Study abroad without being too far from home
With regular flights connecting major Indian cities with Dubai, you can experience life abroad while staying relatively close to family and familiar support networks.
Studying in Dubai as an Indian student
Dubai offers Indian students the opportunity to earn a recognised international education while living in a global city close to home. Indian students are also the largest group of international students in Dubai's higher education sector, representing 43% of the total in 2024–25.
Why choose Dubai as your study abroad destination?
Studying abroad is about more than just earning a qualification. It is an experience of a lifetime. For Indian students, Dubai offers an international study experience within easy reach of home, with a growing economy, diverse communities and strong connections to global industries. Choosing Dubai for your higher education studies means:
Gain experience in a global business hub
Studying here gives you exposure to industries operating across international markets and help you understand how businesses work in a global environment.
Build an international network
Dubai’s diverse population brings together people from diverse nationalities. As a student, you can build friendships that extend beyond India and the UAE.
Experience a multicultural environment
According to the Indian Embassy in Dubai, approximately 4.3 million Indian nationals reside in the UAE, with more than half living in Dubai*.
*https://www.indembassyuae.gov.in/page/indian-community-in-uae/
Develop skills for an international career
Studying in Dubai can help you develop communication, adaptability, teamwork and cross-cultural skills alongside your academic knowledge.
Enjoy a well-connected student destination
Dubai has an extensive public transport network and modern infrastructure, making it easier to travel between your accommodation, campus and the wider city.
Cost of studying in Dubai for Indian students
Planning your finances is an important part of studying abroad. Your overall budget will depend on your course, accommodation, lifestyle and other personal expenses. When calculating your costs, consider:
Tuition fees
Accommodation
Food and utilities
Transport
Health insurance
Personal and leisure spending
Create a realistic monthly budget before travelling to Dubai. For Indian students, comparing your expected costs in AED with your current INR spending will make financial planning easier. However, exchange rates change, so check the Reserve Bank of India's reference exchange rate closer to your travel dates.
Student safety
Dubai is widely recognised as a safe destination for students, with well-developed infrastructure, reliable public services and dedicated emergency services.
Strict laws and regulations
Dubai has clear laws covering public behaviour, road safety and other aspects of daily life.
Well-developed infrastructure
Well-maintained roads, public spaces and essential services support students as they travel between their accommodation, the campus and the wider city.
Accessible healthcare
Dubai has a wide network of hospitals, clinics and pharmacies, providing access to healthcare services when students need them.
Supportive environment
Dubai has a wide network of hospitals, clinics and pharmacies, providing access to healthcare services when students need them.
Emergency support
Dubai's emergency services provide round-the-clock assistance,
giving students access to help when they need it, including
outside typical campus and business hours.
Police, medical emergency, fire and coastguard numbers:
999
Dubai Police
998
Ambulance
997
Fire Department
996
Coastguard
901
Tourism Police
991
Electricity failure
922
Water failure
Students should remain aware of their surroundings, respect local laws and customs and follow guidance from their institution and UAE authorities.
Student visa requirements for Indian students
If you are planning to study in Dubai from India, you will need a student residence permit to live in the UAE during your studies. The educational institution you enrol in must be accredited, as it will act as your host and guarantor for your residence permit. Visa requirements can vary based on individual circumstances, so it’s important to check the latest guidelines before making travel arrangements. Generally, you should prepare the following:
Medical fitness test
Complete an approved medical fitness examination.
Emirates ID
Complete the Emirates ID application process.
Valid passport
Provide a copy of your valid passport
Visa fees
Pay the applicable residence permit and service fees.
Recent photograph
Submit a recent coloured photograph with a white background
Admission to an accredited institution
You must be enrolled in an accredited educational institution in the UAE.
Health insurance
Obtain valid health insurance as required by the residence permit.
Applying through GBS Dubai
Once you have secured your place at GBS Dubai, the admissions team can help you understand the visa process and the documentation required for your application. You should also check the latest visa information from the UAE Government and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) before travelling, as requirements and fees can change.
Career opportunities in Dubai
Dubai is home to major industries including business, finance, technology, construction and healthcare, creating opportunities for graduates with relevant skills and qualifications. Studying in Dubai can help you understand these industries while developing skills for a competitive international workplace. At GBS Dubai, you can access career support alongside your studies through the Employability & Progression Centre, including:
Career planning
Explore career options and identify your next steps.
CV and interview support
Improve your CV and prepare for job interviews.
Work opportunities
Get guidance on internships, part-time and full-time roles.
Employer connections
Attend career fairs, employer events, industry sessions and networking opportunities.
Entrepreneurship support
Develop business ideas, create business plans and explore the steps involved in starting a venture.
For UAE-based students, this combination of industry exposure, practical skills and career support can help you prepare for opportunities in Dubai, across the UAE or in international markets.
Hear from the GBS Dubai Family
Aziza
GBS Dubai student from Dagestan
“Dubai is such a safe place to study. My teachers are kind and supportive and have built my self-confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Indian students choose to study in Dubai?
Indian students choose Dubai because it offers an international study environment while remaining relatively close to India. The city also has a multicultural population, a strong business environment and a growing higher education sector, giving students opportunities to experience life in a global city while developing career-focused skills.
What is the cost of living in Dubai for Indian students?
The cost of living depends on factors such as accommodation, location, food, transport and lifestyle. Students should create a monthly budget that includes both essential expenses and personal spending. Dubai also offers different accommodation and lifestyle options, so costs can vary significantly depending on your choices.
Can Indian students work while studying in Dubai?
Whether you can work while studying depends on your visa status, institution and the relevant UAE regulations. Students should check the latest requirements with their institution and the appropriate UAE authorities before taking up employment or an internship.
What are the entry requirements for Indian students to study in Dubai?
Entry requirements vary according to the institution and course. You may need to provide academic qualifications, identification and evidence of English language proficiency. GBS Dubai accepts a range of English language qualifications for its programmes, with requirements varying according to the level of study.
What accommodation options are available for students in Dubai?
Students can choose from different accommodation options, including purpose-built student residences, shared accommodation and private rental properties. Your choice will depend on your budget, preferred location and whether you want to live alone or with other students.
What is student life like in Dubai?
Student life in Dubai combines study with opportunities to explore a multicultural city. Students can experience different cultures, meet people from around the world and take advantage of the city's entertainment, dining, transport and leisure options. At GBS Dubai, students also have access to dedicated spaces for studying and socialising as well as support services throughout their studies.
How can Indian students apply to GBS Dubai?
Start by choosing a course that matches your academic background and career goals, then submit an enquiry or application to GBS Dubai. The admissions team can guide you through the application process, required documents and next steps. Applying early can also give you more time to prepare for your move, accommodation and visa arrangements.
What support is available for Indian students at GBS Dubai?
GBS Dubai provides academic, welfare and careers support throughout the student journey. This includes study skills support, help with academic writing and assessments, personal and wellbeing support, career planning, CV and interview preparation and guidance around internships and employment opportunities.