UAE is a melting pot of cultures, with students able to attend everything from traditional Arabic festivals to modern art exhibitions and concerts. Historical sites in the country, such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi and the Dubai Museum, shed insight into the region’s heritage.
Part-Time Work Opportunities:
International students are permitted to work part time. Nevertheless, they require work permits for that reason. Many of the students would take part-time jobs like in hospitality or retail or as interns in an associated field to help cover up their expense and gain experience.
Leisure Time Activities:
The recreation activities offered by UAE encompass luxury malls, outdoor pursuits such as a desert safari, water sports, and trekking. World-class infrastructure, state-of-the-art sports facilities, and fitness centers are also open to the students.