The UAE is a dynamic destination for students looking for higher education options. Its higher education system combines global academic standards with local traditions, offering a range of universities, research centres, and specialised institutions. From modern campuses to innovative programs, the UAE provides diverse opportunities for students from all backgrounds.
At Remitly, we know that navigating a new education system can feel overwhelming, especially in a new country. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you understand how higher education works in the UAE. From admission requirements to degree options, we’ll walk you through the key details to support your academic journey.
Overview of education in the UAE
From early schooling to postgraduate studies, the UAE offers both public and private institutions catering to different needs. Public schools, managed by the Ministry of Education, follow a national curriculum with a strong focus on the Arabic language and local culture. Some subjects may be taught in English.
Meanwhile, many families choose private schools that offer international programs like British A-Levels, the American High School Diploma, or the International Baccalaureate.
Higher education in the UAE mixes academic tradition with cutting-edge innovation. Universities across the seven Emirates offer a wide range of programmes, from business and engineering to specialised technical fields that complement the country’s fast-evolving economy.
What makes higher education in the UAE unique?
- A global approach to learning: Many universities combine local heritage with international perspectives, giving students the best of both worlds.
- A multilingual environment: While Arabic is the official language, English is widely used in universities and private institutions, making education accessible to students from different backgrounds.
- Academic free zones: Some universities operate in designated free zones—like Dubai International Academic City—offering greater flexibility in admissions and governance while still complying with local regulations.
- High education standards: Regulatory bodies like the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA), KHDA (Dubai), and ADEK (Abu Dhabi) ensure universities meet quality benchmarks.
Studying in a multicultural environment
The UAE’s universities are a reflection of its diverse population, bringing together students from all over the world. Studying there gives you an opportunity to build global connections, develop cross-cultural skills, and gain a truly international perspective. Whether in the classroom or through student life, you’ll find a welcoming environment that encourages collaboration, adaptability, and new ways of thinking.
The UAE’s higher education system
If you’re new to the UAE, you’ll find a well-structured education system that offers plenty of options at every stage, from early learning to postgraduate studies. The country’s higher education landscape is designed to accommodate a diverse student population.
Public vs. private universities
Public universities in the UAE are mainly government-funded and used by Emirati students, though some welcome international applicants. For example, United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) in Al Ain is known for its strong academic reputation and wide range of degree programmes.
Public institutions tend to follow national education guidelines, with a stronger emphasis on Arabic language and regional studies, although some programmes are taught in English.
Private universities, on the other hand, attract students from all over the world and offer internationally recognised degrees. Institutions like American University of Sharjah (AUS) and American University in Dubai (AUD) follow global academic standards, with English as the primary language of instruction.
Private universities often provide more flexibility in admissions, programme choices, and learning environments, which is why they’re a popular option among expats and international students.
Role of the Ministry of Education
The UAE Ministry of Education ensures that all universities, both public and private, maintain high academic standards across the Emirates. It oversees accreditation, sets learning benchmarks, and sets out policies that support national and international curricula. This means that no matter where you choose to study in the UAE, you can expect a well-regulated and high-quality education.
The CAA, which operates under the Ministry of Education, is specifically responsible for the accreditation of private universities in the nation.
International education options
If you’re looking for internationally recognised degrees, the UAE has a variety of institutions that offer British, American, and Australian-style programmes. Many universities provide foundation courses to help students transition into higher education, along with English-language support and career counselling services.
The UAE is also home to foreign university branch campuses, particularly in free zones. These allow students to earn degrees from renowned international universities without leaving the country, which may make it easier to transfer credits or continue studies abroad. They include:
- New York University Abu Dhabi
- Murdoch University Dubai
- London Business School Dubai
- University of Stirling Ras Al Khaimah
How higher education works in the UAE
If you’re new to the UAE and considering higher education, you’ll find a system that’s structured yet flexible, offering pathways for different career goals. Whether you’re aiming for an academic degree, hands-on technical training, or an internationally recognised qualification, there’s an option to suit your goals.
University structure and study options
Universities in the UAE follow a system similar to those in the UK, US, and Australia, offering bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees. Most courses use a credit system, where students complete a set number of credits to graduate.
You can also study technical and vocational programmes that provide specialised training in fields like engineering, IT, and business. The Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), for example, focus on career-driven education to help students gain industry-ready skills.
If you’re looking for a degree from an international university without leaving the UAE, you could go to a foreign branch campus. These institutions offer qualifications in areas like healthcare, design, and business, following global curricula that make it easier to transfer credits or continue studies abroad. Check to find out if the university you’re interested in issues UAE-accredited degrees or degrees from their own institution.
What you need for university admission
Each university has its own entry requirements, but most expect:
- Completion of secondary school with qualifying grades
- Standardised test scores, such as EmSAT (this is mandatory for public universities), SAT, or other recognised exams
- English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL are required if the programme is taught in English and if English isn’t your first language.
- Subject-specific requirements (e.g., A-Levels for British-based institutions)
Some universities also consider personal statements, recommendation letters, or interviews as part of the application. If you’re an Emirati student, you may be eligible for government scholarships or tuition support. Private universities may also offer scholarships to both Emirati and international students.
Before applying, international students should check for additional requirements, like proof of financial means or a student visa.
Accreditation and quality assurance
When you’re choosing a university in the UAE, consider checking its accreditation status. This is to make sure that your degree is recognised for future career or study opportunities. For instance, if you plan to continue studying abroad or find work internationally, choosing a recognised degree programme will make all the difference.
The UAE Ministry of Education oversees accreditation for public universities, while the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) monitors private institutions. In Dubai, the KHDA (Knowledge and Human Development Authority) evaluates programme quality and campus standards.
Higher education in the UAE
The UAE is home to top-ranked universities, cutting-edge programmes, and plenty of opportunities for high-quality learning.
Popular universities in the UAE
- Abu Dhabi: The capital is home to United Arab Emirates University in Al Ain, a leading research university, as well as Khalifa University, known for engineering and science, and Zayed University, which focuses on business, media, and the arts.
- Dubai: Dubai has a mix of international and local institutions, including American University in Dubai, Dubai Medical College for Girls, and a variety of private universities in Dubai International Academic City, offering programmes in business, communications, and healthcare.
- Sharjah: With a strong cultural and academic heritage, American University of Sharjah is highly regarded for its liberal arts, engineering, and architecture programmes.
- Ajman: While smaller than Dubai or Abu Dhabi, Ajman is making a name for itself in specialised fields such as dentistry, pharmacy, and health sciences.
Innovative study programmes
The UAE is constantly evolving its higher education options to meet global industry demands. If you’re interested in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, sustainability, or space exploration, you’ll find programmes designed to prepare students for the jobs of the future.
Many universities also offer flexible learning options, including online courses, hybrid programmes, and dual-degree partnerships with international institutions. This means you can customise your education to fit your career ambitions while benefiting from world-class teaching and top industry connections.
Opportunities for international students
Studying in the UAE is a great opportunity to be part of a truly global community. With students from all over the world, universities there offer English-taught courses, multicultural campuses, and support services to help newcomers settle in. Most institutions provide dedicated student services to help with things like finding accommodation, adjusting to academic life, or improving your English or Arabic skills.
Challenges and reforms in the UAE education system
Even with impressive advancements, the UAE’s higher education arena faces ongoing pressures to adapt to global trends. The government is committed to improving learning experiences, expanding research opportunities, and ensuring graduates are ready for the modern job market.
Key challenges in higher education
- Maintaining high standards: With public universities, private institutions, and international campuses all operating in the UAE, ensuring consistent quality across the board is an ongoing effort.
- Combining tradition with innovation: The country values its cultural heritage but is also embracing digital learning, AI-driven education, and modern teaching techniques.
- Expanding research and development: While UAE universities offer strong teaching programmes, there is a growing push to improve research capabilities and position the country as a leader in science, technology, and business.
Government initiatives and reforms
To address these challenges, the UAE has introduced strategies to make education a national priority. The Education 2020 Strategy has been developed across a five-year plan that focuses on teacher training and improving the way students learn.
Part of this plan is to invest in digital literacy, AI, and hands-on learning to prepare students for the demands of an innovation-driven world. Many universities now include coding, data science, and interactive problem-solving as part of their curriculum, helping students gain practical skills alongside academic knowledge.
Meanwhile, the National Strategy for Higher Education 2030 focuses on boosting research and innovation, increasing employability for graduates, and enhancing the global competitiveness of UAE universities.
As these reforms continue, studying in the UAE offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking, globally connected education system.
FAQs
How does higher education work in the UAE?
The UAE offers a mix of public and private universities, as well as international branch campuses. Public institutions, such as United Arab Emirates University, cater mainly to Emirati students, while private universities like American University in Dubai and American University of Sharjah attract a diverse student body. Many programmes follow international standards and are taught in English.
What are the main types of universities in the UAE?
The UAE has three main types of higher education institutions. Public universities are government-funded and primarily for Emirati students. Private universities offer internationally accredited degrees with English-taught courses. International branch campuses include universities from the UK, the US, and other countries with campuses in the UAE.
How many higher education institutions are there in the UAE?
Although numbers fluctuate, there are well over 100 institutions offering post-secondary programmes across the Emirates, including public, private, and international branch campuses. Dubai and Abu Dhabi host many, though other emirates like Sharjah are also expanding their offerings.
What are academic free zones?
The UAE has academic free zones like Dubai International Academic City and Ras Al Khaimah Academic Zone, where international universities operate with more flexible regulations. These universities often follow their home country’s academic system, which may make it easier to transfer credits or continue studies abroad.