Studying in Dubai
The 'Pearl of the Arabian Gulf', the area of Dubai is 3885 km?, equivalent to 5% of the United Arab Emirates' total area excluding the islands. The Emirate's population is 20,03,170 (2011). A water creek known as Khour-Dubai, 10 Kilometres long, dividing the town into two divisions, penetrates Dubai City. The Southern division, known as Bur-Dubai, comprises the Ruler's office, head offices and major companies, banks, custom, port, broadcast station and postal authority. The most significant landmarks are the Dubai World Trade Center, the Zoo and Al-Jumeirah Coast Park. The Northern division, known as Diera, is the center of business and tourism and comprises most shops, markets, schools, hotels, clubs and Dubai International Airport. Al-Maktoum and Al-Garhoud Bridges and Al-Shindagah Tunnel, which passes under the creek, link the two divisions.
Jebel Ali area is considered one of the most significant industrial and commercial areas in the whole country. It has the largest free trade zone in the Middle East. Due to its location, Dubai has become a connecting link between the West and the Indian subcontinent, the Far East and Africa since time immemorial. Traditional Arab hospitality complemented by a highly sophisticated infrastructure have contributed to a perfect atmosphere for the development of tourism. Dubai is endowed with an extensive coastline, sandy beaches and varied landscape where a wide variety of activities can be indulged, ranging from powerboat races to sand skiing. Manicured golf courses provide ready enjoyment and for the less active, shopping opportunities abound. In addition, the country's deep-rooted cultural heritage, accessible in the many cultural centers, has been a powerful attraction for tourists. Dubai has also become a much sought after venue for conferences, regional and international exhibitions and major sports events.
Why Study in Dubai
Dubai is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates. It is famous for its Nouveau Arab architecture. Dubai is the desert city-state on the shores of the beautiful Arabian Gulf, replete with clean, sandy beaches and clear blue green waters. It has an ancient heritage that survives amidst the skyscrapers and highways of a modern, cosmopolitan city. This "Pearl of the Arabian Gulf", concentrated mainly on its exquisite creek, the finest natural shelter in 1600 km (1000 miles) of coastline, ranks as the UAE's most important port and commercial center. Dubai is truly cosmopolitan. The fastest growing economy in the world. Learning is comparatively cheaper because of the education policies of Dubai. One would spend double the amount for the same learning else where than here. Due to vast development activities especially in the area of infrastructure, trade and commerce, the possibilities of finding on job training as well as full time employment are ample. The UAE is hospitable, Secure and caring. Entertainment is endless here. It is also called the city of events and all the world's best musicians, theatres and performers come here for entertainment. The cosmopolitan culture itself is a great bonus for a learner to know the social etiquette that are necessary in today's world.
Cost of Studying in Dubai
The cost of Undergraduate study would range from AED 50000- 70000 per year
The cost of Post graduate study would range from AED 60000-75000 per year
Accommodation in Dubai
Accommodation in Dubai can be divided into on-campus and off-campus accommodation, as is the case with most study-abroad destinations.
On-campus accommodation in Dubai: The popular option in Dubai is on-campus accommodation. But considering the top universities in Dubai have limited number of seats, which, in turn ,tend to fill up quickly, you have to start early to stand a chance. Also, starting your search early is the right approach if you want to have your pick of accommodation type. For example, in case of Middlesex University Dubai, early starters can choose from single, shared and shared (premium). Late arrivers, meanwhile, will be left with leftovers and can’t pick and choose.
Coming to costs and sticking with Middlesex University Dubai as a model; at AED 55,000, single Type A rooms are the most expensive. So, for students looking for cheaper options Type D, Type E and Type G, with their low costs can be ideal choices, provided they are ready to share space with other students. Students need to bear in mind that studying abroad is a costly exercise, and so being flexible can be a great virtue, like the money saved in accommodation can be spent in buying books or even entertainment. This is not to say that one shouldn’t pay attention to comfort and convenience, or even safety, as they are equally important. After all whether you are studying civil engineering in Dubai or studying MBA in Dubai, a lot is riding on your shoulders –whether it is money or future!
Cost of on-campus accommodation in Dubai (September- May) for new joiners (Middlesex University Dubai)
Room Type | Costs (AED) |
---|---|
Type A - Single | 55,000 |
Type B - Shared x2 | 32,000 |
Type C - Shared x 2 (premium) | 38,000 |
Type D - Shared x3 | 25,000 |
Type E - Shared x3 (upgraded) | 27,000 |
Type F - Shared x3 (premium) | 29,000 |
TYPE G – Shared x4 | 22,000 |
Cost of student on-campus accommodation 1``11in Dubai during summers (June - Sep ) (Middlesex University Dubai)
Room Type | Costs (AED) |
---|---|
Type A - Single | 27,500 |
Type B - Shared x2 | 16,000 |
Type C - Shared x 2 (premium) | 19,000 |
Type D - Shared x3 | 12,500 |
Type E - Shared x3 (upgraded) | 13,500 |
Type F - Shared x3 (premium) | 14,500 |
Private accommodation in Dubai:
Though not the first choice of students, private accommodation is an unavoidable reality for many students studying in Dubai. So, if you are also gearing up to study in Dubai, it won’t be a bad idea to check out a few private accommodations in advance.
Here we bring you average annual cost of staying at a private or off-campus accommodation in Dubai ( Source: Canadian University Dubai):
Apartment | Cost |
---|---|
Modest, 1 bedroom | AED 70,000 - 85,000 |
Modest, 2 bedrooms | AED 85,000 - 100,000 |
Good quality, 1 bedroom | AED 100,000 - 120,000 |
Good quality, 2 bedrooms | AED 120,000 - 140,000 |
Good quality, 3 bedrooms | AED 140,000 - 190,000 |
In case of private accommodation, you have greater choices than on-campus accommodation, but then again you need to be very careful with your research because accommodation rackets are a reality in Dubai. Some concerns you have to be deal with while finalizing your private accommodation in Dubai is how far it is from the university and what are add-on facilities being offered. You must also insist on a written agreement of the deal, one that is officially recognized.
As for the chart, we can repeat the same thing that we addressed in the earlier point. That is if you are ready to be flexible, you can save some valuable Dirham’s. Also, even students who are studying in Dubai on scholarships can heed these suggestions as every penny saved will make life easier.
Dubai isn’t the most expensive city in the world, the cost of living in Dubai is also not cheap by any means, especially when it is equivalent to the likes of Paris and is more expensive than Toronto. So, you need to be careful with your money while studying in Dubai.
Application Requirements and deadline
Dubai Offers As Many As 6 Different When You Consider Applications To Different University (January, May, July, August, September, November)
- List Of Admission Documents Required To Study In Dubai
- Attested copies of all your certificates X, XII & Graduate Degree (if applicable), Mark Sheets including Backlogs (re-sits)
- Evidence of English Language proficiency e.g. IELTS, TOEFL, etc. (if applicable)
- Standardised Tests e.g. IELTS, GMAT, GRE (if applicable)
- Letter of Recommendation as required by the Institute (Min. 2) (preferably from employer if you have been working after your graduation)
- Passport sized photographs
- Passport photocopy (front and last page)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP – Institute Specific)
- Resume
- Draft for application fees, if applicable
- Design Portfolio (for Art, Design & Architecture Courses)
- Certificates & Achievements of Extracurricular Activities (if available)
Note: The above mentioned documents are based on the general prerequisites and are subjected to the requirement of universities and individual courses in Dubai.
Employment Opportunity in Dubai
Work and study in Dubai: The entertainment capital of the world, Dubai has set its sights on becoming an academic hotspot. Helping it in its pursuit is a slew of reputed universities. Another reason why international students are increasingly exploring the city as a study destination is because it allows international students to work during study in Dubai. The fact is Dubai is still a greenhorn in higher education, while countries like the USA and the UK are old hands. So low cost of education isn’t enough to warranty Dubai a pie of international student community, because the leading countries allow students to work during study which cuts down cost of study. By allowing students to work during study in Dubai, it then plays to its twin strengths: low cost of study and opportunity to earn during study.
If we talk of international students, they are always on the lookout for work opportunities to earn a few extra bucks. Interestingly though, not many students want to work just for the sake of money, but rather want to use the opportunity to put to practical test what they have learnt in the classroom. Then there are others who take it as stepping stone to the much wider professional world. Whatever way you look at it, work during study in Dubai benefits a student in more ways than one. A follow-up question then is what are the rules and guidelines to work during study for international students in Dubai?
Here we explore the rules and regulations binding work during study in Dubai for international students:
University sponsorship and UAE Labor law
If you have a university sponsorship, you just need to approach the UAE Labor department to obtain a permit which will allow you to take up part-time work in Dubai, legally.
Before the promulgation of the present law, international students were required to transfer their university sponsorship to their employers. This had put students at the mercy of their employers, who exploited them in different ways, with non-payment of dues being one of them. The latest decree has also put a halt to instances where a student gets trapped in a fraudulent contract.
It is a win-win situation for both employers and students
While the new law has plugged the loopholes present in part-time work for international students in Dubai, it has also made it that much easier for employers to approach students with job offers. Earlier, even those employers with good intent were wary to approach students because of the complicated legal process. The aftermath of the decree has seen a greater number of employers approaching university campuses to recruit students. In addition to university sponsored UAE Labor Law-approved part-time work opportunities, students can take up on-campus employment in Dubai as well.
On-campus work opportunities in Dubai
Most universities in Dubai allow you to pursue on-campus work opportunities in Dubai. Take for example, where on-campus work is seen as an extension of academic life and an opportunity to gain hands-on experience outside the classroom.
Some of the areas you can take up on-campus work in Dubai include library, departments, administrative offices and colleges of the university you are studying at. In addition, some even work in various outlets and facilities across the university. In case of countries like AUS, student employment is managed by the Student Employment Office (SEO).
Eligibility to take up on-campus employment in Dubai
To be eligible for on-campus employment at AUS, the student must:
- Be enrolled in a full-time undergraduate program (with minimum 12 credits) and completed at least a semester at AUS. Visiting and exchange students aren’t allowed to pursue on-campus work at the university
- Possess a minimum GPA of 2.2
When classes are in session, students are allowed to work up to 15 hours per week or 60 hours per month. However, during the summer and academic breaks, working hours can go up to as much as 40 hours per week or 160 hours per month. Meanwhile, wages can be anything between AED 15 to AED 30 per hour.
Students must keep in mind that they aren’t supposed to hold two jobs simultaneously. If found guilty you have to forfeit payment for the second job.
Whether you want to take up on-campus work in Dubai or off-campus work in Dubai, you are advised to go through all the legalities to avoid trouble. After all, you wouldn’t want to be on the wrong side of the law in the UAE, in which case your student visa might be cancelled putting your future hanging in the balance.
Visa Information
What are the different types of student visas in UAE?
Ans: Students who want to study in UAE are given the UAE Student Visa. Student visas are offered for full-time programmes. UAE students visas are valid for a period of 12 months. International students have to renew their student visa at the end of the 12 month period if their programme is longer than that period. For programmes of less than 12 months, international students are given short-term and long-term visas.
When should I apply for Student Visa?
Ans: While Universities start the UAE Student Visa process as soon as international students are accepted to the programme, ideally, the student visa process should start at least 1–2 months prior to the beginning of the semester, so that they can care of the other aspects of the departure checklist. It usually takes around 15–20 days for the visa to be processed, however, that depends from university to university. International students also have the option of choosing Express processing, which costs more than normal processing. Under Express processing, students can get the UAE Students Visa within 10 days.
Where do I apply for my student visa?
Ans: The UAE Student Visa for international students is facilitated by the top universities of UAE themselves. Students can directly send their documents to the university. Once the university sends you the offer letter for the programme and you accept it, it will initiate the Visa application process.
Do I have to appear for an interview?
Ans: No, the UAE student Visa does not require international students to appear for a separate visa interview. Students might be asked basic questions at the time of application and once they have landed in UAE to get their (offshore) visa on arrival.
Is there any age bar to apply for student visa?
Ans: No, there is no age bar to apply for the UAE Student Visa. Students are asked for their age at the time of applying. However, that is not considered at the time of visa processing, unless, the applicant is a minor. In case, the applicant is a minor, he/ she might have to furnish additional documents related to their guardians. Such things are usually taken care of at the time of applying for the programme.
Does my student visa allow me to work?
Ans: International students in UAE can take up as well as off-campus work. However, they would require permission for their university to explore such options. If students have university sponsorship, they can approach the UAE Labor department to obtain a permit to take up part-time jobs in UAE. On Campus, international students can work in libraries and administrative offices among others.
How do I check the status of my application?
Ans: International students can check with their universities about the status of their UAE student visa application. Once you apply for a student visa, it takes around 15–20 days for the visa to be processed. International students also have the option of getting their visas processed faster than the normal process. For this they have to apply through the express process, a facility available at most universities in UAE. Students have to pay an additional amount (depending on the university) and can get their visas processed within 10 days.
What happens when my Student Visa expires?
Ans: UAE Student Visas are valid for one year or 12 months. After 12 months, international students have to renew their student visas. For this, students have to fill a visa renewal application form and submit the same with their universities. Along with the visa application, students have to submit documents like original passport, valid Emirates ID card and passport size photographs among others. Students will be charged a visa renewal and health insurance fee.International students have to submit their visa renewal documents at least a month prior to the date of visa expiry.
Can I reapply for Student Visa if it is rejected or go for a review?
Ans: Depends. In most cases, students are required to contact the Registrar’s office of the university they have applied to. The office might either ask you to re-submit the visa application with proper documents or ask you to fill the fee refund form. There are, usually, three reasons why your UAE Student Visa could be rejected:
- The immigration body might deny it
- The university registrar might reject it
- The student might fail to clear the medical test(required under the Student visa application process)
What are the documents required to apply for Visa for education in UAE? (Please cover answer to "How much funds do I have to show the immigration authority?")
Ans: While the documentation process might vary from university to university, some of the commonly required documents for UAE Student Visa are:
- Coloured Passport copy valid at least for seven months.
- Coloured passport size photograph
- Filled University forms
- Tuition and Visa fee receipt copy
- Original Emirates ID (in case, the student possess one)
Why Process Through UES
When I was planning to go for higher studies. I was completely unaware of all the rules and regulations. I tried to gather all the information online and through friends. I was able to get most of the information but still I was facing small obstacles related to visa, fees, accommodation,etc.
I was bombarded with UES educational consultancy to contact them after visiting a study fair in my city.
I realised I still had some ground to cover and time was slowly running out. So I approached United educational consultants and they gave me the options of universities that they can help me get into. To be honest, all those universities were crap. I realised that they have tie up with those universities and United educational consultancy will not charge me. I played along with them. I got admitted into 3-4 universities from this educational consultants. United educational consultancies gave me a list of documents that I need to have before applying for universities and for visa purposes.
I did not require educational loan. But after meeting these educational agencies I realised that I need to hold the money in my account for 3 months. Only problem was I was having only 1 month to apply for visa and my course to start. This important fact I got to know after visiting UES. I do accept I did not do the research properly. But I did what was possible from my side asking other friends who went for studies. It was stressful time.
Since it was a important criteria to have money in my account for 3 months to get visa. After speaking with the educational consultant they gave me other option to take loan and use that to apply visa.
I went to Credila for loan. They provided the loan after having our house as a collateral. They mentioned that once I get the visa only then they can give me the loan. I got the loan, applied for visa and once I got the visa I flew abroad for my studies.
I got a mail from Credila that they are ready to release my payment. I told them I do not need the loan.
What I would advise is visit United educational consultant. No harm in visiting and meeting them. But do your research separately for the list of universities you want to apply and segregate them according to importance.
If the university you researched has tie up with UES educational consultants then don't think twice. Apply through them, they do not charge anything since they get paid through the university. The chances of getting accepted is also high. If any issues, these educational consultant will help you out with their representatives in the universities.
United educational Services Offered:
At UES, our team of expert counselors offers assistance in gaining admission to top Notch College of Australia. Any information regarding courses conducted by Universities & college is provided by our expert team of counselors. Other services provided include:
- UES will help in Selection of course and college
- UES will guide for Visa counseling
- UES will assist for Application procedure
- Offer Acceptance
- UES help in Visa filing
- Orientation sessions