The UAE has rapidly emerged as a global centre for education, attracting international students from around the world. Its commitment to academic excellence and its strategic location have made it a preferred destination for those seeking higher education. To help you make your decision, we have shortlisted the best universities in the UAE.
- Top Academic Institutes in Abu Dhabi
- Leading Universities in Dubai
- Top Universities in Sharjah
- Best Universities in Ajman
- Top Academic Institutes in Al-Ain
- FAQs
Top Academic Institutes in Abu Dhabi
Let’s take a look at the top universities in Abu Dhabi:
Khalifa University
Khalifa University stands out for its research-intensive programs. It specialises in STEM fields and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses. QS World University Rankings ranked it the top university in the UAE.
Key areas include engineering, medicine, and artificial intelligence. The university is considered among the top universities in Abu Dhabi. It emphasises innovation and has gained recognition as a top institution in the UAE.
Address
Shakhbout Bin Sultan Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Timings
08:00 am to 05:00 pm (Monday to Thursday)
07:30 am to 01:00 pm (Friday)
Contact Information
+971 2 312 3333
Key Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering
New York University Abu Dhabi
New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) is considered one of the best universities in the UAE. It offers a global perspective through its interdisciplinary programs. As a division of New York University, it focuses on interdisciplinary study, research, and cultural diversity. The university prepares students to tackle global challenges and promotes cross-cultural understanding.
It has been accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education’s Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) and recognised for its global research initiatives.
Address
Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Timings
09:00 am to 05:00 pm (Monday to Friday)
Contact Information
+971 2 628 4000
Key Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Arts in Social Research and Public Policy
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
Leading Universities in Dubai
Many of the best universities in the UAE are located in Dubai. Some renowned names are:
Zayed University
Zayed University is a government-sponsored institution which focuses on leadership and creativity. With campuses in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, it provides a student-centred learning environment.
This university provides undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of disciplines, including business, art, and media. Moreover, it is well-known for its cutting-edge facilities and student-centred approach to learning. Plus, it was accredited by the UAE’s CAA and is also considered one of the best universities in Dubai.
Address
Academic City, Dubai
Timings
08:00 am to 04:00 pm (Monday to Thursday)
08:00 am to 12:30 pm (Friday)
Contact Information
+971 2 599 3111 (Abu Dhabi)
+971 4 402 1111 (Dubai)
Key Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Information Systems
- Master of Science in Communication and Media Sciences
- Bachelor of Arts in International Studies
University of Dubai
The University of Dubai offers a quality education that meets international standards. It promotes creativity and entrepreneurship through its diverse programs.
Also, it has been accredited by the CAA and was awarded the Best Business School in the Middle East by Forbes Middle East in 2012.
Address
Academic City Emirates Road – Exit 49 – Dubai, UAE
Timings
08:30 am to 05:00 pm (Monday to Thursday)
08:30 am to 12:00 pm (Friday)
Contact Information
+971 4 556 6800
Key Programs
- Bachelor of Law
- Master of Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Top Universities in Sharjah
Some of the top universities in Sharjah are detailed below:
University of Sharjah
The University of Sharjah offers a broad range of programs with a strong commitment to research. It focuses on health sciences, engineering, and Islamic studies. Besides, it is also home to the Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, accredited by global agencies.
Address
University City Road, University City, Sharjah, UAE
Timings
08:00 am to 04:00 pm (Monday to Thursday)
Contact Information
+971 6 558 5000
Key Programmes
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
- Master of Science in Islamic Studies
Skyline University College
Founded in 1990, Skyline University College emphasises practical education and is considered one of the best Sharjah universities. It offers a variety of programs tailored to the evolving job market. These include undergraduate and graduate programmes in business administration, computer technology, tourism and hospitality management.
Address
University City, Sharjah, UAE
Timings
09:00 am to 10:00 pm (Monday to Friday)
Contact Information
+971 6 544 1155
Key Programs
- Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business
- Master of Business Administration in Strategic Management
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Best Universities in Ajman
Some of the best universities in UAE are located in Ajman. These are:
Ajman University
Ajman University is one of the UAE’s oldest private institutions. It has a diverse student body and a focus on promoting creativity. The university provides various undergraduate and graduate programmes geared to prepare students for the modern workforce.
Ajman University offers degrees in engineering, law and pharmacy, among others. The university is well-known for its emphasis on practical learning and community engagement.
Address
University Street, Al Jerf 1, Ajman, UAE
Timings
09:00 am to 05:00 pm (Monday to Thursday) 09:00 am to 12:00 pm (Friday)
Contact Information
+971 6 748 2222
Key Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
- Bachelor of Law
- Doctor of Dental Surgery
City University College of Ajman (CUCA)
City University College of Ajman (CUCA) is considered among the best universities in the UAE. It is famous for its high-quality education with a focus on applied learning. The college’s goal is to prepare students’ skills and knowledge to meet the changing demands of the global employment market.
CUCA offers undergraduate programmes in business administration, law and public relations. It is noted for its modern facilities and experienced faculty members who bring extensive industry knowledge to the classroom.
Address
Al Tallah 2, Ajman, UAE
Timings
09:00 am to 05:00 pm (Monday to Thursday)
09:00 am to 01:00 pm (Friday)
Contact Information
+971 6 731 5000
Key Programs
- Bachelor of Business Administration
- Bachelor of Law
- Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations
Lincoln University of Business and Management (LUBM)
It is a top college for business and management education in the UAE. LUBM provides a variety of undergraduate and graduate programmes in business administration, marketing and human resources. The institution is well-known for its flexible learning choices, including online and part-time courses for working professionals and adult learners.
Address
Al Nuaimia, Ajman, UAE
Timings
09:00 am to 06:00 pm (Monday to Thursday)
09:00 am to 01:00 pm (Friday)
Contact Information
+971 6 740 0444
Key Programs
- Bachelor of Business Administration
- Master of Business Administration
- Diploma in Human Resource Management
Top Academic Institutes in Al Ain
The top universities in Al Ain include:
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU)
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is the UAE’s oldest institution, founded in 1976. It is recognised for its strong academic courses and research endeavours.
UAEU provides a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programmes with a focus on research. The university is also considered one of the top universities in the UAE in 2024.
Address
Sheik Khalifa Bin Zayed Street, Al Ain, UAE
Timings
07:00 am to 04:00 pm (Monday to Thursday)
07:00 am to 12:00 pm (Friday)
Contact Information
+971 3 701 7111
Key Programs
- Bachelor of Law
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science
Higher Colleges of Technology – Al Ain Women’s College
It is committed to empowering women through education and encouraging practical, career-oriented learning. The Higher Colleges of Technology provide a variety of programmes designed to prepare students for jobs including business, engineering technology and health sciences.
Address
Nahyan the 1st Street, Shab Al Ashkar, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Timings
08:00 am to 04:00 pm (Monday to Thursday)
08:00 am to 12:30 pm (Friday)
Contact Information
+971 800 663428
Key Programmes
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Management
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Information Management
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Technology
FAQs
Khalifa University is the top choice, known for its research and innovative curriculum.
The American University of Sharjah (AUS) offers American-style education and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is the oldest, founded in 1976 by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founder and First President of UAE.
Absolutely! Zayed University offers programs tailored for both local and international students.
The UAE is home to high-quality universities offering international-standard education across various fields. Start your academic journey by securing admission to one of these top institutions in the UAE.
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