UAE’s profound academic system encourages Emiratis to pursue higher education. All students get equal higher education opportunities in the UAE. Whether native or international, universities help the individuals excel in their domain.
Over the years, numerous prestigious global institutions have also established campuses in each emirate to enhance the UAE’s educational system. Let’s scroll down to read more about higher education in the UAE! Let’s scroll down to read more about higher education in UAE!
UAE Higher Education Structure
UAE’s higher education structure is divided into multiple institutional levels where students can complete their professional and academic degrees. These institutions include both public and private:
1. Colleges
The UAE boasts numerous colleges and institutes specialising in:
- Business
- Engineering
- Medical
- Technology
- Arts and design
These colleges offer diploma and certificate programs. Along with certifications, these institutes also provide pathways to students for tertiary education. Also, you can find the best higher colleges of technology in the UAE.
2. Universities
The UAE has government and private universities offering diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Public universities in the UAE provide a variety of programs. In contrast, private universities offer international education.
3. Institutes for Technical and Professional Education
In the UAE, numerous institutes provide practical skills and training for specific industries. Additionally, these institutions offer vocational and technical education in:
- Hospitality
- Aviation
- Healthcare
- Technology
Higher Education in UAE
The UAE offers the best scholarships to top-ranked universities and colleges in each emirate to make higher education affordable for everyone. Let’s go through the most prominent universities in UAE:
Higher Education Institutes – Dubai
1. Dubai College
Dubai College is a global British education leader, fostering lifelong learning and global leadership. The college focuses on:
- Sports
- Creativity
- Philanthropy
- Academics
Also, students in Dubai College are obliged to participate in TopUP lessons once promoted to years 12 and 13. These specialised lessons are to minimise knowledge gaps between A-level and university.
- Address: Al Sufouh, Al Sufouh 2, Dubai, UAE
Subjects
- Art and Design
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Design and Technology
- Drama & Theatre Studies
- Economics, English Literature
- the Extended Project
- French/Spanish/Latin
- Psychology
Fees:
- Grade 12 and 13: AED 105,555/annum
2. Higher Colleges of Technology
UAE’s Higher Colleges of Technology is the largest applied higher educational institution and the first approved university economic free zone. HCT has awarded over 85,000 academic degrees to successful male and female graduates.
- Address: Al Nahda 2, Next Ministry of Labour, Dubai, UAE
Fields:
- Applied Media
- Computer Information Science
- Education
- Engineering Technology & Science
- Health Sciences
- Business
Fees:
- AED 2,100 – AED 2,500/ credit hour
Discount:
- 20% discount for HCT Alumni.
3. Zayed University
Zayed University is one of the top UAE federal institutions with two modern campuses. The university offers an extensive range of fields and highly qualified course instructors to national and international students.
- Address: Academic City, Dubai, UAE
Departments:
- Arts and Creative Enterprises
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Natural and Health Sciences
- Business
- Technological Innovation
- Interdisciplinary Studies
Fees:
- AED 2,500/credit hour for undergraduates.
- AED 2,667 to AED 3,200/credit hour for postgraduates.
Financial aid:
- Available.
Higher Education Institutes – Abu Dhabi
1. UAE University
Students prefer United Arab Emirates University due to its number 1 UAE ranking and 6th in the Arab ranking. UAEU’s global-level education makes it the top choice for every student.
- Address: Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Fields:
- The Arts
- Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery
- Business and Administration
- Teacher Training and Education Science
- Health Sciences
- Humanities
- Mathematics, Computing, and Engineering
- Physical science
- Social and Behavioural Science
- Journalism and Information
- Law
- Life Science
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Computing
- Engineering and Engineering Trades
- Architecture and Building
- Veterinary
- Social Services
- Environmental Protection
Fees:
- AED 1900 to AED 2500/credit hour (Bachelors)
- AED 1600 to AED 3660/credit hour (Masters)
- AED 2400 to AED 2800/credit hour (PhD)
Scholarship:
- Available
2. Khalifa University
One of the UAE’s top-ranked universities, Khalifa University, is a public institution educating thousands of students. With 12 research centres, KU is the preferred institution for researchers.
- Address: Shakhbout Bin Sultan Street, Hadbat Al Za’faranah, Zone 1, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Departments:
- Engineering and Physical Sciences
- Computing and Mathematical Sciences
- Medicine And Health Sciences
Fees:
- AED 2,500/ credit hour (Undergrad)
- AED 5,000/ credit hour (Postgrad)
- AED 6,666/ credit hour (Doctorate)
Scholarship:
- Available.
3. Fatima Health Sciences College
Fatima College of Health Sciences is among the top health education institutes in the UAE. Initially, it was offering a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, but now FCHS has introduced more programmes, including:
- Pharmacy
- Physiotherapy
- Radiography
- Medical Imaging
- Emergency Health (Paramedics)
- Psychology
- Midwifery
- Address: Al Mafraq, Near Al Mafraq Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Fees:
- AED 2,500/ credit hour (Undergrad)
Discount:
- 50% for staff’s children.
Higher Education Institutes – Sharjah
1. Sharjah University
The University of Sharjah is a leading academic institution in the GCC region. The UoS offers programs accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education, including:
- Engineering
- Communication
- Science
- Business
- Address: University City Road, University City, Sharjah, UAE
Departments:
- Sharia and Islamic Studies
- Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
- Business Administration
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Law
- Fine Arts & Design
- Communication
- Medicine
- Dental Medicine
- Pharmacy
- Sciences
- Graduate Studies
- Computing and Informatics
- Public Policy
Fees:
- AED 2,800 (Higher Diplomas)
- AED 22,522 to AED 33,260/semester (Undergraduate)
- AED 2,541 to AED 4000 (Masters)
- AED 4,568 to AED 6,090 (PhD)
Scholarships:
- Available.
2. Sharjah Maritime Academy
One of the top UAE institutions, Sharjah Maritime Academy, offers recognised baccalaureate-level maritime training and research degree programs.
- Address: Khor Fakkan, Sharjah, UAE
Bachelor Programmes:
- Marine Engineering Technology
- Maritime Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Maritime Transport
Fees:
- AED 20,350 to AED 25,650/ Semester
Scholarship:
- For students with 70% or above marks.
3. Skyline University College
Skyline University College, a top UAE institution, offers students academic and professional opportunities. SUC fosters personal growth and social responsibility while emphasising risk management and stakeholder health and safety.
- Address: University City, Sharjah, UAE
Fields:
- International Business
- Human Resource Management
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Marketing and Retail Management
- Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Public Administration
- Accounting
- Enterprise Computing
- Software Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence
Fees:
- AED 50,505 to AED 51,765/ Year (Undergraduate)
- AED 29,641.50 to AED 30,145.50/ Semester (Postgraduate)
Scholarship:
- Available.
Higher Educational Institutes – Fujairah
1. University of Fujairah
The University of Fujairah is a top institution known for its exceptional research and high-quality graduate programs. At UoF, you can choose from:
- 5 Bachelors Programmes
- 3 Diploma Programmes
- Address: E89, Mraisheed, Fujairah, UAE
Departments:
- Business Administration
- Information Technology
- Communication
- Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities
- General Education
Fees:
- AED 1,000/ regular semester
- AED 500/ short semester
Scholarship:
- Upto 70%
2. University of Science and Technology
Another top-notch university in Fujairah is The University of Science and Technology. USTF provides exceptional teaching, research, and services to enhance students’ lives and enrich their university experience.
- Address: University of Science and Technology of Fujairah, Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Rd, Al Hlaifat, Fujairah, UAE
Programmes:
- Bachelors
- Masters
- Diploma
Departments:
- Dentistry
- Law
- Engineering and Technology
- Business Administration
- Humanities and Science
Fees:
- AED 1,025 to AED 2,100/ credit hour (Undergraduate)
- AED 2,000/ credit hour (Postgraduate)
Scholarship:
- Up to 100%
3. HCT Men’s Campus -Fujairah
HCT-Fujairah Men’s campus offers tertiary education programs for young Emirati men in Business, Information Technology, and Engineering. Under the guidance of globally qualified faculty, students learn skills for UAE workforce development, including:
- Language
- Technical
- Teamwork
- Leadership
- Address: Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road, Near City Center Fujairah, Fujairah, UAE
Fields:
- Applied Media
- Business
- Computer Information Science
- Engineering Technology & Science
- Education
- Health Sciences
Fees:
- AED 2,100 to AED 2,500/ credit hour
Discount:
- 20% off for HCT Alumni.
Higher Education Institutes – RAK
1. RAK University of Medical and Health Sciences
For students who want to pursue medicine, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University is the best option. The work-based learning programs at RAKMHSU aim to produce skilled and knowledgeable medical professionals in:
- Patient Care
- Public Health
- Clinical Research
- Medical Education
- Address: RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Al Juwais, Al Qusaidat, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Programmes:
- Doctor of Medicine
- BS in Dental Surgery
- BS in Pharmacy
- BS in Nursing
- Diploma in Nursing
- MS in Pharmacy
Fees:
- AED 20,500 to 65,000/ Semester
Scholarship:
- Not available
2. American University
The American University of Ras Al Khaimah is a non-profit, coeducational institution that offers integrated American-style undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Address: 75, Sheikh Humaid Bin Mohamed Street, Seih Al Araibi, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Departments:
- Business Management
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Education
- Biotechnology
- Media and Design
Fees:
- AED 2,310 to AED 2,625/ credit hour (undergrad)
- AED 2,100 to AED 3,150/ credit hour (postgrad)
Scholarship
- Upto 70%
3. The University of Stirling (RAK)
The University of Stirling is a globally recognised institution known for its exceptional teaching and research.
- Address: RAKEZ Academic Zone, Al Dhait South, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Programmes:
- Undergraduate:
- Accounting & Finance
- Management
- Software Engineering
- Computing Science
- Postgraduate:
- Finance
- Big Data
Fees:
- AED 40,000/ year (Undergrad)
- AED 50,000/ year (Postgrad)
Scholarship:
- AED 10,000 (maximum) on merit.
Higher Education Institutes – Ajman
1. Ajman University
Among the top 5 universities in the UAE, Ajman University was established as the first private university in the GCC. AU pioneered:
- Inclusion
- Innovation
- Social impact
- Address: University Street, Al Jerf 1, Ajman, UAE
Departments:
- Dentistry
- Pharmacy and Health Sciences
- Engineering and Information Technology
- Architecture, Art and Design
- Business Administration
- Law
- Mass Communication
- Humanities and Sciences
- Medicine
Fees:
- AED 1265 to AED 2500/ credit hour (Undergrad)
- AED 2000 to AED 4500/ credit hour (Postgrad)
Discount:
- 25% off on tuition fee
2. City University Ajman
City University Ajman, a top-ranked university in UAE, follows an American Education System model for advanced teaching and learning. They offer market-driven academic programs and rigorous coursework for top-notch educational studies.
- Address: Sheikh Ammar Road, Al Tallah 2, Ajman, UAE
Departments:
- Dental Surgery
- Business Administration
- Law
- Public Relations and Advertisement
Fees:
- AED 999 to AED 2200/ credit hour (Undergrad)
- AED 1815 to AED 25,410/ credit hour (Postgrad)
Scholarship:
- Upto 50% merit scholarship
3. Western University College
Western University College is a UK university recruitment partner offering internationally recognised programs to students worldwide. They collaborate with UK universities, focusing on assessment and assignment-based learning at students’ pace.
- Address: Amberjem Tower, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Street, Al Rashidiya 3, Ajman, UAE
Programmes:
- Diploma
- Undergraduate:
- Business Management
- Business Management & Strategy
- Software Engineering
- Computing
- Cyber Security
- Postgraduate:
- Data Analytics and Technologies
- Cloud and Network Security
- Business Administration
- Accounting & Finance
- Human Resource Management
- Cyber Security
Fees:
- For fee structure, contact:
- +971 56 533 0333
- iinfo@westernuniversitycollege.com
Scholarship:
- Available
Higher Education Institutes – Umm al Quwain
1. British Applied College in Umm Al Quwain
British Applied College in Umm Al Quwain is a prominent applied institution at the tertiary level. The BACU’s world-class education system makes it the top choice for students in the area.
- Address: 9 Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Al Bootain, Al Hamrah 2, Umm Al Quwain, UAE
Fields:
- Cybersecurity
- Software Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence (& Data Analytics)
- General Computing
- Accounting & Finance
- Business Management
- Human Resource Management and Marketing
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical & Electronic Engineering (Robotics)
- Civil Engineering
- Interior Architecture & Design
- Construction Management
Fees:
- AED 26,000 to AED 37,000/ year
Scholarship:
- Available
2. University of UAQ
Umm Al Quwain University is an accredited institution that offers top-notch education and promotes scientific research. UAQU integrates its findings into societal and labour market needs.
- Address: Unnamed Road, Umm Al Quwain, UAE
Departments:
- Business Administration
- Law
- Mass Communication
- Arts and Science
Fees:
- AED 35,067 to AED 47,817/ year
Scholarship:
- Upto 70%
FAQs
Yes, the UAE has an excellent higher education system. The UAE has a high tertiary school enrollment rate, with 95% girls and 80% boys applying to higher education institutions.
UAE ranks 164th in literacy, with 98%.
UAE’s top research universities are:
– American University (Sharjah)
– New York University (Abu Dhabi)
– United Arab Emirates University
– Khalifa University
Higher education in the UAE has escalated due to several new national and international universities and colleges. These top public and private institutes ensure you a successful career in the future. Following our guide, you can choose the top UAE universities near you.
For more UAE’s educational blogs, like the best universities in Sharjah or Dubai, check out Property Finder Blogs.
