Checkout the Masters in Economics in UAE....
Apr 28, 2025 03:31:35
New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD)
Degree: M.A. in Economics (through collaboration with NYU in New York)
Focus: Research-intensive, preparation for PhD programs, strong in quantitative economics.
Language: English
Scholarships: Strong financial aid and scholarships available.
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) – Al Ain
Degree: Master of Science in Economics
Focus: Advanced economic theory, applied economics, research skills.
Language: English
Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships for international students.
American University of Sharjah (AUS)
Degree: Master of Science in Economics
Focus: Applied economics, business economics, econometrics.
Language: English
Scholarships: Some financial aid options for international students.
University of Dubai
Degree: Master of Science in Economics (recent programs, may vary year to year)
Focus: Business economics, policy design, regional economics.
Language: English
Scholarships: Limited scholarships, but installment payment plans available.
Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
Degree: Master's programs in related fields (Economics & Finance)
Focus: European education model combined with regional topics.
Language: English (sometimes bilingual with French)
Scholarships: Available.
Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Business, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field.
GPA: Minimum requirements vary (typically 3.0/4.0 or equivalent).
English proficiency:
IELTS (usually 6.0–7.0) or
TOEFL (usually 79–100 iBT).
Recommendation Letters: Usually 2–3 academic or professional references.
Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter.
CV/Resume.
Some programs may require GRE (especially NYUAD if targeting PhD pathways).
$10,000 to $30,000 USD per year depending on the university and program.
Additional living expenses in UAE: Around $10,000–$15,000/year.
Global Hub: Access to Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe.
English-taught Programs: No language barrier.
Strong job market in finance, policy, consulting, and academia.
Tax-free income after graduation if you stay in UAE for work.
New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD)
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), Al Ain
American University of Sharjah (AUS)
University of Dubai
Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
Khalifa University (economics-related specializations, mainly tech and innovation economics)
Zayed University (economics-related master's options within business programs)
Must have a Bachelor's degree in Economics, Finance, Business, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field.
Minimum GPA: Typically at least 3.0 out of 4.0 (or equivalent, like 75% aggregate).
Some universities accept lower GPA with strong supporting documents (e.g., work experience).
Required if your previous degree was not taught in English.
Common accepted tests:
IELTS Academic: Minimum 6.0–7.0 overall.
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79–100.
EmSAT English: Some local universities accept scores above 1400–1500.
Some programs (especially more research-focused ones) may ask for:
GRE (Graduate Record Examination) — not mandatory everywhere but preferred for competitive programs like at NYUAD.
Many business/economics schools waive GRE/GMAT if your profile is strong.
Not always required, but professional or research experience can strengthen your application.
Some programs targeted at working professionals may ask for 1–2 years of experience.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): Explaining your goals, why you want the program, etc.
Letters of Recommendation: Usually 2–3 academic or professional references.
CV/Resume: Academic background, work experience, internships, skills.
Some universities may conduct an interview (online or in-person).
Submission of transcripts, passport copy (for international students), and sometimes equivalency certificates if your degree is from outside the UAE.
Full-time study: 1.5 to 2 years
(Usually 3–4 semesters)
Part-time study (if available): 2.5 to 3 years
(Some universities allow flexible pacing for working professionals.)
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU): Around 2 years full-time.
American University of Sharjah (AUS): About 2 years full-time.
University of Dubai: Around 18–24 months depending on course load.
Paris Sorbonne Abu Dhabi: Typically 2 years, especially for combined programs (Economics & Finance).
NYU Abu Dhabi (if applicable): Master's-related pathways generally expect 2 years.
Pure 100% Online Master's in Economics from UAE universities is rare.
Most top UAE universities require on-campus attendance for Economics master's degrees because of the heavy research, quantitative, and thesis components.
However, there are some blended (part online, part in-person) options — especially after COVID-19, flexibility increased.
University |
Mode |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) |
Mostly On-campus |
Some courses may be online, but Master's in Economics is not fully online. |
|
University of Dubai |
Hybrid (for some business programs) |
Economics-related Master's can have partial online classes. |
|
Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) |
Fully Online (Business Economics Focus) |
Offers online programs in business and management; not pure Economics, but related fields like Business Intelligence, Finance, and Policy. |
|
Mohamed bin Zayed University for Humanities |
Online/Hybrid |
Offers Master's programs in Humanities and Social Sciences with economics elements; not a pure Economics degree. |
Fall Intake (August–September start)
Spring Intake (January–February start)
Intake |
Application Period |
Final Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (Sep) |
January – May/June |
Late May or Early June |
|
Spring (Jan) |
August – October/November |
Late October or November |
University |
Estimated Total Tuition Fees (Master’s in Economics) |
|---|---|
|
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) |
AED 60,000–80,000 (approx. $16,000–22,000 USD) |
|
American University of Sharjah (AUS) |
AED 85,000–95,000 (approx. $23,000–26,000 USD) |
|
University of Dubai |
AED 75,000–90,000 (approx. $20,000–24,500 USD) |
|
Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi |
AED 90,000–110,000 (approx. $24,500–30,000 USD) |
|
NYU Abu Dhabi (via NYU Global Network) |
Varies (scholarship heavy; $50,000+ USD full cost, but most students get aid) |
Public universities like UAEU are cheaper than private ones.
Private universities (AUS, Sorbonne) are more expensive but often offer more facilities and international exposure.
Scholarships: Many universities offer 20%–100% scholarships for academic excellence or financial need.
Additional Costs: Some programs also charge:
Registration fees (~AED 2,000–3,000)
Thesis supervision fees (one-time)
Graduation fees
Duration: 1 year (full-time)
Tuition: $82,960 (approx. AED 304,000)
Total Estimated Cost of Attendance: $110,185 (includes tuition, housing, health insurance, and personal expenses)
Note: As of now, NYUAD is not accepting applications for this program.
Duration: 1.5–2 years
Tuition: AED 90,000–100,000
Highlights: Focus on UAE and GCC economic policy; strong connections with Dubai's government and private sectors.
Duration: 1 year (full-time)
Tuition: AED 70,000–85,000
Features: UK-accredited degree; diverse international student body.
Duration: 1 year (full-time)
Tuition: AED 80,000–90,000
Note: While not exclusively an Economics program, it offers relevant electives.
Duration: 2 years
Tuition: AED 166,400 (approx. USD 45,344)
Focus: Specialization in health economics within a French academic framework.
Accommodation: AED 2,800–8,000 (depending on location and type)
Food: AED 800–1,200
Transportation: AED 200–400
Miscellaneous (entertainment, personal expenses): AED 500–1,000
Identify suitable universities offering a Master's in Economics in UAE.
Consider factors such as tuition fees, course structure, duration, scholarships, and location.
Typically, eligibility criteria include:
Bachelor's degree in Economics, Business, Finance, or a related field.
Minimum GPA: usually around 2.5–3.0 out of 4.0 (or equivalent).
English language proficiency tests: IELTS (6.0–6.5) or TOEFL (79–90).
Completed application form.
Bachelor’s degree certificate and academic transcripts (official copies).
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume.
Statement of Purpose (SOP).
Recommendation letters (usually 2).
English proficiency test results (IELTS/TOEFL).
Copy of passport (valid for at least 6 months).
Passport-sized photographs.
Complete and submit the application online through the university’s official admissions portal.
Alternatively, you can send your application via email or post, depending on the university's instructions.
Pay the non-refundable application fee (typically AED 200–500, depending on the university).
Some universities may require an interview (in-person or online).
In some cases, applicants might also need to pass a written test or assessment.
Admission decisions typically take between 2 to 6 weeks.
The university will communicate results via email.
Upon receiving an offer letter, you must confirm your acceptance by signing and returning the necessary documents.
You may need to pay a tuition deposit to secure your seat (usually AED 2,000–5,000).
Once admission is confirmed, the university usually assists international students with student visa applications.
Submit visa-required documents (passport copy, photographs, medical fitness certificate, proof of funds).
Arrange housing, either on-campus (if available) or privately.
Plan travel and prepare to move to the UAE for your studies.
Coverage: Full or partial tuition fees.
Eligibility: Need-based, for international students.
Application: Apply during the admissions process.
Additional Information: Covers tuition, living expenses, and health insurance.
Note: Applicants must demonstrate financial need and academic excellence.
Coverage: Partial to full tuition fee waiver.
Eligibility: High-achieving students with excellent academic records.
Application: Automatically considered upon applying for admission.
Additional Information: Scholarships are awarded based on GPA and academic performance in the undergraduate degree.
Coverage: Up to 50% of tuition fees.
Eligibility: Open to all international students.
Application: Scholarships are automatically considered when applying for the program.
Additional Information: Academic merit, financial need, and leadership qualities are considered.
Coverage: Up to 25% of tuition fees.
Eligibility: International students with exceptional academic records.
Application: Apply at the time of admission.
Additional Information: Offers a chance for financial relief for students excelling in their undergraduate studies.
Coverage: Partial tuition fee coverage.
Eligibility: Based on academic excellence and financial need.
Application: Awarded based on the initial application for the program.
Additional Information: Typically granted to students with outstanding academic performance during their undergraduate studies.
Coverage: Full tuition fee coverage and a monthly stipend.
Eligibility: Open to all international students applying to graduate programs.
Application: Apply through the university's graduate admissions portal.
Additional Information: This scholarship is primarily for students who have achieved excellent academic performance in their undergraduate studies.
Coverage: Full tuition fee coverage.
Eligibility: Merit-based scholarships for students pursuing graduate studies.
Application: Apply during the admissions process.
Additional Information: Zayed University offers graduate scholarships for those demonstrating outstanding academic ability.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Scholarships
Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
Eligibility: International students from developing countries.
Additional Information: Focus on students with high potential in their respective fields.
UAE Government Scholarships for International Students
Coverage: Full funding for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
Eligibility: Available to students from select countries, usually based on academic performance.
Application: Typically applied through the UAE embassy or consulate in the home country.
Al Qasimi Foundation Scholarships
Coverage: Varies, but can include tuition and living costs.
Eligibility: Open to students from certain countries, especially those pursuing research-based Master's degrees in Economics.
Application: Apply through the Al Qasimi Foundation's official website.
Sector: Government, Financial Institutions, Research Firms, Think Tanks
Role: Analyze economic data and trends, prepare reports, forecast economic conditions, and provide insights to aid decision-making.
Skills: Statistical analysis, economic modeling, data interpretation.
Average Salary: AED 10,000–18,000 per month.
Sector: Banks, Investment Firms, Corporate Finance Departments
Role: Analyze financial data, assess investment opportunities, and create financial models to guide business strategies.
Skills: Financial modeling, Excel, financial reporting, valuation.
Average Salary: AED 12,000–20,000 per month.
Sector: Government, NGOs, International Organizations
Role: Provide advice on economic policies, assess their impact, and propose recommendations for improving economic conditions and public welfare.
Skills: Policy analysis, communication, economic research.
Average Salary: AED 15,000–25,000 per month.
Sector: Corporations, Marketing Agencies, Consulting Firms
Role: Conduct market research, analyze consumer trends, and help companies optimize their marketing strategies.
Skills: Data analysis, survey techniques, report writing, statistical software proficiency.
Average Salary: AED 10,000–16,000 per month.
Sector: Multinational Corporations, UAE Government Ministries, International Organizations (World Bank, IMF)
Role: Conduct economic research and analysis to provide insights into national and global economic conditions, influence policy-making, and guide corporate decision-making.
Skills: Strong analytical skills, proficiency in econometrics and data analysis.
Average Salary: AED 12,000–20,000 per month.
Sector: Investment Banks, Corporate Finance
Role: Help corporations and governments raise capital, conduct mergers and acquisitions, and provide advisory services on large financial transactions.
Skills: Financial analysis, negotiation, understanding of financial markets.
Average Salary: AED 18,000–35,000 per month (depending on experience).
Sector: Consulting Firms, Corporate Strategy Departments
Role: Analyze business environments, develop strategies to improve profitability, and advise senior executives on business and economic strategies.
Skills: Problem-solving, strategic planning, data analysis.
Average Salary: AED 12,000–20,000 per month.
Sector: Consulting Firms, International Organizations, Government
Role: Specialize in international trade, economic development, and infrastructure projects, advising clients on economic feasibility and policy implications.
Skills: Expertise in international economics, policy analysis, project management.
Average Salary: AED 15,000–22,000 per month.
Sector: Banks, Investment Companies, Insurance
Role: Assess and manage risks related to investments, loans, and other financial transactions to mitigate potential losses.
Skills: Risk analysis, financial modeling, statistical techniques.
Average Salary: AED 13,000–18,000 per month.
Sector: Universities, Academic Research Institutions
Role: Teach economics at a university level, conduct research, and contribute to academic publications.
Skills: Research, teaching, publication, communication.
Average Salary: AED 12,000–18,000 per month (depends on the institution and experience).
Sector: Tech Firms, Research Institutes, Financial Services
Role: Apply data science techniques to economic data, create predictive models, and analyze trends.
Skills: Data science, machine learning, econometrics, programming (Python, R).
Average Salary: AED 15,000–22,000 per month.
Sector: Banks, Trading Firms, Investment Corporations
Role: Analyze foreign exchange markets or commodity prices, identify trends, and provide forecasts for traders or investors.
Skills: Knowledge of global markets, statistical analysis, attention to detail.
Average Salary: AED 12,000–18,000 per month.
Start-ups and Entrepreneurship: Graduates can venture into their own businesses, particularly in consultancy, finance, or e-commerce.
International Opportunities: UAE's global connectivity means that graduates can often find roles in international organizations, NGOs, or multinational companies.
The UAE offers a dynamic job market, especially in sectors like banking, finance, government, consulting, and international trade, all of which require strong economic expertise.
Additionally, UAE’s emphasis on becoming a global business hub, along with its active investment in infrastructure and development, creates various openings for economists in public and private sectors.
