Why Leading Global Universities Are Expanding to Dubai — and How Students Can Benefit

The world of higher education is undergoing a profound transformation — and it’s not just about going online.

Think about it: to earn a degree from a British or American university, you no longer need to fly to London or New York. Increasingly, top institutions are opening campuses around the world — including in the Middle East, particularly in the United Arab Emirates. This shift makes on-campus education more accessible, while maintaining the same academic quality and standards as their home universities.

Why is this trend gaining momentum? And what new opportunities does it open for students? Let’s take a closer look.

Contents:

• Why universities are opening campuses in the Middle East
• Examples of international universities with branches in Dubai
• Why students choose Dubai
• How to apply to an international campus in the UAE

Why Universities Are Opening Campuses in the Middle East?

Let’s explore the main reasons behind this trend, using Dubai — one of the region’s largest higher-education hubs — as an example.

1. A major education hub with a strategic location

Dubai has built a modern educational ecosystem that includes innovative zones such as Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park. This gives universities access to ready-made infrastructure for launching their branch campuses, along with proximity to key student markets across the Middle East, South and Southeast Asia, and Africa.

2. Transparent regulation and qualification recognition

Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) oversees accreditation and quality assurance for higher education institutions. This regulatory framework ensures that university qualifications are recognized both within the UAE and in many other countries — a crucial factor for maintaining academic credibility.

3. International growth strategy

Establishing a campus in Dubai is a powerful strategic move for universities aiming to strengthen their global brand presence and attract new cohorts of students in a rapidly developing region.

4. Government support

Some major international projects — such as NYU Abu Dhabi — have been launched in close partnership with government foundations. This kind of support reduces financial barriers and makes campus expansion more sustainable for universities.

5. Local partnerships and collaborations

Branch campuses in Dubai allow universities to build strong connections with regional employers, research centers, and industry clusters. These partnerships enrich academic programs, foster internships, and help align education with the skills needed in the local and global job markets.

Examples of International Universities with Branch Campuses in Dubai

GBS Dubai (Global Business Studies) — GBS Dubai is part of the UK-based GBS (Global Banking School) network. Its Dubai campus opened in the summer of 2021 and offers programs accredited by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The university follows British academic standards, including BTEC (Business and Technology Education Council) and HND (Higher National Diploma) qualifications awarded by Pearson.

SAE University College Dubai — a college within the international SAE Institute network, a leading institution for creative media education. Located in Dubai Knowledge Park, the campus offers programs in audio production, design, animation, film, games, and computer technologies. Students benefit from industry-standard studios, cutting-edge equipment, and a strong focus on hands-on, project-based learning.

Heriot-Watt University Dubai — the first British university to open a campus in the UAE in 2005. Located in Dubai Knowledge Park, the campus serves nearly 5,000 students from over 100 countries. The university offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs in fields such as engineering, business, information technology, energy, geosciences, design, and social sciences. Programs are accredited both in the UK and the UAE.

American University in Dubai (AUD) — one of the leading private universities in the UAE, founded in 1995. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in architecture, engineering, business, communications, and other disciplines. AUD is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) in the USA and by the UAE Ministry of Education. Its 1 million sq. ft. campus in Dubai Media City includes academic buildings, dormitories, sports facilities, and student areas.

Canadian University Dubai (CUD) — a private university founded in 2006. Recognized as the best university in Dubai according to QS World University Rankings 2025, it has two campuses — the main campus in City Walk and a new campus in downtown Dubai. CUD offers programs in architecture, engineering, business, and more. All programs are accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and meet Canadian educational standards.

Why Students Choose Dubai?

1. An internationally recognized degree at more accessible conditions

Teaching at international branch campuses in Dubai follows the same academic programs as at their home universities. However, tuition fees are often significantly lower than in the UK, the US, or Australia. Geography also plays a role: for many international students, the UAE is a far more convenient and affordable option in terms of distance and travel.

2. State-of-the-art infrastructure and technology

Universities in Dubai boast advanced facilities — modern laboratories (including IT labs), libraries, multimedia classrooms, and creative studios. In most cases, branch campuses are equipped at the same level as their main counterparts. This is particularly important for disciplines such as engineering, computer science, medicine, and creative industries, where technical resources directly affect learning quality.

3. A multicultural environment and global networking

Dubai is one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities, home to people from over 200 nationalities. International students find this diversity invaluable — it helps them build friendships and professional connections across the globe, improve their language skills, and develop essential cross-cultural communication abilities.

4. Safety and quality of life

Safety is one of Dubai’s strongest advantages. The city is known for its strict laws, low crime rate, and high standards of healthcare and public services. Combined with excellent transportation, reliable infrastructure, and modern residential areas, this makes Dubai one of the most comfortable and secure places to live and study.

5. Career opportunities and professional growth

Dubai hosts a wide range of international and regional companies, startups, and technology parks. This gives students access to internships, real-world projects, and industry networking opportunities in their chosen fields. As practical experience becomes increasingly valued by employers, studying in Dubai provides a meaningful head start for a global career.

How to Apply to an International Campus in the UAE?

Dreaming of a degree from a world-class university, but not ready to move to the US or the UK? Studying at an international branch campus in the UAE might be the perfect alternative.

That said, admission to an international university campus in Dubai comes with its own specific steps. Below is a brief guide to help international applicants navigate the process.

1. Choose your program and university

• Decide on your field of study — engineering, business, IT, design, or life and health sciences.
• Explore international branch campuses such as Heriot-Watt University Dubai, American University in Dubai (AUD), Canadian University Dubai (CUD), GBS Dubai, and SAE University College Dubai.
• Compare programs in terms of course content, duration, and tuition fees.

2. Check admission requirements

• Typically, you’ll need a high school diploma or a bachelor’s degree, results from standardized tests (IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, ACT), recommendation letters, and a personal statement.
• Some programs — especially in design or media — may also require a portfolio or entrance test results.

3. Prepare your documents

• A valid passport and certified English translations of all academic documents.
• Academic transcripts and official test scores.
• A motivation letter, recommendation letters, and a résumé (if required).

4. Submit your application

• Applications are usually submitted directly through the university’s website or via accredited representatives.
• Deadlines typically fall 6–12 months before the start of the academic year — check with each university to avoid missing your intake window.

5. Interview and additional stages

• Some programs may require an online interview or test assignment.
• Prepare in advance — interviewers often assess your motivation, study goals, and future career plans.

6. Visa process and onboarding

• Once admitted, the university will assist with obtaining a student visa and registering with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) — Dubai’s higher education regulator.
• Many students also receive guidance on accommodation arrangements and health insurance.

7. Professional guidance and support

Studying at an international branch campus can be an excellent and cost-effective choice — but the admission process still requires time, effort, and careful preparation.

At Education Explorer, we help applicants at every step: from choosing the right university and program to preparing applications and interview coaching. With our expert guidance, you’ll save time, avoid common mistakes, and significantly increase your chances of admission.

Need Help Applying?

Get personalized guidance from our admissions experts — wherever you are in the world.

You can book an individual consultation in any convenient way:

— directly in your personal account,

— on the page of your chosen university,

— or by emailing us at support@ed-ex.com.