Checkout the Masters in International Business in UAE....
Apr 28, 2025 02:12:08
University of Dubai
Program: MSc in International Business and Marketing
Language: English
Duration: 1–2 years
Accreditation: AACSB (top global accreditation)
Hult International Business School (Dubai Campus)
Program: Master of International Business
Language: English
Duration: 1 year
Special Features: Highly international student body, U.S.-accredited degree.
Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Program: MSc in International Business Management
Language: English
Duration: 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time)
British degree; campus based in Dubai.
American University in Dubai (AUD)
Program: MBA with an International Business concentration
Language: English
Duration: Around 1–2 years
American curriculum and high-quality facilities.
Middlesex University Dubai
Program: MSc International Business Management
Language: English
Duration: 1 year
British university, affordable compared to other options.
SP Jain School of Global Management (Dubai Campus)
Program: Global MBA (with International Business specialization)
Language: English
Duration: 12 months
Highly ranked internationally for business education.
Bachelor's degree (any discipline, though business-related is preferred)
English proficiency test (IELTS 6.0–7.0 or TOEFL equivalent)
CV/Resume
Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Motivation Letter
Letters of Recommendation
Some programs may ask for work experience (optional)
Around AED 50,000 – AED 100,000 (~USD 13,500–27,000) for the entire program
SP Jain and Hult tend to be on the higher side.
Scholarships are available in many universities (especially merit-based).
Business Hub: Home to more than 20,000 international companies.
Networking Opportunities: Events like Expo 2020 created global business networking opportunities.
Global Exposure: Students and faculty from all over the world.
Post-Study Work Options: New visa rules allow international students to stay and work after graduation.
University |
Program Name |
Duration |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
University of Dubai |
MSc in International Business and Marketing |
1–2 years |
AACSB-accredited; strong local business ties |
|
Hult International Business School (Dubai Campus) |
Master of International Business |
1 year |
U.S.-accredited; highly international |
|
Heriot-Watt University Dubai |
MSc International Business Management |
1 year |
British degree; affordable tuition |
|
Middlesex University Dubai |
MSc International Business Management |
1 year |
British university with moderate fees |
|
SP Jain School of Global Management (Dubai Campus) |
Global MBA (specialization in International Business) |
1 year |
Top-ranked for business education globally |
|
American University in Dubai (AUD) |
MBA with International Business focus |
~1–2 years |
American curriculum; strong industry network |
|
Canadian University Dubai |
MBA with specialization in International Business |
1.5 years |
Canadian education system; downtown Dubai location |
|
University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) |
Master of Business (International Business specialization) |
1.5 years |
Australian degree; well-established campus |
Some universities offer an MBA with a concentration in International Business instead of a pure MSc in International Business.
Language of instruction: All programs are taught in English.
Intakes: Usually September and January, some have May/July intakes too.
Work While Studying: Part-time work opportunities are possible with a student visa under new UAE laws.
Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s Degree |
Must have a recognized undergraduate degree (in any field, though business-related degrees are preferred in some cases). Minimum GPA varies — typically around 2.5–3.0 out of 4.0. |
|
English Language Proficiency |
IELTS (usually 6.0–7.0 overall) or TOEFL equivalent. Some universities waive this if your previous degree was taught in English. |
|
Work Experience |
Not mandatory for most MSc programs. Some MBA programs may prefer or require 1–2 years of work experience. |
|
Statement of Purpose (SOP) |
A written essay (500–1000 words) explaining your motivation for studying International Business, career goals, and why you chose that university. |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
Typically 1–2 letters from academic or professional referees. |
|
CV/Resume |
An updated CV showing academic history, any internships, work experience, skills, and extracurricular activities. |
|
Passport and Visa |
A valid passport. You’ll also need to apply for a UAE student visa after receiving admission. |
|
Interview (sometimes) |
Some universities may conduct a short admissions interview (online or in person). |
GPA Requirements: Top universities like Hult or SP Jain may ask for higher GPAs.
Foundation or Pre-Master’s: If you don't meet entry criteria directly (e.g., low GPA or English score), some universities offer foundation courses.
Conditional Admission: Some schools allow students to enroll conditionally while they complete language requirements.
Study Mode |
Typical Duration |
|---|---|
|
Full-time |
12 to 18 months (1 to 1.5 years) |
|
Part-time |
18 to 24 months (1.5 to 2 years) |
Full-time programs are common for international students (since it aligns with visa requirements).
Some universities offer accelerated options where you can finish in 12 months (especially business schools like Hult or SP Jain).
Part-time options are available mainly for working professionals already based in the UAE.
Intakes typically occur in September and January (some universities also have May or July intakes).
University |
Program Name |
Mode |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Heriot-Watt University Dubai |
MSc International Business Management |
Blended (online + campus) |
You can study mostly online, with optional campus access. |
|
Middlesex University Dubai |
MSc International Business Management |
Online/blended options available |
Online learning with flexibility to attend Dubai campus. |
|
University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) |
Master of Business (International Business specialization) |
Blended |
Offers flexible online learning components. |
|
Amity University Dubai |
MBA in International Business |
Fully Online available |
Affordable and flexible scheduling. |
|
Canadian University Dubai |
MBA with specialization in International Business |
Online/Hybrid |
During COVID, they expanded online delivery; some options remain hybrid. |
Degree Awarded: Same as on-campus students (no difference on your certificate).
Visa Requirements: If you study fully online, you won't need a UAE student visa unless you attend classes physically.
Blended Learning: Many universities now offer a mix — online lectures + optional in-person seminars or workshops.
Accreditation: Always ensure the program is licensed by the UAE’s Ministry of Education and internationally recognized.
Lower tuition and living costs.
Flexibility if you are working or living outside the UAE.
Opportunity to shift to campus study later if desired.
Intake |
Application Period |
Course Start |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake |
February – July |
September |
|
Spring Intake |
September – November |
January/February |
|
(Some Universities) |
May/July Intake |
January – April |
University |
Fall Intake Deadline |
Spring Intake Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
University of Dubai |
July 31 |
November 30 |
|
Hult International Business School (Dubai) |
Rolling admissions (apply early!) |
Rolling |
|
Heriot-Watt University Dubai |
July 1 |
November 1 |
|
Middlesex University Dubai |
July 31 |
December 5 |
|
SP Jain School of Global Management |
Priority deadlines from April; final by July |
October–November |
|
Canadian University Dubai |
June 30 |
November 30 |
|
University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) |
August 15 |
December 10 |
University |
Program Name |
Estimated Total Tuition (AED) |
Estimated Total Tuition (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
University of Dubai |
MSc in International Business and Marketing |
AED 75,000 – 85,000 |
USD 20,500 – 23,000 |
|
Hult International Business School (Dubai) |
Master of International Business |
AED 140,000 – 160,000 |
USD 38,000 – 43,500 |
|
Heriot-Watt University Dubai |
MSc International Business Management |
AED 75,000 – 80,000 |
USD 20,500 – 22,000 |
|
Middlesex University Dubai |
MSc International Business Management |
AED 75,000 |
USD 20,500 |
|
SP Jain School of Global Management (Dubai) |
Global MBA (specialization in International Business) |
AED 130,000 – 150,000 |
USD 35,500 – 41,000 |
|
Canadian University Dubai |
MBA with specialization in International Business |
AED 80,000 – 85,000 |
USD 22,000 – 23,000 |
|
University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) |
Master of Business (International Business specialization) |
AED 95,000 |
USD 26,000 |
Fees can vary slightly depending on scholarships, early-bird discounts, or payment plans.
Hult and SP Jain are more expensive because they are globally ranked business schools.
Some universities offer installment payment options to spread the cost across semesters.
Scholarships of 10%–30% are common for strong academic profiles or early applications.
Application fee: ~ AED 300–500 (~USD 80–135)
Student visa & insurance (if studying in UAE): ~ AED 3,000–4,000 (~USD 800–1,100)
Living expenses: ~ AED 30,000–50,000 per year (~USD 8,000–13,500)
University Type |
Range (AED) |
Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Public/Local Universities |
AED 70,000 – 85,000 |
USD 19,000 – 23,000 |
|
Private/International Campuses |
AED 90,000 – 160,000 |
USD 24,500 – 44,000 |
Example:
Middlesex University Dubai: ~AED 75,000 total (~USD 20,500)
Hult International Business School: ~AED 150,000 total (~USD 41,000)
Expense |
Monthly (AED) |
Annual (AED) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Accommodation (shared) |
2,000 – 3,500 |
24,000 – 42,000 |
Depends on Dubai vs. Sharjah vs. Abu Dhabi |
|
Food & Groceries |
800 – 1,200 |
10,000 – 14,000 |
Cooking at home is cheaper |
|
Transport (Metro/Bus) |
300 – 500 |
3,600 – 6,000 |
Metro card + public buses |
|
Personal Expenses |
400 – 700 |
5,000 – 8,000 |
Phone, clothes, entertainment |
|
Health Insurance (mandatory) |
- |
1,500 – 2,500 |
University or private |
Average total living cost per year:
AED 40,000 – 60,000 (~USD 11,000 – 16,500)
Student visa fees: ~AED 3,000 – 4,000 (USD 800 – 1,100)
Air tickets (if needed): Varies
Books and study materials: ~AED 1,000 – 2,000 per year
Budget Type |
Tuition + Living + Other Costs |
|---|---|
|
Moderate University (e.g., Middlesex, University of Dubai) |
~AED 130,000 – 160,000 (USD 35,000 – 43,500) |
|
Premium University (e.g., Hult, SP Jain) |
~AED 180,000 – 220,000 (USD 49,000 – 60,000) |
Step |
Description |
|---|---|
|
1. Choose the Right University |
Research and shortlist universities offering International Business programs (Middlesex, Heriot-Watt, Hult, etc.). |
|
2. Check Eligibility |
Ensure you meet the entry requirements (Bachelor’s degree, English proficiency, GPA minimum). |
|
3. Prepare Required Documents |
Common documents include: |
|
4. Apply Online |
Complete the online application form on the university’s official website. Pay the application fee (usually AED 300–500). |
|
5. Attend Interview (if needed) |
Some universities (e.g., Hult) may ask for a short video or live interview. |
|
6. Receive Admission Offer |
If accepted, you’ll get an official Offer Letter (conditional or unconditional). |
|
7. Accept Offer and Pay Deposit |
Confirm your place by paying a non-refundable deposit (usually AED 5,000–10,000). |
|
8. Apply for Student Visa |
After accepting the offer, the university helps you process your UAE student visa. This takes about 2–6 weeks. |
|
9. Arrange Accommodation |
Either book on-campus housing or find private accommodation (if you’re moving to UAE). |
|
10. Enroll and Start Classes |
Finalize your fee payments, register for courses, and attend orientation! |
Fall Intake (September): Apply by April–July.
Spring Intake (January): Apply by September–November.
Early applications increase chances of getting scholarships and visa processing in time.
University |
Scholarship Type |
Value |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
University of Dubai |
Academic Excellence Scholarships |
Up to 50% off tuition |
Based on GPA (above 3.5/4.0) and early application. |
|
Heriot-Watt University Dubai |
Merit Scholarships |
10%–40% tuition discount |
Based on undergraduate grades and early admission. |
|
Middlesex University Dubai |
International Study Grant |
AED 5,000 – 25,000 |
Automatically considered during admission; based on academics. |
|
Hult International Business School (Dubai Campus) |
Academic Merit, Global Professional, and Entrepreneurial Impact Scholarships |
USD 5,000 – 20,000 |
Separate application; essay + strong academic/professional profile. |
|
SP Jain School of Global Management (Dubai Campus) |
Merit Scholarships |
Up to 30% tuition discount |
Based on GPA, work experience, and entrance test scores. |
|
University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) |
Academic Merit Scholarship |
15%–25% tuition fee waiver |
Based on GPA of previous degree. |
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation (for Arab students; competitive)
ICT Fund Scholarship (for Emirati and some Arab expat students — not common for business fields though)
External corporate scholarships: Some multinational companies sponsor students based in UAE.
High GPA (e.g., 3.0–3.5 minimum out of 4.0)
English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Scholarship Essay
Letters of recommendation
Early application (applying 6–9 months before intake helps!)
Career Role |
Typical Employers |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
International Business Manager |
Multinational companies (MNCs), logistics firms, global trading companies |
Manage cross-border operations, expansion, and partnerships. |
|
Business Development Manager |
Startups, MNCs, consultancies |
Identify and create new business opportunities, often across countries. |
|
Export/Import Manager |
Trading companies, manufacturing firms |
Handle international trade documentation, compliance, logistics. |
|
Global Marketing Manager |
FMCG companies, luxury brands, tech companies |
Focus on international market research, brand expansion strategies. |
|
Management Consultant |
Consulting firms (e.g., PwC, KPMG, Deloitte) |
Solve strategic business issues for global clients. |
|
Supply Chain Manager |
Logistics firms, shipping companies, airlines |
Focus on global supply chain and distribution strategies. |
|
Financial Analyst (International focus) |
Banks, investment firms, financial consultancies |
Analyze global markets, currency risks, and international investment opportunities. |
|
Entrepreneur (International Business Startups) |
Own business/startup |
Many MIB graduates launch import/export, tech, or service businesses across borders. |
Emirates Group
DP World
Amazon Middle East
Procter & Gamble (P&G)
Unilever MENA
PwC, EY, Deloitte, KPMG (the "Big 4" consulting firms)
IBM Middle East
Majid Al Futtaim Group
Nestlé Middle East
Experience Level |
Average Salary (AED/month) |
Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|
|
Entry-level (0–2 years) |
AED 10,000 – 15,000 |
USD 2,700 – 4,000 |
|
Mid-level (3–5 years) |
AED 15,000 – 25,000 |
USD 4,000 – 7,000 |
|
Senior-level (6+ years) |
AED 25,000 – 40,000 |
USD 7,000 – 11,000 |
Golden Visa eligibility for highly skilled professionals (valid for 5–10 years)
Post-study work options (new visa rules allow you to stay after graduating and find work)
Tax-free salary (no income tax in UAE)
Exposure to international clients and projects regularly
