Are there master's programs in Dubai that allow part-time study and working simultaneously?
Yes, Dubai offers part-time master's programs designed for working professionals, including University of Birmingham Dubai, Heriot-Watt University Dubai through Edinburgh Business School, Manipal Academy of Higher Education Dubai, Hult International Business School, and Middlesex and Murdoch University Dubai, typically held on weekday evenings or weekends.
You can absolutely study and work at the same time in Dubai, since several universities there run master's programs specifically built around a working professional's schedule. Your class timing and visa situation are the two main things to plan around.
Universities Offering Part-Time Master's in Dubai
| University | What They Offer |
|---|---|
| University of Birmingham Dubai | 24-month part-time programs including International Business, Computer Science, Public Health, LLM tracks |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | Flexible options via Edinburgh Business School (MBA, Finance), plus engineering and psychology master's |
| Manipal Academy of Higher Education Dubai | Dedicated evening and weekend batches for working professionals |
| Hult International Business School Dubai | Part-time Executive MBA format |
| Middlesex University Dubai / Murdoch University Dubai | Postgraduate pathways that accommodate working schedules |
What You Need to Know About Visa Rules
Classes are usually scheduled on weekday evenings from around 6 PM or on weekends to fit around full time employment. If you are a UAE resident or local employee, you can enroll freely while keeping your job, but if you are on a student visa you will need a part-time work permit arranged through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation along with a No Objection Certificate from your university.
My Advice
Confirm your visa category and NOC requirements with your chosen university before you enroll, since this step determines whether you can legally work alongside your part-time master's in Dubai.
More expert answers
Yes, you can pursue a master's degree while working in Dubai. Many universities offer flexible part-time, evening, or weekend master's programs designed for working professionals.
You can also consider online or blended learning options for even greater flexibility. If you are an international resident, you must comply with UAE regulations, including any required work permits or university approvals.
Yes, as an international master's student in Dubai, you can work part-time during your studies, but there are specific rules to follow.
- You may work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms.
- Full-time work is allowed only during official university breaks, and requires university approval.
- You must obtain a part-time work permit from the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your university.
- Your employer must apply for the work permit on your behalf.
Working without proper permits or exceeding allowed hours can result in penalties, including visa cancellation.
Looking for a specific course in UAE?
We will find the universities that offer it, and whether you will get in.
More Universities & admissions questions
- What are some effective online German language classes for Indian students preparing to study in Germany?
- By when should my HEP point be completed, should it be this month to avoid delay in UK?
- If I apply to two courses at the same university, do I need separate letters of recommendation for each course or can I use the same letter for both?
- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Is January 2027 intake possible for masters in business analytics in UK/UAE?
- Which universities in the USA offer MS Engineering Management for a B.Tech Automotive Engineering graduate, Duolingo 120 and ₹80 lakhs budget?
- Can I pursue an MBA abroad after completing a Bachelor of Science degree?
- Is it possible to study computer science with specialization in artificial intelligence in UK/New Zealand for a Master's?
More UAE questions
- Is there any scope for studying radiology in Dubai for a Postgraduate?
- Are golden visas available after education, and what are the eligibility criteria in UAE for a Master's/PhD?
- Which universities in the UAE offer MBA for a B.Pharm Pharmaceutical Sciences graduate, 4 years of work experience and ₹20 lakhs budget?
- Have you discussed your abroad education plan with your parents in UK/Australia?
- What scholarships are available for MSc or MBA in Real Estate programs in Dubai and what is the procedure to apply for them?
- Will I get accommodation allowance, monthly stipend, and medical insurance with scholarships in UAE?
- Does the America University of Sharjah provide scholarships based on credits and graduate assistantship for a Master's/PhD?
- How long is the cyber security course in Dubai for a Master's?