Study in United Arab Emirates

Study in the UAE

The UAE offers international branch campuses, tax-free living and a fast-growing job market. Main intakes are September and January, with a Student Visa sponsored by the institution.

Published: 3 Oct 2026Updated: 3 Oct 2026

Related visa guide

Need a visa to get there? See the verified entry requirements for Indian passport holders.

View United Arab Emirates visa guide
Tuition fees

AED 40,000 to 90,000 per year for most undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Branch campuses of global universities charge rates similar to their home campus.

Living cost

Around AED 30,000 to 50,000 per year for accommodation, food and transport (Dubai is higher than other emirates).

Work rights

Students can work part-time with a permit from the institution. Graduates can apply for a long-term residency visa to seek employment.

Why study in United Arab Emirates

The UAE hosts branch campuses of global universities, offers a safe and tax-free environment and provides a clear pathway to work through long-term residency visas for graduates. Its location between India and Europe makes travel easy.

Cost of studying

AED 40,000 to 90,000 per year for most undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Branch campuses of global universities charge rates similar to their home campus.

Cost of living

Around AED 30,000 to 50,000 per year for accommodation, food and transport (Dubai is higher than other emirates).

Top student cities

Dubai
Abu Dhabi
Sharjah
Ras Al Khaimah

Admission intakes

Fall (September)Spring (January)

Scholarships

  • Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship
  • University-specific merit scholarships
  • Branch-campus transfer scholarships
  • Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation awards

Student visa process

Receive an offer from a UAE institution, which sponsors your Student Visa. Submit passport, photos and medical fitness documents. Krosz helps you prepare documents and track your application.

Post-study work rights

Students can work part-time with a permit from the institution. Graduates can apply for a long-term residency visa to seek employment.

Top universities

  • New York University Abu Dhabi
  • Khalifa University
  • American University of Sharjah
  • University of Birmingham Dubai
  • Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Compare United Arab Emirates with other destinations

United Arab Emirates vs Australia

The UAE offers a tax-free environment and branch campuses close to India; Australia offers a larger traditional university system and a structured Temporary Graduate visa.

Compare Australia

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Indian students need a Student Visa, sponsored by the UAE institution they are enrolled at.

Start your United Arab Emirates study journey

Book a free counselling session or start your student visa application with Krosz.

Fees and requirements are indicative. Confirm with your chosen institution and the official immigration authority before applying.

Last updated: 3 Oct 2026

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