

American University of Sharjah (AUS) vs Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Choosing between American University of Sharjah (AUS) and Heriot-Watt University Dubai is a common decision for students in the UAE. American University of Sharjah (AUS) is based in Sharjah while Heriot-Watt University Dubai is located in Dubai, offering distinct local industry connections.

American University of Sharjah (AUS)
Local Government

Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Branch of International Institution
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Comparison Point | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Sharjah | Dubai |
| Institution Type | Local Government | Branch of International Institution |
| Est. Tuition (AED) | Contact for fees | 74,000 AED |
| Degrees Offered | BachelorsMastersPhD | |
| Accreditation | MOHESR / International | MOHESR / International |
Location
American University of Sharjah (AUS)
Sharjah
Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Dubai
Type
American University of Sharjah (AUS)
Local Government
Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Branch of International Institution
Tuition (AED)
American University of Sharjah (AUS)
Contact for fees
Heriot-Watt University Dubai
74,000 AED
Accreditation
American University of Sharjah (AUS)
Standard
Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Standard
Degrees Offered
American University of Sharjah (AUS)
Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Which university is better for you?
For Budget Students
Comparing costs requires contacting both universities for recent fee structures, as tuition varies significantly by program and scholarship availability.
For Higher Studies
Heriot-Watt University Dubai has a more comprehensive postgraduate department, offering Masters and PhD programs that the other may lack.
For International Prospects
Institutions located in Dubai offer a more global campus environment with better options for part-time work and international networking.
Why Choose American University of Sharjah (AUS)?
- •Strong presence in Sharjah with dedicated campus facilities.
- •Recognized for its local government standing and academic tradition.
- •Strategic location offering local connections and industry networking.
Why Choose Heriot-Watt University Dubai?
- •Reputable branch of international institution known for its academic excellence.
- •Established campus in Dubai with modern learning environments.
- •Strong focus on postgraduate and specialized professional development.
- •Provides a multicultural environment conducive to global networking.
Tuition & Location Comparison
Financial Consideration
Cost is often a deciding factor. American University of Sharjah (AUS) has an estimated annual tuition of Contact for fees, while Heriot-Watt University Dubai is approximately 74,000 AED. Students should also factor in application fees and available scholarships which can significantly influence the total investment.
Geographic Advantage
American University of Sharjah (AUS) is in Sharjah and Heriot-Watt University Dubai is in Dubai. Living costs, part-time work options and the industries you can intern in differ between the two emirates, so weigh location alongside fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which university is more affordable, American University of Sharjah (AUS) or Heriot-Watt University Dubai?
Based on current estimates, Contact for fees per year for American University of Sharjah (AUS) compared to 74,000 AED for Heriot-Watt University Dubai. Tuition can vary by program, so checking individual fee structures is recommended.
Which is better for Indian students?
Both universities are popular with international and Indian students. American University of Sharjah (AUS) and Heriot-Watt University Dubai offer recognized degrees and a multicultural campus life that is well-suited for students from the subcontinent.
Do both universities offer masters programs?
Heriot-Watt University Dubai lists master's programs; American University of Sharjah (AUS) does not currently show any in our data. Confirm with the university, as program lists change each year.
Which campus has better industry connections?
Both institutions maintain strong ties with local industries. American University of Sharjah (AUS)'s connections are deeply rooted in its location in Sharjah, whereas Heriot-Watt University Dubai leverages its Branch of International Institution status to build global partnerships.
Are the degrees from both universities accredited in the UAE?
Yes, both American University of Sharjah (AUS) and Heriot-Watt University Dubai are recognized institutions. Students should verify specific program-level accreditation with the UAE Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA).
In summary:
Choosing between American University of Sharjah (AUS) and Heriot-Watt University Dubai involves balancing tuition costs, location preferences, and program availability. American University of Sharjah (AUS) is a local government in Sharjah; Heriot-Watt University Dubai is a branch of international institution in Dubai. Use the fee and program tables above to decide, then apply to one or both through UAE College with a single profile.
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