Top Universities in the United Arab Emirates 2024

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has rapidly developed its higher education sector, transforming it into a regional and global education hub. As of the 2023-2024 academic year, top universities in the UAE are home to over 80,000 international students, which has grown by about 12% and now makes up about 20% of the total student population. 

The Country boasts diverse institutions, from state-funded universities to private colleges and branches of renowned international universities. This influx of international students is driven by the UAE’s strategic location and commitment to providing high-quality education that aligns with its national vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy. 

In fact, there are as many as 120 higher education institutions in the UAE. So, are you eager to explore your options for studying at top universities in the United Arab Emirates? If so, you have landed on the right page. 

This guide lists all the critical details you should know as an Indian student in the UAE – when the intakes are, what the best universities for masters are, and more. Dive in for all details.   

Key Highlights:

The United Arab Emirates has been a dream destination for travel in the last few years. Having said that, the number of Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education from top universities in the United Arab Emirates has also increased.  

If you are one of those students and would like to know more about the educational opportunities in the UAE, here’s a snapshot table just for you. It enlists all the key details you will explore in this exhaustive blog post. Have a look. 

Aspect	Details
Number of International Students	Over 80,000 (20% of total student population).
Top Universities in the United Arab Emirates	Khalifa University UAEU American University of Sharjah
Average Annual Tuition Fees	INR 10L – INR 30L.
Scholarships	Ministry of Education Scholarships President’s Scholarship Graduate Research Scholarships Chancellor’s Scholars Award
Intakes at Top universities in the United Arab Emirates	Fall (September), Spring (January), Summer (May/June)
English Proficiency Tests	IELTS (minimum score 6) TOEFL (minimum score 79) PTE Academic (minimum score 50) Cambridge English Qualifications (minimum score 180)
Highest Paying Jobs in UAE	Public Relations Managing Director- INR 68L Bank Manager- INR 34L IT Manager- INR 20L Management Consultant- INR 34L Creative Director-I NR 46L

Why Study at the Top Universities in the United Arab Emirates

The UAE’s higher education sector has seen several key milestones, starting with the establishment of the UAE University in 1976. This was followed by the Higher Colleges of Technology in 1988 and Zayed University in 1998. These institutions set the foundation for the Country’s educational framework.

The past few decades have witnessed a surge in private universities and colleges. Institutions such as the American University of Sharjah, the University of Wollongong in Dubai, and Abu Dhabi University have expanded student options, offering elite bachelor’s and master’s programs.

If these reasons aren’t enough to prove to you that your choice of studying at the top universities in the UAE is correct, here are some eye-opening details. Have a look and decide for yourself.

1. There’s a Strong Emphasis on Research and Development: The UAE has significantly promoted research and development. Institutions like Khalifa University and the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre focus on advanced research in fields such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space exploration. This emphasis on R&D has placed top universities in the United Arab Emirates on the global research map.
2. There’s Accreditation and Quality Assurance: The Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) under the Ministry of Education ensures that top universities in the United Arab Emirates maintain high education standards. The CAA’s rigorous accreditation process guarantees that institutions meet international benchmarks and provide students with quality education.
3. There’s a Strong Focus on Vocational and Technical Training: Recognising the importance of vocational skills, the UAE has established several technical training centres, such as the Abu Dhabi Vocational Education and Training Institute (ADVETI) and the National Institute for Vocational Education (NIVE). These centres provide practical training in various trades, addressing the skills gap in the job market.
   
4. There’s A Thorough Integration of Digital Learning: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital learning across top universities in the United Arab Emirates. Some of the best universities in Abu Dhabi have integrated online learning platforms, blended learning models, and digital resources to ensure uninterrupted education, demonstrating adaptability and resilience.
5. The Country has a Strategic Location and Connectivity: The UAE’s strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa makes it a convenient and attractive destination for international students. Its world-class airports and connectivity through major airlines facilitate easy access for students from all over the world.
6. The Programs You Will Pursue Are Internationally Recognised: Some of the top universities in the United Arab Emirates offer internationally accredited programs, ensuring that the qualifications are recognised globally. This has led to many students choosing the UAE for higher education, knowing that their degrees will be valued worldwide.
   

5 Top Universities in the United Arab Emirates

Know this – Ever since its formation in 1971, the UAE has significantly invested in higher education. The establishment of the UAE University in 1976 marked the beginning of the Country’s journey towards educational excellence. Over the years, the government has introduced several initiatives to expand and improve the higher education sector.

Nowadays, top universities in the United Arab Emirates excel in various academic and research fields. In the 2024 QS rankings, Khalifa University, known for its engineering and technology programs, ranks highest among Emirati institutions. 

The American University of Sharjah and the University of Sharjah are also prominently featured. These universities have diverse programs and significant international student populations. They host over 80,000 international students, reflecting the UAE’s status as a leading education hub in the region.

That said, here’s the list of top universities in the UAE alongside their average annual tuition fees.

University	Average Annual Tuition Fees (INR)
Khalifa University	INR 15L – INR 20L
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU)	INR 25L – INR 30L
American University of Sharjah (AUS)	INR  20L- INR 23L
University of Sharjah	INR 10L – INR 20L
Zayed University	INR 16L – INR 20L

1. Khalifa University (KU)

Khalifa University is a leading institution in the UAE, known for its strong emphasis on engineering and technology. According to the Young University Rankings 2024, Khalifa ranks 12th worldwide and top in MENA, attracting students from around the world. 

That’s not all; there’s more — KU collaborates with more than 50 private, public, and academic organisations worldwide. Through these partnerships, students explore exchange programs and multiple internship opportunities. Additionally, the university has 12 specialised research centres that provide exceptional learning to international students. 

Top Courses

At KU, students can choose from 16 Bachelor’s degree programs, 20 Master’s degree programs, and 6 PhD degree programs. Here are some of the most popular courses. 

• Engineering
• Computer Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Chemistry
• Physics

Entry Requirements

• International students seeking admission to undergraduate programs must demonstrate English proficiency, with a minimum score of 6 in the IELTS exam and a minimum score of 79 in the TOEFL iBT.
• For master’s degree programs, a minimum score of 91 in TOEFL iBT and an overall academic IELTS score of 6.5 are required.
• A minimum quantitative score of 150 in the General Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required for Master of Science programs. 

Student Testimonial

“My journey at KU of Science and Technology has been life-changing. The analytical skills and research proficiency I have gained in KU has helped me.” – Abhijith Suboyin

2. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU)

Established in 1976, the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is the oldest and one of the most prestigious universities in the UAE. According to the Arab University Ranking 2023, it ranks 1st in the UAE and 3rd in the Arab world.  In the QS Rankings for 2024, it secures the 290th position globally and is recognised among the top 100 for Employment Outcomes.

The UAEU currently houses approximately 14,000 Emirati and international students. With a cutting-edge, state-of-the-art campus and a range of curricular activities for students, UAEU offers a learning environment like no other. 

Top Courses

UAEU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs through nine Colleges: Food and Agriculture, Business and Economics, Medicine and Health Sciences, Engineering, Education, Humanities and Social Sciences, IT, Law, and Science. 

Below are some of the popular courses offered at the university. 

• Business and Economics
• Engineering
• Law
• Medical and Health Sciences
• Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine

Entry Requirements

• International students can enrol in the UAEU study programs during the first or second semesters of the academic year.
• A high school certificate or its equivalent, with a minimum grade of 80%, is mandatory.
• Must showcase English proficiency score, with a minimum score of 5.5 in IELTS or TOEFL ITP 525/ IBT (70).

Student Testimonial

“My experience at UAEU has been both eye-opening and enriching. Specialising in language and literacy studies at the university has allowed me to rethink the definition of literacy as well as reflect on my pedagogical thoughts and practices. I will forever be grateful to be part of a research-driven community that always attempts to address global and regional present-day educational matters. “ – Fajr Alkouz

3. American University of Sharjah (AUS)

The American University of Sharjah (AUS) is a private university known for its liberal arts and science programs. Established in 1997, AUS has a diverse student body and a strong academic reputation, attracting students from across the globe.

What’s more? AUS ranks #364 in QS World University Rankings 2024. AUS houses students from over 90 nations, making the campus a colourful blend of different cultures. 

Top Courses

AUS provides 28 majors and 45 minors for undergraduates, 15 master’s degree programs and 4 PhD programs provided via the following academic divisions:

• College of Architecture, Art, and Design
• College of Arts and Sciences
• College of Engineering
• School of Business Administration

At AUS, you’ll find courses that cater to your career goals. Some of the top ones are: 

• Architecture
• Business Administration
• Engineering
• Finance
• Business Analytics

Entry Requirements

• International students seeking admission to bachelor’s and master’s programs must demonstrate English proficiency, with a minimum score of 6.5 in IELTS and 80 in TOEFL iBT.
• Students must provide a Certificate of Equivalency for their secondary education certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education.

Student Testimonial

“Ever since I joined AUS in 2007, architecture and design have become an integral part of my life both as an academic and a professional.  My undergraduate education has allowed me to explore and engage with the socio-cultural, political and economic factors that shape the contextual frameworks in which conceptual and tangible manifestations are materialised in the Gulf – it fundamentally developed my creativity as a designer and my curiosity as a researcher.” – Maryam Mudhaffar

4. University of Sharjah (UOS)

Did you know that the University of Sharjah is ranked 465th in the QS World University Rankings 2024? Founded in 1997, UOS is recognised for its comprehensive academic programs and significant contributions to research. 

The UOS residential university has over 18,464 students living on campus. Campus facilities include a food court, healthcare services, and beauty salons. 

Top Courses

The University of Sharjah provides over 130 varied academic programs at bachelor, graduate diploma, master, and PhD levels through its 15 colleges. All the programs are accredited by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the Ministry of Education in the United Arab Emirates. 

Here are some of the popular courses you can choose from.

• Medicine
• Engineering
• Islamic Studies
• Sociology
• Physics
• Computer Science

Entry Requirements

• International students must be graduates of a school recognised by the official education authority in the respective Country of study.
• Students must score 1,110 on the EmSAT exam to be admitted to the Law (English) program.

5. Zayed University

In the QS World University Rankings 2023, Zayed University is ranked 451-500 in the field of Social Sciences & Management. Established in 1998, the university has campuses in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The best part? Zayed University empowers Emirati women and fosters leadership and innovation among its students, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Top Courses

At Zayed University, the number of undergraduate degree graduates is 22,388, while the number of postgraduate degree graduates is 2,612. Some of the popular courses offered by the university include the following:

• Business
• Communication and Media Sciences
• International Studies
• Accounting
• Finance
• Animation Design

Entry Requirements

• International students seeking admission to the English program at Zayed University must demonstrate English proficiency, with a minimum score of 6 in IELTS or 213 CBT in TOEFL.
• For graduate programs in Arabic and English, students must have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline from an accredited university recognised by the UAE Ministry of Education.

Intakes at Top Universities in the United Arab Emirates

The academic calendar in universities across the UAE is designed to accommodate a diverse and growing student population through multiple intakes each year. According to recent data from 2023, the UAE hosts over 2,95,000 higher education students, with a significant portion being international students.

The inbound mobility ratio for international students in the UAE stands at an impressive 48.6%, one of the highest in the world​​. This high ratio reflects the UAE’s appeal as a study destination, bolstered by flexible visa policies and opportunities for part-time work for students like you​​.

These multiple intakes — Fall, Spring, and Summer — allow you to begin your studies at different times of the year, ensuring that all educational opportunities are accessible to you.

Here is a table showcasing the intake periods at the top universities in the United Arab Emirates.

Intake	Start Month	Application Deadline
Fall	September	April to July
Spring	January	October to December
Summer	May/June	March to April

Scholarships Available in the UAE

The UAE offers a variety of scholarships for both local and international students, promoting higher education and attracting talented individuals to the top universities in the United Arab Emirates. 

The top universities in the United Arab Emirates provide scholarships ranging from 50% to 100% waiver of tuition fees, which can reduce your cost from INR 20L per se to INR 10L or even completely free. 

Here are some of the best scholarships that will make studying at the top universities in the United Arab Emirates super affordable. 

Scholarships at Top Universities in the United Arab Emirates	Scholarship Name	Coverage
UAE Ministry of Education	Ministry of Education Scholarships	100% tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs
Khalifa University	President’s Scholarship, Chancellor’s Scholarship	Up to 100% tuition fees
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU)	Chancellor’s Fellowship, Graduate Research Scholarships	Up to 100% tuition coverage
American University of Sharjah (AUS)	Chancellor’s Scholars Award	Up to 100% tuition coverage

Let’s now take a look at the details of these scholarships.

1. The UAE Ministry of Education Scholarships

The Ministry of Education offers scholarships to Emirati students studying abroad at top universities. These scholarships typically cover 100% of tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. The aim is to equip students with advanced skills and knowledge to contribute to the nation’s development.

2. Khalifa University Scholarships

Khalifa University offers full scholarships to Emirati and international students for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These scholarships include coverage of 100% of tuition fees, monthly stipends ranging from INR 1.8L to INR 2.7L, and accommodation. Specific scholarships include the President’s Scholarship and the Chancellor’s Scholarship.

3. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Scholarships

UAEU offers a variety of scholarships to undergraduate and postgraduate students. The Chancellor’s Fellowship provides full tuition coverage. The Graduate Research Scholarships cover tuition fees and provide additional funding for research expenses ranging from 100% waiver to 50% waiver.

4. American University of Sharjah (AUS) Scholarships

AUS provides numerous scholarships and financial aid options. The Chancellor’s Scholars Award offers up to 100% tuition coverage for academically outstanding students. Merit-based scholarships can cover up to 75% of tuition fees, while need-based financial aid is tailored to the student’s financial situation.

English Proficiency Tests Required at Top Universities in the United Arab Emirates

Demonstrating proficiency in English is a critical requirement for admission to top universities in the United Arab Emirates, especially for international students and non-native English speakers. Most universities require applicants to submit scores from standardised English proficiency tests to ensure they have the necessary language skills to succeed in their academic programs.

Following are the scores required for each test.

Test	Minimum Scores
IELTS	6
TOEFL iBT	79
PTE Academic	50
Cambridge English Qualifications	180

Introduction to Public and Private Universities in the UAE

The UAE’s higher education landscape comprises public and private universities offering unique advantages. The government funds public universities in the UAE for international students and focuses on providing high-quality education with vital research programs. They primarily serve the local population while welcoming international students. 

Private universities, financed through tuition fees and private investments, attract a diverse international student body with their flexible curricula, innovative teaching methods, and extensive global partnerships. 

Let’s take a closer look at the difference between public and private universities.

Feature	Public Universities	Private Universities
Education Quality	High standards with strong government support and funding.	High standards with global partnerships and private investments.
Curriculum	Traditional, often aligned with national priorities.	Flexible, quickly adapt to market demands.
Research Opportunities	Extensive government-funded research programs.	Industry-aligned research, often innovative.
Faculty	Experienced, often with strong academic credentials.	Internationally diverse, with global academic backgrounds.
Student Diversity	Higher proportion of local Emirati students.	Greater cultural and international diversity.
Global Affiliations	Limited, primarily national collaborations.	Many global partnerships and dual degree programs.

Range of Degrees and Courses Available in Both Sectors

Public universities offer comprehensive engineering, business, health sciences, and education programs that perfectly align with national priorities. 

On the other hand, private universities provide many contemporary programs in business administration, architecture, media, information technology, and international relations, rapidly adapting to the latest market demands and industry trends.  

Public Universities

Public universities typically offer various undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across various disciplines. Key areas of focus include:

• Engineering and Technology
• Business and Economics
• Health Sciences and Medicine
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Education and Teaching

Public universities often have vital research programs, particularly in fields that align with national priorities such as energy, sustainability, and public health.

Private Universities

Private universities also offer diverse programs with a significant emphasis on contemporary and interdisciplinary fields. Common areas of study include:

• Business Administration
• Architecture and Design
• Media and Communication
• Information Technology
• International Relations

Private institutions often introduce new programs more rapidly in response to industry trends and student demand, providing courses closely aligned with current market needs.

Student Visa Requirements to Study in the United Arab Emirates for International Students

To study in the United Arab Emirates, international students must obtain a student visa. As of 2023, over 8,000 student visas were accepted in the UAE.  In fact, it’s advisable to start the visa application process well in advance, as processing times may vary – typically around 15-20 working days.

The visa application process typically requires the following documents.

• Valid passport
• Up to 12 passport-size photographs of dimensions 43mm x 55 mm
• Offer letter from a UAE university
• Proof of sufficient funds (approx. INR 16L per year)
• Medical certificates
• Police clearance certificate
• Student visa application fee (approx. INR 9,000)

Besides, there are different types of student visas to study in the United Arab Emirates. Here’s a snapshot table listing critical details on both kinds.

Visa Type	Approx. Visa Fee (INR)
Student Visa	INR 9,000
Visit Visa (for short courses)	INR 5,000

The details for the visas are listed below.

Student Visa

• Required for international students planning to study in the UAE for longer programs (over 180 days).
• Must have an offer of admission from a UAE university or institute.
• Need to prove sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs (approx. INR 16L for one year).
• Visa validity depends on the duration of your course.

Visit Visa (for short courses)

• For international students attending short courses or programs in the UAE (typically less than three months).
• May need to provide evidence of sufficient funds and travel arrangements (approx. INR 16L for one year).
• Cannot work or undertake a long-term course of study.

It’s important to note that student visa requirements and fees can vary depending on the student’s nationality and the specific university or emirate in the UAE. It is recommended that you check with the university or the nearest UAE embassy/consulate for the most up-to-date information and specific requirements.

Also Read: UAE Golden Visa for Indian Citizens

Highest Paying Jobs in UAE

Wondering what will be the return on the investment you make in your education from the top universities in the United Arab Emirates? 

Well, here’s the thing – UAE’s economy has transformed significantly over the decade, and it is expected to surge by 5% in 2024. The average salary for most fields ranges from INR 25L – INR 70L.  If you compare this with the initial cost you will invest into studying here, you will realise that what you invest today will be recovered within one year of your placement.  

Besides, degrees from the top universities in the United Arab Emirates are globally recognized. This means that you will be able to get high-paying jobs anywhere in the world, not only in the UAE.

Having said that, here’s a table with average salaries. Have a look.

Sector	Average Annual Salary
Public Relations Managing Director	INR 68L
Bank Manager	INR 34L
IT Manager	INR 20L
Management Consultant	INR 34L
Creative Director	INR 46L

Please Note: These are just indicative figures. Actual salaries can be much higher based on individual experience and skills. 

Summing Up

The United Arab Emirates has swiftly emerged as a prominent global education hub, attracting over 80,000 international students in the 2023-2024 academic year. The Country’s commitment to quality education is evident in its 120 higher education institutions, which include top-ranked universities like Khalifa University, UAEU, and NYU Abu Dhabi. 

With average annual tuition fees of top universities in the United Arab Emirates ranging from INR 10L to INR 30L and extensive scholarship opportunities covering up to 100% of costs, the UAE makes world-class education accessible to a diverse student population. 

The UAE’s strategic location, state-of-the-art facilities, and emphasis on innovation and technology position it as a leading destination for higher education. Furthermore, the country’s focus on integrating advanced technologies ensures graduates are well-prepared for the future job market. 

Government initiatives and supportive policies further enhance the educational landscape, making the UAE a preferred choice for students seeking a holistic and globally recognised education. 

Frequently Asked Questions