How much does it cost to study in the UAE?

Nowadays, so many students are seeking to study abroad, and they are always confused about which country to choose. For students who are seeking world-class education in a culturally rich, modern, and globally connected environment, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is no doubt becoming an increasingly popular destination. From international universities and career-focused programs to very high-tech and excellent campuses and diverse communities, the UAE always offers a compelling educational experience. But how much does it cost to study in UAE? Let’s break it down and understand more in this blog.

 

Explore: How much does it cost to study in UAE?

 

1. Tuition Fees: Varying by Program and Institution

The cost of studying in UAE depends largely on the type of program, the institution, and the level of study.

UG Programs:

• Tuition ranges from AED 35,000 to AED 70,000 per year
  (Approx. ₹7–14 lakhs INR per year)

PG Programs:

• Tuition for study in UAE can range from AED 45,000 to AED 85,000 per year
  (Approx. ₹9–17 lakhs INR per year)

There are so many well-known institutions like the University of Dubai and the American University of Sharjah, and international campuses such as Heriot-Watt or Middlesex University Dubai have tuition structures similar to universities in Western countries but often with shorter program durations and lower living costs for studying in UAE.

 

2. Living Expenses in UAE

The living expenses in UAE can vary depending on your lifestyle and the city you live in. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are generally more expensive, while Sharjah and Ajman are more budget-friendly.

On average, students should budget

• Accommodation: AED 2,000–4,000/month

• Food & Transport: AED 1,000–1,500/month

• Miscellaneous: AED 500–1,000/month

That brings the total monthly cost of studying in UAE to around AED 3,500–6,000, or AED 42,000–72,000 per year (₹8.5–14 lakhs INR/year), depending on choices like shared housing and meal plans.

 

3. Student Visa UAE Cost

To study in UAE, you’ll need a student residence visa, which is typically sponsored by the university itself.

• Student visa UAE cost ranges from AED 3,000 to AED 7,000
  (₹65,000 to ₹1.5 lakhs INR approx.)
  This includes application fees, medical testing, Emirates ID, and processing fees. Most visas are valid for one year and renewable annually.

Some universities offer bundled visa services within their overall service package, so it’s important to check what’s included during the admission process.

 

4. Scholarships in UAE

While the UAE is seen as a premium education destination, there are scholarships in UAE for international students based on merit, academic excellence, or financial need.

Types of scholarships:

• Merit-based discounts (10% to 50%) on tuition fees

• Need-based financial aid

• Special country-specific grants

• Scholarships for STEM, business, and innovation-related courses

There are so many universities like Khalifa University, American University in Dubai, and the University of Sharjah that offer attractive scholarships to high-performing students. It’s always recommended to apply to study in UAE early and submit a strong academic profile to increase your chances.

 

5. Additional Expenses

Aside from tuition, living costs, and visa fees, there are other minor costs you should plan for:

• Textbooks and supplies Cost of studying in UAE: AED 1,000–2,000/year

• Health insurance: Often mandatory to study in UAE and may cost around AED 1,000–1,500/year

• Travel and leisure: AED 500–1,000/month depending on your lifestyle

 Conclusion

As we know, studying in this country is very beneficial. While the UAE is not the cheapest study destination, it will offer you exceptional value when considering the quality of education, huge global exposure, safety, and job prospects. With smart planning, affordable housing options, and potential scholarships in the UAE, students can comfortably study in UAE within a reasonable budget. The cost of studying in UAE is very low.

For students seeking a balance between East and West, modern infrastructure, and international networking opportunities, the UAE is a solid investment in their future.

If you’re ready to study in UAE but unsure how to begin, Education Vibes is here to help. From selecting the right university to applying for scholarships and handling your student visa UAE cost, our expert advisors guide you every step of the way.

 Get in touch with Education Vibes today and take the first step toward your future in the UAE!