Cost of Studying in UAE: Tuition Fees and Living Expenses

The cost of studying in UAE can vary from one student to another, as it depends on several factors rather than a single fixed figure.

Your total study cost can vary based on:

• The city you choose.

• The type of university you attend.

• Your level of study.

• The course you enrol in.

For example, living costs in major cities are typically higher than in smaller Emirates, while postgraduate or specialist courses often have higher tuition fees.

Now that you understand what affects study costs, let’s take a closer look at the average tuition fees charged by UAE universities.

Courses that involve labs, clinical training, or specialised equipment often cost more due to higher teaching and facility expenses, while coursework-based programs are generally more expensive than research-based degrees, which may have lower tuition fees but longer study durations.

Key cost notes

Tuition fees are commonly charged per year or per credit. Some universities allow instalment payments options, which can help students manage cash flow during the academic year.

If you’re thinking about how to manage your study costs in UAE, scholarships can make a real difference when you plan early. Many universities offer merit-based scholarships and tuition discounts for international students with strong academic results.

• United Arab Emirates University Scholarships: These offer partial to full tuition discounts based on academic performance.

• Khalifa University Scholarships: This university provides strong support for engineering, science and technology programs. Awards may include tuition coverage and stipends.

• Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence Scholarships: This program offers fully funded support for eligible postgraduate students in AI-focused fields.

Living costs in UAE vary by city, mainly due to differences in rent, transport, and lifestyle.

These are the monthly costs of living per city for one person, excluding rent:

• Dubai has the highest cost of living in UAE, with higher rent and daily expenses. However, it also offers the widest choice of universities, international branch campuses, and strong access to internships and part-time work opportunities.

• Abu Dhabi is slightly more affordable than Dubai in some areas and is known for its strong academic reputation, particularly in research, engineering, and government-linked programs.

• Sharjah appeals to budget-conscious students, offering more affordable housing and lower overall living costs, while still being close to Dubai for study or work opportunities.

• Ajman has the lowest cost of living among these cities, with lower rent and daily expenses, making it a practical option for students who prioritise affordability over location or campus size.

Speak to an IDP counsellor to understand the exact cost of studying in UAE based on your course, city, and budget.

On average, students should budget around AED 3,500 to AED 6,500 per month, excluding tuition fees.

This usually covers rent, food, transport, utilities, internet, health insurance, and personal expenses. While living costs are higher in major cities, many students manage expenses well through shared housing, public transport and careful budgeting.

Important planning tip

Be sure to check what’s included in your accommodation (such as utilities, internet, furniture) and whether prices are monthly or annual. IDP counsellors can help you sense-check accommodation costs by city and course before committing.

With personalised cost advice and expert guidance, you can plan your UAE study journey with greater clarity and confidence from the start.

Our IDP counsellors can help you:

• Understand your total study cost.

• Compare tuition fees across universities.

• Get practical advice on accommodation options and living costs.

• Choose the right course and location based on your goals.

• Map out your long-term study and future plans.