Affordable Universities In Dubai for Indian Students
Dubai has become one of the best places for students to get a good education in a lively, international setting. As per the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) annual report, the number of international students grew by a record 29% in 2024-25, and they now make up 35% of the total student body.
This spike in number can be credited to the top universities branches in Dubai providing Indian students an option to study in the world's leading institutes at an affordable cost. The average cost of studying in Dubai ranges from AED 37,000 to AED 70,000. This is approximately INR 8.8 lakh to INR 1,665,330.
And, in this pool of universities there are certain affordable universities in Dubai which match completely with the budget of an Indian student. And, in this blog we will give you a list of top 10 low-cost universities in Dubai with their average tuition fees, popular programmes so you can pick the best universities in Dubai for you.
Top 9 Affordable Universities in Dubai for International Students
There are many low-cost universities in Dubai that are open to international students who want to get a good education without breaking the bank. Here is the list of affordable universities in Dubai for undergraduate programme:
| University | UG Average Tuition Fee Per Year in AED |
|---|---|
Nest Academy of Management Education, Dubai | AED 16,515 (INR 392,891) |
Regent Middle East | AED 35,700 (NR 849,243) |
Manipal University Dubai (MAHE / Manipal Academy of Higher Education) | AED 42,000 (INR 999,180) |
University of Europe for Applied Sciences – Dubai | AED 54,610 (INR 1,299,956) |
University of Wollongong Dubai | AED 60,429 (INR 1,437,654) |
Middlesex University Dubai | AED 62,982 (INR INR 1,498,397) |
Heriot-Watt University Dubai | AED 79,100 (INR 1,701,285) |
University of Birmingham Dubai (parent University of Birmingham) | AED 124,343 (INR 2,958,181) |
Curtin University Dubai | AED 170,100 (INR 4,046,079) |
Nest Academy of Management Education
Nest Academy is licensed by KHDA (Knowledge & Human Development Authority – Dubai) and offers credit-bearing UK qualifications at all levels in new-age careers. This university is focused on providing skill-based qualifications that go with the new age industry requirements and is counted on the top of the list of most affordable universities in Dubai. It is best known for its business management programmes and is a wonderful place to meet new people and build a strong network for professional and personal development.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Campus Location | Dubai International Academic City |
| Avg Tuition Fees | AED 16,515 (INR 392,891) |
| Popular Courses | Business, Management |
| English Language Requirements | IELTS 6.0 or equivalent |
Regent Middle East
The second on the list of low-cost universities in Dubai is Regent Middle East, a part of Regent Group from the UK. This university is known to provide multiple skill-based undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Additionally, the university promises a swift move to the UK with its robust placement and support. At the campus, students will enjoy a vibrant community of international students supported by state-of-the-art facilities.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Campus Location | Dubai International Academic City |
| Avg Tuition Fees | AED 35,700 (NR 849,243) |
| Popular Courses Field | Business, Finance, Management |
| English Language Requirements | IELTS 6.0 or equivalent |
Manipal University Dubai
Manipal University Dubai has a solid 25 years of presence and is recognised both as one of the most affordable universities in Dubai and for its excellent education. Here students can find more than 50 programmes spread across five schools and 7 disciplines. With an experienced and dynamic campus life at Manipal Dubai, where diverse activities, vibrant traditions, and a multicultural community come together to create a truly enriching journey.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Campus Location | Dubai International Academic City |
| Avg Tuition Fees | AED 42,000 (INR 999,180) |
| Popular Courses Field | Engineering, Business, IT |
| English Language Requirements | IELTS 6.0 or equivalent |
University of Wollongong Dubai
The University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) is the first international Australian university in the UAE. With over 40 internationally accredited degrees, it is one of the top affordable universities in Dubai. Studying in Wollongong Dubai gives students an opportunity to become a part of its global alumni network, spanning more than 152,000 working professionals across four international campuses. Apart from being an affordable university to study at in Dubai, it promises employability within 6 months of graduation, which is the ultimate goal of international students going to study abroad.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Campus Location | Dubai Silicon Oasis |
| Avg Tuition Fees | AED 60,429 (INR 1,437,654) |
| Popular Courses Field | Engineering, Business, IT |
| English Language Requirements | IELTS 6.5 or equivalent |
University of Europe for Applied Sciences
The University of Europe for Applied Sciences is the first German university in Dubai, offering the best of German education and being one of the low-cost universities in Dubai. It is known for its excellent programmes in tech and business. With licensing from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and accreditation from Germany (Brandenburg), students will receive the highest quality of education that’s recognised worldwide.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Campus Location | Dubai Silicon Oasis |
| Avg Tuition Fees | AED 54,610 (INR 1,299,956) |
| Popular Courses Field | Business, Media, Design |
| English Language Requirements | IELTS 6.0 or equivalent |
Middlesex University Dubai
Middlesex University-Dubai, one of the UK's premier institutions, offers an option of low-cost universities in Dubai. International students can opt for its wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes ranging from healthcare to media communications, psychology, account and finance and many more. At Middlesex Dubai, students can become a part of its global alumni network that leverages the solid professional and personal development of students.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Campus Location | Dubai Knowledge Park |
| Avg Tuition Fees | AED 62,982 (INR INR 1,498,397) |
| Popular Courses Field | Business, Law, Engineering |
| English Language Requirements | IELTS 6.0 or equivalent |
Heriot-Watt University Dubai
With 20 years of presence in Dubai, Heriot-Watt University is known for its research programmes and is also on the list of most affordable universities in Dubai, isn’t that great! Heriot-Watt University is one of the first overseas universities to set up in Dubai, offering top-quality British education in the Gulf. At Heriot-Watt you can benefit from its global network of people and also try international transfers for better exposure and learning.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Campus Location | Dubai International Academic City |
| Avg Tuition Fees | AED 71,500 (INR 1,701,285) |
| Popular Courses Field | Engineering, Business, Design |
| English Language Requirements | IELTS 6.0 or equivalent |
University of Birmingham Dubai
The University of Birmingham was the first global top 100 and UK Russell Group university to establish a campus in Dubai. It is known for its leadership, sustainability programmes, and low university fees. Here the faculty and the institution are focused on providing the most modern-day subjects with deep research and a technically focused environment to develop students truly for the future.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Campus Location | Dubai International Academic City |
| Avg Tuition Fees | AED 124,343 (INR 2,958,181) |
| Popular Courses Field | Engineering, Business, Law |
| English Language Requirements | IELTS 6.5 or equivalent |
Curtin University Dubai
Curtin University Dubai is another one of the affordable universities in Dubai, known for its research excellence. 95 per cent of Curtin’s research is ranked at world standard or above. It is known to work closely with industry and government, providing extensive work opportunities in the fields of health sciences, astronomy, economics, minerals and energy and crop disease management. At Curtin University, Dubai campus, students can truly build a future in innovative technology and research.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Campus Location | Dubai International Academic City |
| Avg Tuition Fees | AED 170,100 (INR 4,046,079) |
| Popular Courses Field | Business, IT, Health Sciences |
| English Language Requirements | IELTS 6.0 or equivalent |
Why is Dubai an affordable option to study abroad?
Studying in Dubai has emerged as a cost-effective alternative to traditional study destinations for several key reasons, primarily due to its globally adaptive educational model and strategic government initiatives inviting international students to study, work and live the exciting and thriving life of Dubai.
1. Lower Tuition Fees at Branch Campuses: Many of the top universities in Dubai are international branch campuses of prestigious institutions from the UK, USA, and Australia. These branch campuses often have lower tuition fees compared to their home campuses, as they benefit from reduced operational costs and government support. For example, a degree from Heriot-Watt University in Dubai is typically more affordable than the same degree from its UK campus.
2. Competitive Cost of Living: While Dubai's reputation for luxury is well-known, the city offers a wide range of affordable accommodation options for students. Shared accommodation, public transportation (the Dubai Metro), and budgeting for food can significantly lower a student's monthly living expenses in Dubai.
Accommodation: Renting a shared apartment or a room in a student hostel is a popular and budget-friendly choice.
Transportation: The Nol Card for public transport is a very economical way to get around the city.
Student Discounts: Many businesses, from restaurants to entertainment venues, offer special discounts for students, further reducing costs.
3. Abundant Scholarships and Financial Aid: Many universities in Dubai offer merit-based and need-based scholarships, with some providing up to a 50% tuition fee reduction. These scholarships, combined with early enrolment discounts, can make a significant difference in the total cost of education.
4. Simplified Visa and Post-Study Work Policies: With 90% of visa application success rate, the Dubai student visa is known for being faster and more straightforward than in many Western countries. Furthermore, Dubai's focus on retaining talent means it offers attractive post-study work and residency permits, including long-term visas for graduates, which enhances career prospects without additional long-term visa costs.
Dubai is attracting both international universities and students to become a top study destination hub. The city’s fastest-growing economy, lifestyle and diverse demography make it a great spot for students to pursue higher education. International students, particularly from India, can benefit from the closeness of their home country, enjoy a global university campus and education and a relatively lower cost. Additionally, Dubai supports international students' lifestyles by promoting part-time job opportunities, healthy wages for students and smooth post-study work visas.
Thus, if you are in search of affordable universities in Dubai, connect with AECC counsellors to find out more about studying abroad, including how to get financial help and scholarships. To make learning in Dubai a reality, AECC can help with applying to universities, getting visas, and finding the best financial aid for studying in Dubai.