September 1, 2025 
The Gulf region has drawn a lot of interest of late in higher education and students are increasingly choosing to consider the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Oman when thinking about where to study. Of the four Gulf countries, Dubai has been a leader, mainly because it has up to date education infrastructure, international universities, and ties to many industry leaders from around the globe. But often students and parents will ask: should I study in Dubai, or other Gulf countries in 2025?
This blog compares the four Gulf countries and the pros and cons, covering the topics of admission, cost, living costs, opportunities, and prospects.
Why Study in Dubai?
If looking into higher education in the Gulf, Dubai will be the first stop. The city has many international universities with branch campuses of well-known international institutions. The University of Birmingham Dubai, Middlesex University Dubai, and Heriot-Watt University, for example, offer the same educational standard as their main campuses overseas.
There are many benefits to studying in Dubai:
- A degree that is recognized worldwide and enhances your employability.
- The opportunity to meet over 200 nationalities, providing a genuine multicultural learning experience.
- Internship and part-time job opportunities in one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
- A safe, modern city with excellent student infrastructure.
For those going to study in Dubai for Indian students after high school, you can enter undergraduate programs without foundation courses in most cases. The admission application process is very straightforward and recognizes all Indian curricula (CBSE, ISC, IB).
Study in Dubai for Indian Students After 12th
The UAE, and in particular Dubai, is the preferred option for Indian families due to its proximity and familiarity with culture. After completing 12th students, who want to study in Dubai, can select from many undergraduate courses such as Business, IT, Engineering, and Media.
Universities in Dubai have a relaxed admission process compared to Western countries. Admission may require English proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, but many universities in Dubai will offer the option of conditional admissions with English training at the university.
For students who are concerned about eligibility, you need to know how much of a gap is accepted to study in Dubai after 12th. Generally, the maximum gap of up to 2–3 years is accepted for undergraduate studies if the gap years are justified, either by legitimate experience, other programs or preparation for competitive exams.
Total Cost to Study in Dubai from India
How much does it cost to study in Dubai? The cost of studying in Dubai includes tuition fees as well as your cost of living.
- Tuition Fees: Tuition fees for undergraduate studies are typically around AED 40,000 to AED 80,000 per year (₹9–18 lakhs). Postgraduate fees can be even higher depending on the program.
- Cost of Living: The average cost of living in Dubai is around AED 3,000 to AED 5,000 (₹70,000–₹1,15,000) each month considering accommodation, food and transport.
Hence, the total expenditure to study in Dubai from India will be around ₹20–25 lakhs annually depending on the program and lifestyle. As compared to other Gulf countries like Oman or Bahrain, this is more expensive, yet Dubai will have international appreciation and better opportunities after studies.
Cost of Living in Dubai vs Other Gulf Countries
While Dubai’s living costs are higher than other countries such as Oman, Bahrain, or Saudi Arabia, this purchases affordability in other contexts. For stability, this includes better student accommodation, better public transports, better access to global brands, better access to part-time job opportunities.
For comparison:
- Dubai Usual Monthly Rent of AED 3,000-5,000 (₹70,000-₹1,15,000).
- Qatar Usual Monthly Rent of AED 2,500-4,000 (₹58,000-₹92,000).
- Oman Usual Monthly Rent of AED 2,000-3,500 (₹46,000-₹80,000).
While students can save dinero in other Gulf nations, Dubai has a structure which, under most discussion, offers better intersection of education, lifestyle and career.
Best Courses to Study in Dubai in 2025
Dubai has established a reputation in a variety of industries and this reflects the demands of these programs. Some of the best programs to study in Dubai in 2025 are:
- Business Administration & Management: With Dubai being a global center for business, business degrees are incredibly sought-after.
- Information Technology & Artificial Intelligence: The UAE are investing a lot of money in AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.
- Engineers and Architecture: The expansion of infrastructure projects creates high demand for engineering graduates.
- Hospitality & Tourism Management: One of the best courses to study in Dubai considering Dubai is known as a top tourist destination.
- Media, Communications & Design: Rapidly expanding media industries create a great opportunity for graduates.
Making the right choice of program, assists students and potential students with aligning their studies to the current demands of the market to increase their employability after graduation.
How to Study in Dubai as an International Student
In case you’re asking how to study in Dubai, it’s pretty straightforward compared to other countries:
- Choose University and Course: Research which programs align with your career goals.
- Submit Application: Apply online and submit a copy of your transcripts, passport, and English proficiency scores.
- Receive Offer of Admission: Once accepted into a University in Dubai, pay the initial tuition fees to secure your place.
- Apply for your Visa: Universities help international students to apply for the UAE student visa.
- Estimate Finances: Estimate the costs for study in Dubai for Indian students, tuition fees, visa costs and living costs.
To reduce the hassle of studying in UAE, many students use trusted study in Dubai consultants that will provide professional assistance to help them with admissions, scholarships and the visa.
Dubai vs Other Gulf Countries: Which is Better?
Countries like Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia are enhancing their higher education system but Dubai has the strongest option in 2025. Here are the reasons why?
- Global exposure: Dubai has the most international branch campuses.
- Potential for employment: Dubai is part of a strong economy and has global industries, with better opportunities for a career.
- Quality of life: The cost of living is significantly higher than other Gulf countries, but it is a higher standard of living than other Gulf States.
- Recognition of the degree / qualification: The degrees from Dubai Universities and colleges will be recognised more globally compared to other Gulf countries.
For students who have budget constraints, options for studying in Oman or Qatar may be more inexpensive. However Dubai is still the best option when looking for global exposure, employability and long-term career possibilities.
FAQs
Ques. 1. How much money is required to study in Dubai in Indian rupees?
Ans. On average, Indian students require ₹20–25 lakhs annually to cover tuition and living expenses in Dubai.
Ques. 2. What is the study in Dubai cost for Indian students?
Ans. Undergraduate tuition fees range from ₹9–18 lakhs per year, with an additional ₹8–10 lakhs for living expenses.
Ques. 3. Can I study in Dubai after 12th?
Ans. Yes, students can directly enter undergraduate programs in Dubai after completing Class 12. Popular choices include Business, IT, and Engineering.
Ques. 4. How much gap is accepted for study in Dubai after 12th?
Ans. Most universities in Dubai accept a 2–3 year gap for undergraduate courses if valid reasons are provided.
Ques. 5. Why to study in Dubai instead of other Gulf countries?
Ans. Dubai offers international university campuses, multicultural exposure, globally recognized degrees, and better career opportunities compared to other Gulf nations.