15 Cheapest Universities in United Arab Emirates for International Students

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In United Arab Emirates, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in United Arab Emirates without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in United Arab Emirates, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 22 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in United Arab Emirates, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in United Arab Emirates for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in United Arab Emirates ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Institute of Management Technology Dubai 31,300 AED 56%
Amity University Dubai 35,000 AED - 64,600 AED 50%
Ajman University 37,200 AED - 53,400 AED 47%
Al Ain University 39,000 AED - 51,000 AED 45%
Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai 43,600 AED - 57,800 AED 38%
Horizon University College 45,200 AED 36%
University of Sharjah 47,300 AED - 70,200 AED 33%
Abu Dhabi University 48,600 AED - 62,600 AED 31%
British University in Dubai 56,300 AED - 62,500 AED 20%
Higher Colleges of Technology 60,000 AED - 73,500 AED 14%
University of Wollongong in Dubai 60,500 AED 14%
University of Dubai 60,900 AED - 74,800 AED 13%
Middlesex University Dubai 64,600 AED 8%
Canadian University of Dubai 67,300 AED - 92,900 AED 4%
Zayed University 75,000 AED -7%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 69,800 AED for universities in United Arab Emirates.

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1. Institute of Management Technology Dubai

The Institute of Management Technology in Dubai is well known as an international business school. Students from a wide range of countries and educational backgrounds can enrol in recognized undergraduate and graduate programs through it. The campus is replete with cutting-edge amenities that support students as they discover their potential and take creative action to implement unique concepts and influence the world.

2. Amity University Dubai

Leading international institution Amity University Dubai is based in the United Arab Emirates and is part of a global network with campuses in more than eight other nations. The university provides over thirty programs to build a sustainable ecosystem that promotes research and learning in order to explore novel ideas and quicken the country’s transition to a knowledge-based economy. Here, students would discover the ideal environment for developing their potential.

3. Ajman University

Ajman University is one of the UAE’s most prestigious institutions. Such renown is not just because of the institution’s high placement in inter-university rankings and academic assessments. It’s also due to the university’s role in promoting inclusivity. Specifically, Ajman University is the first in the country to welcome expatriate students, a move that impacted not just the lives of the expatriates but also society.

4. Al Ain University

Al Ain University is renowned for its active contribution to knowledge development through excellent teaching and research. The institution places a high importance on community involvement and the regional and national effort to improve education. AAU upholds its reputation for excellence in the fields of education, research, and community service. Every student would be able to choose an appropriate learning environment to reach their full potential.

5. Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai

Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai, is a campus that is affiliated with Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India. One of the top universities in the UAE, it is committed to intellectual concepts, academic excellence, and knowledge in order to provide students with a fulfilling future in a changing world. To help students hone their talents, the university sponsors a number of clubs that are pertinent to particular programs.

6. Horizon University College

One of the well-known institutions in the United Arab Emirates, Horizon University College, promotes creativity and innovation while maintaining a focus on diversity and cultural fusion in order to create a society based on knowledge. The institution fosters the professional development of students from various cultural backgrounds in the disciplines of business, science, and technology as well as the inculcation of values for the benefit of society. Additionally, HUC prioritizes risk management in all facets of its business operations and ensures the health and safety of its students.

7. University of Sharjah

The University of Sharjah is a comprehensive educational institution with a unique teaching methodology and a worldwide perspective. It is a leader in the arts, excellent schools, and scientific research. Qualified and experienced professors instruct every course. Students are encouraged to pursue engineering, communication, science, and business majors to gain an education that contributes to an equitable society.

8. Abu Dhabi University

Abu Dhabi University is a multi-campus university dedicated to giving students an engaging educational atmosphere and an internationally regarded education. The university is acknowledged as a top-tier institution for teaching, student life, research, and executive education. As such, it gives graduates the education, expertise, and attitude they need to become tomorrow’s leaders who can help improve society.

9. British University in Dubai

The British University in Dubai has a well-established reputation as a research-focused educational organization eager to rank among the top institutions in the world. Through the use of the best and brightest educators, the institution aspires to create a society that is founded on education. It provides a top-notch educational system to students around the world so they may effortlessly attain their goals.

10. Higher Colleges of Technology

Higher Colleges of Technology is the first authorized university economic free zone in the United Arab Emirates, and the country’s largest applied higher education school. By offering educational pathways that meet business needs, the institution becomes an incubator for talent and skills to realize the national goal. HCT also strongly encourages women to make valuable contributions to national development that serve the greater good. The school employs a strategy to provide students with the values, abilities, and intellectual discipline that will enable them to impact UAE society positively.

11. University of Wollongong in Dubai

One of the greatest universities in Dubai is the University of Wollongong, which provides students with quality education and enables them to coexist in a distinctively multicultural setting that fosters academic success, personal development, and social development. The campus also has the most up-to-date infrastructure and technology, which allows blended learning. The university environment would be an ideal place for students to further their education.

12. University of Dubai

The University of Dubai is a renowned private university specializing in business, law, engineering, and information technology (IT) programs. Notably, such specialties are relevant to the institution that owns the university, which is the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. UD’s quality of education is also vetted by several national and international accreditation bodies, such as AACSB International.

13. Middlesex University Dubai

Middlesex University Dubai is the first overseas campus of the renowned Middlesex University based in London, UK. The vibrant, diverse, and multicultural campus takes delight in offering a unique student experience. Numerous undergraduate, graduate, and foundation programs are available at the university. In addition, it is dedicated to providing challenging academic programs through cutting-edge research, funding, and professional practice to meet the needs and aspirations of a broad group of students from across cultures and around the world.

14. Canadian University of Dubai

The doors of Canadian University Dubai were opened to showcase the top-notch Canadian educational system. The institution is dedicated to giving students a global academic experience that is governed by the highest standards of academic and business ethics, improving the personal and professional lives of the graduates and the communities they serve. The campus of CUD will provide potential students with a proper setting to develop their skills.

15. Zayed University

Zayed University proudly carries its name and is a national and regional pioneer in educational innovation. Domestic and international students are welcome at the university’s two advanced campuses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It aspires to revitalize the educational process by encouraging research and setting the foundation for lifelong learning that exceeds expectations and satisfies societal requirements for sustainable growth.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in United Arab Emirates for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in United Arab Emirates ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Wollongong in Dubai 7,846 AED - 9,415 AED 87%
United Arab Emirates University 19,200 AED - 44,000 AED 66%
Al Ain University 26,400 AED - 32,400 AED 54%
Zayed University 30,000 AED - 51,300 AED 47%
University of Sharjah 32,100 AED - 50,400 AED 43%
Ajman University 33,000 AED - 45,000 AED 42%
Abu Dhabi University 34,100 AED - 44,100 AED 40%
Institute of Management Technology Dubai 37,400 AED 34%
Amity University Dubai 38,500 AED - 49,500 AED 32%
Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai 42,600 AED - 57,800 AED 25%
American University in Dubai 53,500 AED - 56,200 AED 5%
Canadian University of Dubai 70,800 AED - 135,200 AED -25%
University of Dubai 72,800 AED - 102,100 AED -29%
New York University Abu Dhabi 74,700 AED -32%
Middlesex University Dubai 76,500 AED - 94,200 AED -36%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 56,200 AED for universities in United Arab Emirates.

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1. University of Wollongong in Dubai

One of the greatest universities in Dubai is the University of Wollongong, which provides students with quality education and enables them to coexist in a distinctively multicultural setting that fosters academic success, personal development, and social development. The campus also has the most up-to-date infrastructure and technology, which allows blended learning. The university environment would be an ideal place for students to further their education.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, University of Wollongong in Dubai should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 7,846 AED to 9,415 AED annually for their master's degree.

2. United Arab Emirates University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is United Arab Emirates University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at United Arab Emirates University is 19,200 AED to 43,920 AED.

The United Arab Emirates University is a premier national and research-intensive university that instills the importance and values of leadership, innovation, and community service into its students. It stands out as the country’s first university established by no less than UAE’s first president. UAEU’s international accreditations, world-class research centers, and high rankings among universities ensure that its students receive the best education and training.

3. Al Ain University

Al Ain University is renowned for its active contribution to knowledge development through excellent teaching and research. The institution places a high importance on community involvement and the regional and national effort to improve education. AAU upholds its reputation for excellence in the fields of education, research, and community service. Every student would be able to choose an appropriate learning environment to reach their full potential.

The tuition fee at Al Ain University for incoming international master’s students is 26,400 AED to 32,400 AED. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Zayed University

Another affordable university to consider in United Arab Emirates is Zayed University.

Zayed University proudly carries its name and is a national and regional pioneer in educational innovation. Domestic and international students are welcome at the university’s two advanced campuses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It aspires to revitalize the educational process by encouraging research and setting the foundation for lifelong learning that exceeds expectations and satisfies societal requirements for sustainable growth.

The tuition fee in Zayed University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 30,000 AED.

5. University of Sharjah

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, University of Sharjah has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 32,040 AED yearly.

The University of Sharjah is a comprehensive educational institution with a unique teaching methodology and a worldwide perspective. It is a leader in the arts, excellent schools, and scientific research. Qualified and experienced professors instruct every course. Students are encouraged to pursue engineering, communication, science, and business majors to gain an education that contributes to an equitable society.

6. Ajman University

Ajman University is one of the UAE’s most prestigious institutions. Such renown is not just because of the institution’s high placement in inter-university rankings and academic assessments. It’s also due to the university’s role in promoting inclusivity. Specifically, Ajman University is the first in the country to welcome expatriate students, a move that impacted not just the lives of the expatriates but also society.

7. Abu Dhabi University

Abu Dhabi University is a multi-campus university dedicated to giving students an engaging educational atmosphere and an internationally regarded education. The university is acknowledged as a top-tier institution for teaching, student life, research, and executive education. As such, it gives graduates the education, expertise, and attitude they need to become tomorrow’s leaders who can help improve society.

8. Institute of Management Technology Dubai

The Institute of Management Technology in Dubai is well known as an international business school. Students from a wide range of countries and educational backgrounds can enrol in recognized undergraduate and graduate programs through it. The campus is replete with cutting-edge amenities that support students as they discover their potential and take creative action to implement unique concepts and influence the world.

9. Amity University Dubai

Leading international institution Amity University Dubai is based in the United Arab Emirates and is part of a global network with campuses in more than eight other nations. The university provides over thirty programs to build a sustainable ecosystem that promotes research and learning in order to explore novel ideas and quicken the country’s transition to a knowledge-based economy. Here, students would discover the ideal environment for developing their potential.

10. Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai

Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai, is a campus that is affiliated with Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India. One of the top universities in the UAE, it is committed to intellectual concepts, academic excellence, and knowledge in order to provide students with a fulfilling future in a changing world. To help students hone their talents, the university sponsors a number of clubs that are pertinent to particular programs.

11. American University in Dubai

The American University in Dubai, a non-sectarian institution of higher learning, offers more than an American-style education to Emirati and international students. Its programs are accredited by the USA’s Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and other international accrediting bodies. AUD also provides a culturally diverse learning community to promote individual development, encourage societal progress, and cultivate better thinkers via outstanding instruction and scholarship opportunities.

12. Canadian University of Dubai

The doors of Canadian University Dubai were opened to showcase the top-notch Canadian educational system. The institution is dedicated to giving students a global academic experience that is governed by the highest standards of academic and business ethics, improving the personal and professional lives of the graduates and the communities they serve. The campus of CUD will provide potential students with a proper setting to develop their skills.

13. University of Dubai

The University of Dubai is a renowned private university specializing in business, law, engineering, and information technology (IT) programs. Notably, such specialties are relevant to the institution that owns the university, which is the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. UD’s quality of education is also vetted by several national and international accreditation bodies, such as AACSB International.

14. New York University Abu Dhabi

New York University Abu Dhabi is a degree-granting portal campus of the world-renowned New York University. The university invites, teaches, and welcomes global citizens to advance intercultural understanding and a better society. It aspires to transform global higher education and become a premier leader in the field. The university also ensures its students have the proper support and resources.

15. Middlesex University Dubai

Middlesex University Dubai is the first overseas campus of the renowned Middlesex University based in London, UK. The vibrant, diverse, and multicultural campus takes delight in offering a unique student experience. Numerous undergraduate, graduate, and foundation programs are available at the university. In addition, it is dedicated to providing challenging academic programs through cutting-edge research, funding, and professional practice to meet the needs and aspirations of a broad group of students from across cultures and around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in United Arab Emirates?

Applying to cheap universities in United Arab Emirates requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in United Arab Emirates for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in United Arab Emirates?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in United Arab Emirates. For example, one of the best affordable schools in United Arab Emirates is the Abu Dhabi University, which offers Mass Communication, Business Administration, and Human Nutrition and Dietetics to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Abu Dhabi University offers Educational Leadership, Special Education, and Strategic Leadership.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in United Arab Emirates, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in United Arab Emirates as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in United Arab Emirates for international students was helpful!