Why Students Are Choosing Dubai Over the US, UK and Australia for Higher Education

Dubai emerged as more than a stopover for international students, as it has been observed that the coffee shops in Dubai International Academic City's global education centre are now "international corridors," with students speaking Arabic, Hindi, Russian, and Swahili languages, with laptops in front of them. It has been clarified that for many young people, Dubai is no longer a transit point on a journey from home to the West. It has become a destination where they would like to study, launch their careers, and, if possibilities arise, stay on a long-term basis.

Enrolment Trends and International Students

Available research data suggested that this situation would not be short-lived. It was reported that in the most recent academic year, 42,026 students were enrolled in the 41 private institutions in Dubai, reflecting a 20% increase in enrollment. The UAE university's international enrollment increased, displaying a 29% rise, now comprising a third of the total international enrollment. The white paper, issued by Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park, predicted that enrollment might increase by more than 40% by 2030.

Experts reported that the number of international students in Dubai, with origins from India, is 42%, with a majority taking courses in business and technology. It has been noticed that students are now choosing Dubai over other common destinations such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. The reasons are closer flight routes, cultural familiarity, easy visa norms, and the availability of job opportunities in a rapidly growing economy. An increased number of students are now coming from Africa and the Middle East, thanks to airline connections to the UAE, a country where people from 206 different nationalities live together.

Universities' Enlargement, Affiliated Campuses, And Foreign

It has been observed that many international universities have already established themselves in the UAE with branch campuses, which would take advantage of this developing sector, commented observers. Dubai is home to branches of top universities from all over the globe, with Abu Dhabi and Sharjah emerging as exciting options for high-quality education, said experts, which enhances the education hub of the Middle East, UAE.

It was also reported that come the 2025–26 academic year, three more internationally acclaimed universities, among which is India’s IIM Ahmedabad, would set up campuses in Dubai. This is part of a larger plan that includes setting up 25 new schools, kindergartens, and universities that would increase the number of student slots by thousands. The Dubai government also launched Dubai National University with an investment of AED 4.5 billion to develop local research and postgraduate programs.

Policy and Strategy for Education and Careers Authorities described that these projects were part of the Dubai Economic Agenda “D33”, which aimed to double the economy of the city by 2033, putting it on the list of the top three cities worldwide to live, work, and invest in. The development of education, along with human capital, appeared to be a major component within this.

The Education 33 (E33), launched in 2024, aimed to see the end of institution-centric education, with a focus on delivering skills for life success at all life stages. The reports also stated that the policy is aimed at giving job opportunities to nearly 90% of the graduates. In a “Jobs of the Future" report, which is being created by the Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai, together with the KHDA, the job markets can be satisfied in relation to AI, Green Technology, and Advanced Services. Schools, as well as universities, are encouraged to develop educational programs that fit the skills required in such areas.

In conclusion, experts are generally in agreement that the emergence of the UAE as a new global education and career hub in 2025 is a result of international student numbers, favourable visa regulations, and government support. The UAE’s education system and branch campus models are transforming the UAE’s higher education landscape, with students from India, Africa, and other continents being attracted to the UAE. The UAE’s plans for universities, ambitious policies, and a career path are positioning this country as a beacon Dubai academic city destination for international students worldwide.

Editor’s Note:

The growth of Dubai as an educational hub for the entire world indicates a significant shift in the choice of destinations for students. Today, students are increasingly looking for options that go beyond the usual destinations, but are lured by destinations that promise educational excellence as well as a future career path. In that regard, Dubai’s uniqueness includes modern infrastructure, cultural diversity, and connections with the industry. Additionally, the rising number of international students reflects that this is not a passing phenomenon. Factors such as favourable visa regulations, reduced travel distances, and cultural familiarity have made it particularly attractive for students from India, Africa, and the Middle East to come to the UAE. It has also instilled confidence in the quality of the degree offered within the country, with the presence of globally recognised universities within the UAE.

Government initiatives like D33 and Education 33 underscore the overarching vision driving development. A key focus is linking education with high-growth job markets, such as technology and sustainability. Skoobuzz believes that this strategic connection positions Dubai not just as a centre for learning but also as a prime location for professional career development.

FAQs

1. Does the UAE have a good education system?

Yes, the UAE has developed a modern and inclusive education system. The government has introduced smart learning programmes, revised curricula, and teacher licensing systems to improve quality. Education is compulsory for children aged 6 to 18, and universities are increasingly recognised worldwide.

2. Is Global Education a good buy?

Global education is considered a worthwhile investment. UNESCO and other organisations highlight that funding education supports long‑term growth, innovation and social progress. The global education sector, including EdTech, is expanding rapidly and is seen as a strong area for investment.

3. Is the UAE a good place to study?

Yes, the UAE is now a preferred destination for international students. It hosts branch campuses of leading global universities, offers favourable visa rules, and links higher education to career opportunities in a fast‑growing economy. Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are all recognised as attractive study hubs.

4. Which rank is the UAE in education?

In 2025, several UAE universities entered the QS World University Rankings top 500, with Khalifa University ranked 202nd globally. This reflects the UAE’s growing reputation as a centre for world‑class education.

5. Is the UAE cancelling term 2 exams?

Yes, the UAE Ministry of Education announced in 2025 that second‑term exams were cancelled. The system now uses continuous and school‑based assessments to reduce stress and improve learning outcomes. This change applies across all grades from 1 to 12.