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Dubai has emerged as a global education hub for international students and successfully attracts students worldwide with its lively culture, modern infrastructure, and useful academic offerings. The top universities in Dubai provide a wide range of programs, ensuring that students can find the right fit for their educational and career aspirations. Whether you are looking for top private universities in Dubai or top public universities in Dubai, the city boasts institutions that cater to different fields of study, including business, engineering, and the humanities.
This Blog Includes:
- Top 10 Dubai Universities for International Students as per QS Ranking 2025
- Top Private Universities in Dubai
- Top Public Universities in Dubai
- MBA Universities in Dubai
- Top Universities in Dubai for Engineering
- Top Universities in Dubai for Masters
- Top Universities in Dubai for PhD
- Top Universities in Dubai for Different Undergraduate Programs
- How To Apply for Best Universities in Dubai
- Documents Required For Dubai Universities for International Students
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Top 10 Dubai Universities for International Students as per QS Ranking 2025
As of the QS World University Rankings 2025, here are the top 10 universities in Dubai for international students. These institutions are recognized for their academic excellence, different programs, and high spirited international communities, making them ideal choices for students looking to study in a global city like Dubai.
| Dubai Universities for International Students | QS World University Rank 2025 |
| Khalifa University | 202 |
| United Arab Emirates University | 261 |
| American University of Sharjah | 332 |
| University of Sharjah | 434 |
| Ajman University of Science and Technology | 477 |
| American University of Rase Khaimah | 485 |
| Abu Dhabi University | 501 |
| Canadian University Dubai | 523 |
| AI Ain University | 552 |
| American University in Dubai | 621-630 |
| Zayed University | 621-630 |
| Dubai University College | 851-900 |
Also Read: Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Dubai
Top Private Universities in Dubai
Dubai is home to several top private universities in Dubai that cater to the overseas student population worldwide. These institutions often offer flexible programs, innovative curricula, and modern facilities.
Private universities like the American University in Dubai (AUD) and the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) are recognized for their academic excellence and international accreditation.
These private universities in Dubai provide a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, ensuring students have access to quality education tailored to the demands of the global job market.
With smaller class sizes, these universities often emphasise personalised learning experiences, allowing students to engage more deeply with their professors and peers.
| Name of University | Average Annual Tuition Fees (AED) | QS Ranking (Global/Region) |
| American University in Dubai | 80,000–95,000 | QS Arab Region #26 |
| University of Wollongong in Dubai | 75,000 | Middle East recognized |
| Canadian University Dubai | 65,000–85,000 | Not Ranked |
| Middlesex University Dubai | 55,000–65,000 | QS Global #801–1000 |
| Murdoch University Dubai | 35,000–60,000 | Not Ranked |
| British University in Dubai | 55,000 | Primarily PG-focused |
| SP Jain School of Global Management | 120,000 | Global MBA |
| MODUL University Dubai | 70,000–90,000 | Not Ranked |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | 60,000–75,000 | QS #801–1000 |
| Amity University Dubai | 40,000–65,000 | Known for Engineering |
Top Public Universities in Dubai
In addition to private institutions, Dubai boasts several top public universities in Dubai that offer high-quality education at competitive tuition rates. The University of Dubai and the Higher Colleges of Technology are leading public universities that provide various programs across disciplines.
These universities are known for their strong industry connections and focus on research, equipping students with practical skills essential for their careers.
Public universities in Dubai often enjoy robust support from the government. These public institutions enhance their facilities and resources, making them an attractive option for students looking for quality education in a public setting.
| Name of University | Average Annual Tuition Fees (AED) | QS Ranking (Global/Region) |
| Khalifa University (Abu Dhabi) | 30,000 | QS World #230 |
| United Arab Emirates University | 20,000–30,000 | QS Arab Region #5 |
| Zayed University | 20,000–25,000 | QS Arab Region #32 |
| Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine | Varies by Program | Medical-focused |
| University of Sharjah | 50,000 | QS Arab Region #16 |
| Abu Dhabi University | 40,000–60,000 | QS Arab Region #31 |
| Ajman University | 40,000 | Known for Healthcare |
| Al Ain University of Science and Technology | Varies | Regional ranking |
MBA Universities in Dubai
For aspiring business leaders, Dubai features several esteemed MBA universities in Dubai that offer different programs designed to develop managerial skills and entrepreneurial acumen.
Institutions like the Manchester Business School and the INSEAD Middle East Campus are renowned for their rigorous MBA programs.
These universities provide networking opportunities with industry leaders, practical learning experiences, and a global perspective on business.
Students in these programs benefit from Dubai’s rich economy, gaining insights into the unique business environment of the region and enhancing their career prospects upon graduation.
| University | Average Annual Tuition Fees (AED) | QS Ranking (Global/Region) |
| Hult International Business School | 110 (Global) | 184,300 |
| London Business School (Dubai) | AED 460,000 – AED 500,000 | Top 10 globally (LBS UK campus) |
| University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) | AED 110,000 – AED 128,000 | 193 (Global) |
| American University in Dubai (AUD) | AED 103,000 – AED 118,000 | 551-600 |
| SP Jain School of Global Management | AED 92,000 – AED 110,000 | Top 100 MBA programs |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | AED 81,000 – AED 99,000 | 281 (Global) |
| The University of Manchester – Middle East Centre | AED 165,000 – AED 184,000 | 32 (Global) |
| Canadian University Dubai | AED 73,000 – AED 92,000 | 541-550 |
| Middlesex University Dubai | AED 73,000 – AED 81,000 | 701-750 |
| Murdoch University Dubai | AED 55,000 – AED 73,000 | 431 (Global, Australia) |
| Institute of Management Technology (IMT) Dubai | AED 55,000 – AED 66,000 | Not Ranked Globally, well-regarded regionally |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi
Top Universities in Dubai for Engineering
Engineering students who are in search of a solid education can find some of the top universities in Dubai for engineering. Institutions like the Khalifa University of Science and Technology and the University of Sharjah offer specialised engineering programs across various disciplines, including civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.
These universities are known for their cutting-edge advanced facilities and research initiatives. With strong industry ties, these institutions help students secure internships and job placements, making them an excellent choice for aspiring engineers.
| Name of University | Noble Engineering Programs Available | Average Annual Tuition Fees (AED) | QS Ranking |
| American University in Dubai (AUD) | Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Computer Engineering | AED 80,000 – AED 90,000 | 551-600 globally |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | Civil, Mechanical, Chemical, Petroleum Engineering | AED 58,000 – AED 65,000 | 281 globally |
| University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) | Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Computer Engineering | AED 82,000 – AED 90,000 | 193 globally |
| Khalifa University (Abu Dhabi, nearby) | Aerospace, Biomedical, Civil, and Petroleum Engineering | AED 85,000 – AED 95,000 | 230 globally |
| Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai | Electrical, Mechanical, Computing, Industrial Engineering | AED 76,000 – AED 85,000 | Top 100 (US) |
| Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Dubai | Computer Science, Mechanical, Electronics, Civil Engineering | AED 35,000 – AED 42,000 | Top 1000 globally |
| Canadian University Dubai (CUD) | Telecommunication, Electrical, Computer Engineering | AED 66,000 – AED 75,000 | 541-550 globally |
| Middlesex University Dubai | IT and Computer Engineering, Electronics | AED 55,000 – AED 60,000 | 701-750 globally |
| Amity University Dubai | Aerospace, Mechanical, Civil, Nuclear Engineering | AED 40,000 – AED 50,000 | Well-regarded regionally |
| BITS Pilani, Dubai Campus | Mechanical, Electrical, Computer Science, Chemical Engineering | AED 65,000 – AED 70,000 | Top 1000 globally |
Top Universities in Dubai for Masters
For those looking to pursue advanced degrees, the top universities in Dubai for masters programs offer a variety of specialised fields. Popular institutions such as the American University in Dubai and the University of Dubai provide master’s programs in business, education, and technology.
These universities emphasise research and practical applications, preparing students for leadership roles in their respective fields.
The cross-culturalism environment in Dubai also enriches the learning experience, allowing students to collaborate with peers from various backgrounds and perspectives.
| Name of University | Notable Master’s Programs | Average AnnualTuition Fees (AED) | QS Ranking |
| American University in Dubai (AUD) | MBA, Master’s in Construction Management, Media Studies | AED 80,000 – AED 100,000 | 551-600 globally |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | MSc in Energy, Water Engineering, Construction Project Management | AED 58,000 – AED 65,000 | 281 globally |
| University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) | Master of Business, International Relations, Engineering Management | AED 82,000 – AED 90,000 | 193 globally |
| SP Jain School of Global Management | Global MBA, Master of Global Business, Big Data & Analytics | AED 92,000 – AED 110,000 | Top 100 MBA programs |
| Middlesex University Dubai | MSc in Robotics, Data Science, International Business | AED 55,000 – AED 60,000 | 701-750 globally |
| Canadian University Dubai (CUD) | MBA, Master’s in Information Technology, Health Management | AED 66,000 – AED 75,000 | 541-550 globally |
| Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai | MS in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Networking and Systems Administration | AED 76,000 – AED 85,000 | Top 100 (US) |
| Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Dubai | Master’s in Computer Science, Biotechnology, Business Administration | AED 35,000 – AED 42,000 | Top 1000 globally |
| Murdoch University Dubai | Master of Business Administration, Master of Education | AED 55,000 – AED 70,000 | 431 (Global, Australia) |
| Amity University Dubai | MBA, Master’s in Data Science, Aerospace Engineering | AED 40,000 – AED 50,000 | Well-regarded regionally |
Also Read: 7 Best Dubai University Scholarships for New Students
Top Universities in Dubai for PhD
Students aiming for the highest level of academic achievement can explore the top universities in Dubai for PhD programs. Institutions like the Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government and the University of Dubai offer doctoral programs that focus on research and innovation.
These universities provide a supportive academic environment, with access to experienced faculty and state-of-the-art resources.
Pursuing a PhD in Dubai not only allows students to contribute to their fields through research but also positions them well for academic and professional opportunities in a rapidly evolving global educational environment.
| Name of University | Notable PhD Programs | Average Annual Tuition Fees (AED) | QS Ranking |
| Khalifa University (Abu Dhabi, nearby) | PhD in Engineering, Robotics, Biomedical Sciences | AED 90,000 – AED 100,000 | 230 globally |
| University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) | PhD in Business Management, Computer Science | AED 70,000 – AED 85,000 | 193 globally |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | PhD in Engineering, Built Environment, Petroleum Engineering | AED 85,000 – AED 95,000 | 281 globally |
| American University in Dubai (AUD) | PhD in Business Administration, Architecture | AED 80,000 – AED 100,000 | 551-600 globally |
| British University in Dubai (BUiD) | PhD in Project Management, Education, IT Management | AED 75,000 – AED 85,000 | Well-regarded regionally |
| Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai | PhD in Computing and Information Sciences, Engineering | AED 90,000 – AED 100,000 | Top 100 (US) |
| Middlesex University Dubai | PhD in Business, Education, Computer Science | AED 60,000 – AED 75,000 | 701-750 globally |
| Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Dubai | PhD in Biotechnology, Pharmacy, and Engineering | AED 50,000 – AED 60,000 | Top 1000 globally |
| Canadian University Dubai (CUD) | PhD in Management, Environmental Studies | AED 70,000 – AED 80,000 | 541-550 globally |
| Amity University Dubai | PhD in Data Science, Management, Nanotechnology | AED 50,000 – AED 60,000 | Well-regarded regionally |
Top Universities in Dubai for Different Undergraduate Programs
Below is the list of top universities in Dubai for different undergraduate programs, including Bachelors of Business Management, Psychology, Computer Science, Hotel Management, Business, and Finance.
| Name of University | Notable Programs | Average Annual Tuition Fees (AED) | QS Ranking |
| American University in Dubai (AUD) | BBA, Psychology, MBA, Business Administration | AED 80,000 – AED 100,000 | 551-600 globally |
| University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) | BBA, Psychology, Computer Science, Business | AED 82,000 – AED 90,000 | 193 globally |
| Middlesex University Dubai | BBA, Psychology, Computer Science, Hotel Management | AED 55,000 – AED 60,000 | 701-750 globally |
| Canadian University Dubai (CUD) | BBA, Psychology, Computer Science, Finance | AED 66,000 – AED 75,000 | 541-550 globally |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | BBA, Computer Science, Business, Finance | AED 58,000 – AED 65,000 | 281 globally |
| Amity University Dubai | BBA, Hotel Management, Psychology, Business | AED 40,000 – AED 50,000 | Well-regarded regionally |
| British University in Dubai (BUiD) | Business Administration, Psychology, MBA | AED 75,000 – AED 85,000 | Well-regarded regionally |
| SP Jain School of Global Management | BBA, Global Business | AED 92,000 – AED 110,000 | Top 100 MBA programs |
| Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai | Computer Science, Business, Engineering | AED 76,000 – AED 85,000 | Top 100 (US) |
| Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Dubai | BBA, Hotel Management, Computer Science | AED 35,000 – AED 42,000 | Top 1000 globally |
How To Apply for Best Universities in Dubai
Applying to the best universities in Dubai as an international student involves a number of steps that require careful planning and attention to every detail. Find below the list of comprehensive guide to explore the process of application:
- Start by defining your academic and career goals. Consider what field of study you are interested in, whether it is business, engineering, psychology, or any other discipline.
- Dubai boasts several reputable institutions, such as the American University in Dubai (AUD), the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), Heriot-Watt University Dubai, and Canadian University Dubai (CUD), among others.
- Review each university’s website to learn about their programs, faculty, facilities, and campus culture.
- Ensure that the universities you are considering are accredited and recognized by relevant educational authorities in the UAE.
- Each program may have specific admission requirements. For instance, some may require standardised test scores (e.g., SAT, GRE, GMAT) while others might not.
- If your previous education was not conducted in English, most universities will require you to demonstrate proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Most universities have an online application portal. Create an account on the university’s website and fill out the application form accurately, ensuring that all information is correct.
- Indicate the specific program you wish to apply for, along with any specialisations if available.
Documents Required For Dubai Universities for International Students
Apart from applying for the top universities in Dubai, students should also be ready with the required documents for the admission process, in order to be free from any last minute hustle. To help you with the same here is the list of document that will be required for taking admission into the best universities of Dubai:
- Obtain official documents from all previous educational institutions. These documents should include detailed information about the courses you took and your grades.
- If applicable, submit English language Proficiency test scores from recognized tests. Most universities require an IELTS score of around 6.0 to 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 80 to 90.
- Provide a clear copy of your passport, which should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of entry into the UAE.
- Write a compelling statement outlining your academic and career aspirations, reasons for choosing the specific university and program, and how it aligns with your future goals.
- Typically, you will need two to three letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or employers who can attest to your skills and character. Ensure that these letters are tailored to the program you are applying for.
- Include a current resume that highlights your academic achievements, work experience, extracurricular activities, and any volunteer work.
- Provide recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specifications outlined by the university.
- Once accepted, you will need to prepare additional documents for your student visa application, such as a medical fitness certificate and proof of accommodation.
- Most universities will charge a non-refundable application fee. This can typically range from AED 300 to AED 1,000, depending on the institution. Be sure to check the exact fee on the university’s website and the methods of payment available.
- Certain programs may require an interview, either in-person or online. Prepare for the interview by researching common questions and articulating your motivations and aspirations clearly.
- If you meet the admission requirements, you will receive an offer letter. This letter will outline the conditions of your acceptance and the next steps you need to take.
- Follow the instructions in the offer letter to confirm your acceptance. This may involve signing a document and paying a deposit towards your tuition fees.
- Once you have confirmed your acceptance, you must apply for a student visa. You will need to submit documents such as your passport, admission letter, medical certificate, and proof of accommodation.
- Be prepared to pay the visa processing fees, which can vary depending on the type of visa.
- Research and arrange for accommodation before arriving in Dubai. Many universities offer on-campus housing, but there are also off-campus options available.
Conclusion
Applying to universities in Dubai can be an exciting journey toward your academic and professional goals. By carefully researching your options, preparing your application thoroughly, and understanding the required documentation, you can enhance your chances of being accepted into your desired program.
We hope this blog gives you a complete overview of Top University in Dubai for International Students. Stay tuned to Leverage Edu for more such content on student life abroad. Thank you for reading!
FAQs
Ans. The top universities in Dubai for international students include the United Arab Emirates University, the American University in Dubai, the University of Wollongong in Dubai, the British University in Dubai, and the Khalifa University of Science and Technology. These institutions are recognized for their academic excellence and diverse programs.
Ans. The top private universities in Dubai, such as the American University in Dubai and the British University in Dubai, often provide smaller class sizes and a more personalized education experience. In contrast, top public universities in Dubai, like the University of Dubai, may offer lower tuition rates and broader access to funding. Both types of institutions have their unique strengths and cater to different student needs.
Ans. MBA universities in Dubai, such as the American University in Dubai and the University of Wollongong in Dubai, offer a variety of specialized programs, including General Management, Marketing, Finance, and Entrepreneurship. These programs are designed to equip students with essential business skills and real-world applications, making them competitive in the job market.
Ans. The top universities in Dubai for engineering include Khalifa University of Science and Technology, the American University of Sharjah, and the University of Wollongong in Dubai. These institutions offer comprehensive engineering programs with a strong emphasis on research and practical experience.
Ans. For those interested in advanced research, the top universities in Dubai for PhD programs include the University of Dubai and Khalifa University of Science and Technology. These universities offer various doctoral programs across disciplines such as engineering, business, and science, providing students with access to experienced faculty and research facilities.
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