Where to Study Design in Dubai: Top Universities and Career Opportunities

Table of Contents:

• Design Education in Dubai: Top Universities
• Career Prospects
• Internships and Practical Experience
• Cost of Design Education
• Conclusion

Dubai is one of the global hubs for innovation and creativity, with thriving fields such as graphic design, interior design, industrial design, digital design, and fashion design. Every year, hundreds of young, talented, and creative individuals from around the world come to study in Dubai. This is no coincidence — Dubai universities with design faculties offer exceptional opportunities for students aiming to pursue a career in design after studying in Dubai.

Let's take a look at some of the best universities for studying design in Dubai, the cost of education, internship opportunities, and career prospects.

Design Education in Dubai: Top Universities

One of the leading institutions for design education in Dubai is the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI). Established in 2018, DIDI offers a unique Bachelor of Design (BDes) program, allowing students to combine two of four offered specializations, creating a personalized educational path.

Another prestigious university is Middlesex University Dubai, the Dubai campus of a well-known British university. Established in 2005, it offers a variety of design programs for international students, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in graphic design and interior design. The university ensures a high academic standard and strong industry connections.

Istituto Marangoni, a renowned Italian fashion and design school, also has a campus in Dubai. It provides competitive education in fashion, business, and design, making it an attractive choice for students looking to earn a highly respected diploma.

Career Prospects After Studying Design in Dubai

Graduating from a design program in Dubai opens up a wide range of career opportunities—not just in the UAE, but internationally as well.

First, Dubai is heavily investing in the creative economy, making it an attractive destination for aspiring designers. Graduates can find opportunities in architecture firms, design agencies, advertising companies, IT firms, and fashion houses. Professionals specializing in UX/UI design, branding, visual communication, and interior design are in high demand.

Salaries for designers in Dubai vary based on experience and specialization. Entry-level interior designers can earn between 5,000 and 10,000 AED per month, while experienced professionals may earn between 15,000 and 30,000 AED.

Second, design education in Dubai provides a competitive edge in the global job market. Graduates can pursue careers in major design hubs like London, Paris, New York, or Milan—or even launch their own brands.

With high-quality teaching, hands-on experience with international companies, and exposure to real-world projects, students gain the skills needed to succeed globally. Additionally, major events such as Dubai Design Week and Fashion Forward Dubai offer great networking opportunities for emerging talents.

Internships and Practical Experience in the Design Field in Dubai

Many universities in Dubai collaborate with industry leaders, offering students valuable internships and practical experience. This hands-on training significantly enhances job prospects after graduation.

Several top organizations in Dubai provide internship programs for design students, including:

• Dubai Design & Fashion Council: An organization dedicated to supporting the region’s design and fashion industries.
• Art Dubai: The largest international art fair in the Middle East, offering internships in art and design.

When choosing a university, it’s essential to check its industry partnerships and internship opportunities — this information is typically available on official university websites.

Cost of Design Education in Dubai

The cost of design programs in Dubai varies depending on the university and the specific program. Some institutions also offer additional support services, such as language courses and cultural integration programs, which can affect overall tuition fees.

Here are examples of tuition fees at some of the top universities for design in Dubai:

1. Istituto Marangoni Dubai

• Foundation (preparatory program): Around $20,000 per year.
• Bachelor’s degree: Approximately $26,700 per year.

2. SAE Institute Dubai

• Short courses: Ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 per course (lasting 6 weeks to 6 months).
• Diploma programs: Between $12,000 and $15,000 for a 1–2-year program.
• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BSc): $18,000 to $20,000 per year, with a total cost of $36,000 to $60,000 for 2–3 years of study.

3. Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI)

• Bachelor’s degree: Around 100,000 AED per year.

The four-year program allows students to combine two disciplines from the following: Product Design, Multimedia Design, Fashion Design, and Strategic Design Management.

4. Middlesex University Dubai

• Bachelor’s and Master’s programs: Between 70,000 and 100,000 AED per year, depending on the chosen specialization.

It’s also important to factor in additional expenses such as accommodation, study materials, and personal costs.

Good news: Many universities offer scholarships that can significantly reduce tuition fees for international students.

Conclusion

If you’re wondering how to become a designer in Dubai, the first step is choosing the right design education program. Explore different universities, paying close attention to accreditation, internships in the design field in Dubai, and industry connections.

After graduation, it’s essential to network, participate in industry events, and continue improving your skills to enhance your employment opportunities for designers in Dubai and beyond.

Design programs in Dubai provide an excellent foundation for a successful career. With a dynamic job market, world-class education, and hands-on experience, Dubai is an exciting place to launch your journey as a designer.

Could you be the next big name in design?