Study in Dubai: Your Comprehensive Guide to Courses, Costs and Requirements

Every year, students from all over the world choose to study in Dubai. Markedly, its high educational level is outstanding, so many of its schools and universities are internationally recognized. 

The city’s great quality of life is another good reason many students live in Dubai. High safety ratings and unstoppable economic growth are characteristics of this Middle Eastern destination. This also translates into high-paying job opportunities.

All in all, Dubai is among the best student destinations in the world. So, if your New Year’s resolution is to move to this city, and study in Dubai, read this article! We will explain the courses you can take, the most common student jobs, and the requirements to travel. Scroll down.

*Disclaimer: the following figures are for reference only and are subject to change.

Top reasons to work and study in Dubai

Before we discuss courses, visas, and the cost of living, let’s first explore why Dubai is such a top destination. Many students love it for various reasons. Once you know them, you’ll surely want to pack your suitcase and take the next flight to the extravagant United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Excellent quality of life

Undoubtedly, Dubai is one of the best cities in the world to live in! This is a modern and technological city with impressive high economic and social development rates. It also has very low crime rates due to strict laws. You will feel very comfortable studying here.

Broad academic offerings

Over the years, the city has become incredibly popular. It’s now home to international schools and universities. These institutions offer language and professional courses that are in high demand globally. Additionally, Dubai’s institutions rank among the best in the world.

Opportunities to study and work at the same time

Yes, you can work and study in Dubai! Moreover, unlike elsewhere, students here can combine their studies with employment without any hourly restrictions. However, you mustn’t neglect your studies. Your academic performance must not be affected in any way.

Cosmopolitan lifestyle

There are few cities as cosmopolitan as Dubai. This Middle Eastern destination is home to people from more than 200 countries of the world. It is a true cultural melting pot. If you decide to live here, you will soak up new and fascinating cultures. You will also learn new traditions and make many friends.

Wide range of leisure activities

Since the city has a wide range of leisure activities, studying and working in Dubai is great fun! In your free time, visit the theme parks, and tour the aquariums full of spectacular marine life. Besides, you can take a dip at the beach, hike in the desert, or explore the luxurious skyscrapers of the city as well.

Courses to work and study in Dubai

When it comes to courses, Dubai has become one of the most popular destinations to study English. Although not official, it is the most spoken language in the city after Arabic. So, you are exposed to the language almost 24/7! As the days go by, your vocabulary, pronunciation, and writing improve a lot.

If you are proficient in English, you can take a vocational course or a university-level course. There are many Arab and international schools and universities that offer a variety of certifications. They cover areas such as marketing, business, and construction. Technology, hospitality, and tourism, as well… You have several options to choose from.

At GrowPro, we offer you English courses in Dubai! When you book one of our experiences, we will help you with your travel arrangements to the Middle East. We make sure you have an unforgettable adventure.

Cost of studying and living in Dubai

Before delving into numbers, it’s important to note that the official currency in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the dirham (AED).

However, to provide you with a clearer understanding of the costs associated with studying in Dubai, we’ll present some reference figures in US dollars (USD).

Let’s start with all the initial expenses to travel to Dubai for studies:

• Airfare: between 400 and 700 USD* if you travel from Europe.
• Tuition: 900 USD* per month for an English course. Up to 20,000 USD* (per year in some cases) if you take professional-level programs.
• Student health insurance: 82 USD* per month. You may pay more or less depending on the policy you take out.

Now, the cost of living in Dubai ranges from 700* to 1,000 USD* per month! Check out:

• Food: 150* to 250 USD* per month according to your eating habits.
• Accommodation: 410* to 900 USD* per month if private or shared.
• Leisure: up to 100 USD* per month, although this depends on how often you go out.
• Utilities (water, electricity, gas, internet…): between 176* and 227 USD* per month.
• Transportation: 80 USD* to purchase a monthly pass.

Job opportunities for students in Dubai

Are you planning to work and study in Dubai? In that case, you should know several important things. First, you can work full-time, you know that! It’s key to prioritize your studies above all else. If you neglect them, you could get into trouble later on.

Second, there is no minimum wage in Dubai. Thus, employers decide how much they want to pay their employees. However, there is an average salary of around AED 4,810* per month for unskilled jobs. It is equivalent to approximately USD 1,310* per month.

Third, these are some common student jobs in Dubai:

• Waiter or waitress: earns between 1,500* and 2,500 AED* per month plus tips.
• Sales clerk: earns between 1,500* and 2,500 AED* per month.
• Call center staff: earn between 2,000* and 3,500 AED* per month.
• Cleaning staff: earn between 2,000* and 4,000 AED* per month.
• Freelance translator in Dubai: earn up to 4,000 AED* per month.

Of course, some jobs pay more money, so evaluate all options.

Requirements to work and study in Dubai

If you want to study in Dubai, you need a study visa, I’m sure you already know this.

Note that there are 2 types of visas with which you can immigrate to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a student. Each one has a specific duration and certain characteristics, let’s see:

1. Student visa valid for 3 months

• Estimated processing time: 4 weeks

The Dubai 3-month-validity student visa is issued by the school. Its validity can be extended to 6 months.

Also, it is a single-entry visa. This means that you cannot leave the country during that time. Otherwise, you will have to apply for a new visa when you return to the United Arab Emirates (USA).

Pst, with this visa, you can work full time during your trip to Dubai!

2. Student visa valid for 1 year

• Estimated processing time: 6 weeks

The Dubai student visa valid for 1 year is also managed by the school. As in the previous case, allows you to work full-time. The difference is that this study visa includes a card that identifies you as a permanent resident.

Besides, you must undergo some medical tests to apply for it.

If your course lasts more than 1 year, you can renew your visa until you finish it.

Do you need personalized advice? Click here and fill out the form. One of our Student Advisors will contact you.

Documents to apply for a student visa in Dubai

To apply for a visa to study in Dubai, you only need a few documents. You will need a passport-sized photo, a very clear copy of your valid passport, and a letter of acceptance issued by your school.

If additional requirements are needed, the admission authorities will inform you.

Travelers who can travel to Dubai only with their passport

Keep in mind that citizens of some countries can enter the United Arab Emirates (UAE) only with their passports. Upon arrival, they have to apply for a free stay permit valid for 3 months to do their course. Now, the downside is that they cannot work or extend their stay to stay longer.

Passport holders from European Union countries (excluding Ireland) are among the nationalities permitted to travel to Dubai.

Tips for adjusting to the lifestyle in Dubai

While studying and working in Dubai is very exciting, there is no denying that it is a big cultural change! In the Middle East, customs and traditions are very different. Navigating this can pose a challenge and may feel overwhelming at times. However, with an open mind, it’s entirely manageable.

To adapt smoothly, we recommend you do some research on the culture of Dubai. Read a little about the religion and customs that may seem awkward for you. For example, eating and drinking in front during Ramadan is disrespectful for religious reasons.

Another tip: be very respectful at all times. Dubai is a cosmopolitan city. However, there are conservative people. Ideally, it’s best to refrain from dressing extravagantly, displaying affection in public, creating noise in the streets, or pointing fingers at anyone.

It doesn’t sound easy, we know, so you have to be very patient. At first, it takes some time to adapt to a new culture. Undoubtedly in Dubai or any other city in the world, but that’s part of traveling. This experience will make you a more understanding person with a broader perspective on life.

In short, if you are tolerant and come with an open mind, you will enjoy your trip.

Do you want to work and study in Dubai? GrowPro can help you

You will love our news: you can now study in Dubai with GrowPro! We are ready to offer you top educational experiences.

Choose your favorite experience here and fill out the contact form! In less than 48 business hours, one of our Student Advisors will contact you to start planning your adventure in Dubai.

Pack your bags, future grower, Dubai awaits you with GrowPro!