Study in UAE from India — Complete Guide 2026
The UAE is home to 200,000+ Indian students. This guide covers eligibility, visa requirements, costs, and the best universities for Indian applicants.
Why Choose UAE for Higher Education?
4-Hour Flight
Direct flights from all major Indian cities to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Cultural Familiarity
Large Indian community, Indian restaurants, cultural events, and familiar lifestyle.
No-IELTS Options
Many universities waive English proficiency tests for Indian-medium school graduates.
INR Scholarships
Several institutions offer INR-denominated fee structures and merit scholarships for Indian students.
Eligibility — Which Boards Are Accepted?
CBSE
Accepted by all UAE universitiesICSE / ISC
Accepted by all UAE universitiesState Boards
Accepted by most, check individual universityFor undergraduate admissions, most UAE universities require a minimum of 60–70% aggregate in Class 12. Engineering and medical programs may require higher scores in PCM/PCB respectively.
Cost Comparison: UAE vs Other Destinations
| Destination | Avg. Tuition/yr | Living Cost/mo | Flight Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇦🇪 UAE | ₹4.5–18 Lakh | ₹45,000–90,000 | 3–4 hours |
| 🇬🇧 UK | ₹15–30 Lakh | ₹80,000–1,50,000 | 9–10 hours |
| 🇺🇸 USA | ₹20–50 Lakh | ₹1,00,000–2,00,000 | 16–18 hours |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | ₹10–25 Lakh | ₹60,000–1,20,000 | 14–16 hours |
Top UAE Universities for Indian Students
| # | University | City | Tuition (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Abu Dhabi University, Dubai Campus | Dubai | INR 1435400 |
| 2 | Bath Spa University | Ras Al Khaimah | INR 554175 |
| 3 | Ajman University (AU) | Ajman | INR 1847250 |
| 4 | Al Ain University (AAU) | Abu Dhabi | INR 738900 |
| 5 | Al Wasl University | Dubai | INR 738900 |
| 6 | American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) | Ras Al Khaimah | INR 1354650 |
| 7 | Batterjee Medical College – Dubai | Dubai | INR 1559497.71 |
| 8 | Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani (BITS Pilani) Dubai Campus – BPDC | Dubai | INR 1276252.71 |
| 9 | Canadian University Dubai | Dubai | INR 1625580 |
| 10 | City, University of London | Dubai | INR 1207165.56 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UAE universities accept CBSE and ICSE boards?
Yes, virtually all UAE universities accept CBSE, ICSE, and most Indian State Board certificates for undergraduate admissions.
Do I need IELTS to study in UAE?
Not always. Several UAE universities waive IELTS if you completed secondary education in English. Check individual university requirements.
What is the average cost of studying in UAE for Indian students?
Tuition ranges from AED 20,000 to AED 80,000/year (~₹4.5 lakh to ₹18 lakh). Living costs average AED 2,000–4,000/month.
Can I work while studying in UAE?
Yes. UAE allows international students to work part-time (up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time during breaks) with a valid student visa.
How long does the UAE student visa take?
Typically 2–4 weeks after university admission confirmation. Your university sponsors the visa application.