What it costs to study in the UAE: tuition, living and one-off fees
Tuition fees
| Level | Typical annual fee |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | AED 40,000 to AED 90,000 |
| Postgraduate | AED 50,000 to AED 120,000 |
Branch campuses often charge 20 to 40 percent less than the home campus for the same degree.
Living costs
| Monthly cost | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | AED 2,000 to AED 4,500 (university housing and shared flats) |
| Food and groceries | AED 1,000 to AED 1,500 |
| Transport | AED 200 to AED 400 with a student Nol card |
| Utilities and phone | AED 300 to AED 500 |
| Health insurance | Included in the student visa package at most universities |
Total: AED 3,500 to AED 7,000 a month.
One-off costs
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | About AED 3,000 to AED 4,500 including medical test, Emirates ID and insurance, billed by the university |
| Health cover | Included in the visa package |
| Flights | Return flights from South Asia or West Africa typically £500 to £900 or equivalent |
| Accommodation deposit | Usually one month's rent, refundable |
| Set-up costs | Bedding, kitchen items, winter clothing: budget the equivalent of £200 to £300 |
Build your own budget
Enter your own figures. This adds them up; it does not know your course.
Where students save
- Choose a city outside the capital: the difference is often 20 to 40 percent on rent.
- Book accommodation with bills included before you arrive.
- Apply early for automatic merit scholarships; see the scholarship guide.
- Plan part-time work at 12 to 15 hours a week, not the maximum.
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
Is a degree from a Dubai branch campus the same as the UK one?
Yes for the universities we work with: the certificate is issued by the home university and does not mention the campus. Check that the programme is licensed by KHDA or CAA.
Can students work part time in the UAE?
Yes, with a part-time work permit, usually within free zones and for up to 15 to 20 hours a week. Many students take internships and campus roles.
Do I need IELTS for the UAE?
Most universities ask for IELTS 5.5 to 6.5 or an equivalent, with foundation routes for lower scores.