Public Universities in UAE

Checkout the Public Universities in UAE....

Standyou Team
Standyou Team

Apr 16, 2025 05:47:19

List of Top 30 Public Universities in UAE for Indian Students
 

#

University Name

QS World Ranking (2025)

Avg. Tuition Fees (INR/year)

Intake Months

Popular Courses

1

Khalifa University (Abu Dhabi)

230

7–10 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Engineering, AI, Biomedical, Robotics

2

United Arab Emirates University (UAEU)

290

5–7 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Medicine, Business, IT, Education

3

University of Sharjah (UoS)

551-560

4–7 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Law, Medical, Business, Engineering

4

Zayed University (Dubai/Abu Dhabi)

701–750

4–6 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Media, International Affairs, Education

5

Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT)

Not Ranked QS

3–5 Lakhs

Sept

Engineering Tech, Business, Health Sciences

6

American University of Sharjah (AUS) (Semi-Government)

364

9–12 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Architecture, Business, Engg, Design

7

Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU)

Not Ranked QS

12–20 Lakhs

Sept

Medicine, Dentistry, Biomedical Science

8

Masdar Institute (merged with Khalifa U)

-

-

-

Renewable Energy, Sustainable Tech

9

Ajman University (Private but popular)

651–700

6–8 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Pharmacy, Dentistry, IT

10

Al Ain University

Not Ranked QS

3.5–6 Lakhs

Sept

Law, Pharmacy, Engineering

11

University of Dubai (Semi-Government)

Not Ranked QS

5–7 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Business, Finance, IT

12

Abu Dhabi University (ADU) (Semi-Gov)

580–590

7–9 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Aviation, Business, Engineering

13

University of Fujairah

Not Ranked

3–5 Lakhs

Sept

IT, Business, Law

14

Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU)

Not Ranked

8–12 Lakhs

Sept

Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing

15

Gulf Medical University (GMU)

Not Ranked

10–15 Lakhs

Sept

MBBS, Physiotherapy, Biotech

16

Emirates College of Technology (ECT)

Not Ranked

3–4 Lakhs

Sept

Media, IT, Business

17

Skyline University College (Sharjah)

Not Ranked

5–6 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Business, IT

18

American University in the Emirates (AUE)

Not Ranked

6–7 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Design, Security Studies, Business

19

British University in Dubai (BUiD)

Not Ranked

7–10 Lakhs

Sept

Engineering, Education, Project Mgmt

20

University of Wollongong in Dubai (branch campus)

340 (Parent Uni)

9–11 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

CS, Cybersecurity, Business

21

Middlesex University Dubai

Parent Uni: ~700

8–10 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Law, Psychology, Business

22

Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Parent: 256

8–11 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Engg, AI, Architecture

23

Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai

-

5–7 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Engg, Media, Biotech

24

BITS Pilani Dubai

-

7–9 Lakhs

Sept

Engg, CS, EEE, Mech

25

Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi

Parent: ~300

8–10 Lakhs

Sept

Intl Relations, Humanities, Law

26

Canadian University Dubai

-

8–10 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Business, Media, Engineering

27

Amity University Dubai

-

5–7 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

Business, Engg, Hospitality

28

Murdoch University Dubai

-

6–8 Lakhs

Sept, Jan

CS, Business, Journalism

29

SP Jain School of Global Management (Dubai Campus)

-

12–15 Lakhs

Sept

Business (Global BBA, MBA)

30

MODUL University Dubai

-

6–8 Lakhs

Sept

Intl Mgmt, Tourism, Digital Media

Universities in UAE


Public Universities in UAE for International Students


Top Public Universities in the UAE for International Students

1. Khalifa University – Abu Dhabi

  • QS World Ranking (2025): 230

  • Tuition Fees: Approx 7–10 lakhs/year

  • Intake: September and January

  • Popular Programs: Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering

2. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) – Al Ain

UAE's first and oldest university. Offers a wide range of programs with strong research orientation.

  • QS Ranking: 290

  • Fees: 5–7 lakhs/year

  • Intake: September and January

  • Programs: Medicine, Business, IT, Agriculture, Education

3. University of Sharjah (UoS) – Sharjah

A semi-public university founded by the ruler of Sharjah. Known for its medical, law, and engineering programs.

  • QS Ranking: 551–560

  • Fees: 4–7 lakhs/year

  • Intake: September and January

  • Programs: Dentistry, Law, Engineering, Islamic Studies, Mass Communication

4. Zayed University – Abu Dhabi & Dubai

Primarily a government-funded university, now open to international students.

  • QS Ranking: 701–750

  • Fees: 4–6 lakhs/year

  • Intake: September and January

  • Programs: International Affairs, Media Studies, IT, Psychology

5. Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) – Multiple Campuses

The largest federal higher education institution in the UAE. Offers applied learning and technical education.

  • QS Ranking: Not ranked globally

  • Fees: 3–5 lakhs/year

  • Intake: September

  • Programs: Business, Health Sciences, Engineering Technology, Computer Information Science

6. Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) – Dubai

A top choice for students pursuing medicine and health sciences.

  • QS Ranking: Not ranked

  • Fees: 12–20 lakhs/year

  • Intake: September

  • Programs: MBBS, Dental Surgery, Biomedical Sciences

7. Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE) – Abu Dhabi

Focused on teacher training and educational leadership.

  • QS Ranking: Not ranked

  • Fees: 3–5 lakhs/year

  • Intake: September

  • Programs: Bachelor in Education, Master in Education

8. Abu Dhabi School of Government / Civil Services

Though more vocational and not offering full degrees, it supports public-sector learning and is open to international collaborations.

9. Emirates College of Technology (ECT) – Abu Dhabi

Not a traditional public university but operates with government support and offers affordable education.

  • Fees: 3–4 lakhs/year

  • Intake: September

  • Programs: Business Administration, IT, Media


Key Highlights for Indian Students:

  • Medium of Instruction: English

  • Accreditation: Most programs are internationally accredited (ABET, AACSB, etc.)

  • Student Visa Support: Available for full-time programs

  • Job Opportunities: Post-graduation job search visa options are expanding

  • Indian Community: Very strong in UAE, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

  • Proximity: 3–4 hour flight from major Indian cities

Study in UAE


Eligibility to get admission to Government Universities in UAE


General Eligibility for Admission to Government Universities in UAE

For Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Programs

1. Academic Requirements:

  • Must have completed Grade 12 or equivalent (CBSE/ISC/State Boards)

  • A minimum GPA of 75–85% is usually required, depending on the program and university

  • For Engineering/Science/Medical programs, higher percentages (85–90%) in core subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Math/Biology are preferred

2. English Language Proficiency:

  • IELTS (Academic): Minimum score of 5.5 to 6.0

  • TOEFL iBT: 61–79 (depending on university)

  • Some universities may accept EmSAT English (local UAE test)

  • Medium of instruction in Indian school may sometimes be accepted, but not always

3. Entrance Exams (Program-specific):

  • Engineering & Medical Programs may require:

    • EmSAT scores (Math, Physics, Chemistry, Biology)

    • Some may accept SAT (especially for Khalifa University)

    • NEET qualification is required for Indian students applying for MBBS programs

  • Portfolio is required for Design or Architecture programs (at places like American University of Sharjah)

4. Passport and Visa Requirements:

  • Valid passport

  • Student visa sponsored by the university


For Postgraduate (Master’s) Programs

1. Academic Requirements:

  • Must have a recognized Bachelor’s degree (minimum GPA: 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or 60–75%)

  • From a recognized university (NAAC-accredited Indian universities usually qualify)

2. English Language Proficiency:

  • IELTS Academic: 6.0 or higher

  • TOEFL iBT: 79–90

  • Some programs may ask for EmSAT English (especially at public UAEU and HCT)

3. Additional Requirements:

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)

  • Recommendation Letters (2–3, academic or professional)

  • CV/Resume

  • Work experience may be required for MBA and some master’s programs (1–2 years)

  • GMAT/GRE is usually not mandatory, but recommended for competitive programs

4. Research Proposal:

  • Required for research-based Master's programs (e.g., at Khalifa University)

Business, Management & Economics in UAE


Fee Structure of Public Universities in UAE


1. Khalifa University – Abu Dhabi

  • Undergraduate Programs: 7–10 lakhs/year (approx. AED 30,000–45,000)

  • Postgraduate Programs (MS/PhD): 9–13 lakhs/year (AED 45,000+)

  • Scholarships: Available for high GPA and research programs; PhD students often get full funding


2. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) – Al Ain

  • Bachelor’s Degree: 5.5–7 lakhs/year (AED 25,000–35,000)

  • Master’s Degree: 7–9 lakhs/year (AED 30,000–45,000)

  • MBBS/Medicine Programs: Higher – around 12–16 lakhs/year

  • Scholarships: Partial and full tuition waivers available for international students


3. University of Sharjah (UoS) – Sharjah

  • Bachelor’s Programs: 4.5–6.5 lakhs/year (AED 20,000–30,000)

  • Postgraduate Programs: 6–9 lakhs/year (AED 30,000–40,000)

  • Medical/Pharmacy: 10–15 lakhs/year

  • Scholarships: Based on academic merit


4. Zayed University – Abu Dhabi & Dubai

  • Bachelor’s Programs: 4.5–6 lakhs/year (AED 20,000–25,000)

  • Graduate Programs: 6–8 lakhs/year (AED 25,000–35,000)

  • Note: Historically catered more to UAE nationals, but now open to international applicants in select programs


5. Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) – Across UAE

  • Bachelor’s Degrees: 3–5 lakhs/year (AED 15,000–22,000)

  • Offers more affordable, applied education

  • Postgraduate Diplomas/Certificates: 2.5–4 lakhs/year (AED 10,000–18,000)

  • Scholarships/discounts for top international applicants


6. Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) – Dubai

  • MBBS: 20–25 lakhs/year (AED 90,000–100,000+)

  • Dental & Biomedical Science: 12–18 lakhs/year

  • Scholarships: Limited, merit-based


7. Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE) – Abu Dhabi

  • Education-focused programs: 3.5–5 lakhs/year (AED 15,000–22,000)

  • Known for teacher training degrees


Special Notes for Indian Students

  • Fees are usually payable in AED, but converted above to INR for ease

  • Many public universities offer merit scholarships, research assistantships, or tuition waivers

  • You may also be eligible for 100% scholarships at some universities like Khalifa and UAEU (especially at postgraduate level)


Payment Schedules

  • Most universities allow semester-wise or yearly payments

  • You’ll often pay an application fee (AED 300–500) and visa fees (AED 2,000–3,000/year)

MBA in UAE


Admission Process of Public Universities of UAE


Step 1: Choose Your Program & University

Start by deciding:

  • What course you want (Engineering, Medicine, Business, etc.)

  • Which university offers it (e.g., Khalifa for Engineering, UAEU for Medicine, UoS for Law)

Tip: Consider tuition, scholarships, intake dates, and course curriculum.


Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements

Each university has slightly different criteria, but most require:

  • 12th-grade scores (for UG) or Bachelor’s GPA (for PG)

  • English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or EmSAT scores)

  • EmSAT or SAT/NEET scores (program-specific)

  • For PG: SOP, LORs, and sometimes work experience

Make sure your documents are translated into English or Arabic if needed.


Step 3: Gather Required Documents

You’ll typically need:

  • Passport copy (valid)

  • Academic transcripts (10th, 12th for UG; Bachelor's for PG)

  • School leaving certificate or transfer certificate

  • English proficiency test score (IELTS/TOEFL)

  • Passport-size photographs

  • Statement of Purpose (for PG)

  • Letters of Recommendation (for PG)

  • Entrance exam scores (if required)

  • Equivalency certificate (sometimes required for Indian board students)


Step 4: Submit Online Application

  • Go to the university’s admissions portal and create an account.

  • Fill in personal, academic, and program details.

  • Upload all necessary documents.

  • Pay the application fee (usually AED 300–500).


Step 5: Attend Entrance Test / Interview (if applicable)

  • Some programs (like Medicine or Engineering) may require you to:

    • Take an EmSAT, SAT, or university-specific test

    • Attend an interview (often online via Zoom or MS Teams)


Step 6: Receive Admission Offer

  • If selected, you’ll receive a Provisional Offer Letter or Final Acceptance Letter

  • It may be conditional upon meeting language score or final exam results


Step 7: Accept the Offer & Pay Initial Fees

  • Confirm your admission by:

    • Paying the seat reservation or initial tuition fee (varies by university)

    • Submitting visa processing documents


Step 8: Student Visa & Accommodation

  • The university will typically sponsor your UAE student visa

  • Submit additional documents:

    • Medical certificate

    • Passport photos

    • Emirates ID application form (processed on arrival)

  • Choose university or private accommodation if needed


Step 9: Travel & Enrollment

  • Receive your visa and travel to the UAE before the semester begins

  • Attend orientation and complete in-person registration

  • Get your Emirates ID and medical screening done within a few weeks of arrival

UAE Scholarships for Indian Students


Scholarship in Public Universities of UAE


1. Khalifa University (Abu Dhabi)

Scholarship Type:

  • Full Scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students

  • Covers 100% tuition fees, books, monthly stipend, and accommodation

  • Additional funding for PhD students (housing + research grants)

Eligibility:

  • Excellent academic records (90%+ for UG; 3.5+ GPA for PG)

  • Strong background in STEM fields

  • Research potential (especially for MS/PhD applicants)


2. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU)

Scholarship Types:

  • Full Tuition Scholarship (International Students)

  • Partial Scholarships for students with GPA 3.0+

  • Graduate Assistantships for Master’s/PhD students (includes stipend, housing, tuition)

Covers:

  • Tuition fees (up to 100%)

  • Monthly allowance (for postgraduates)

  • Campus housing (sometimes included)

Eligibility:

  • High school average of 90% or above (UG)

  • For graduate: GPA 3.3+ and strong English proficiency


3. University of Sharjah (UoS)

Scholarship Types:

  • Merit-Based Scholarships (25–50%)

  • Full scholarships for postgraduate research students

  • Some discounts for high school toppers and GCC students

Eligibility:

  • Strong academic performance

  • Active participation in research or community service (for PG)


4. Zayed University

Scholarship Types:

  • Limited merit-based tuition discounts for international students

  • Graduate Research Scholarships for specific programs

Eligibility:

  • GPA 3.5+ (UG and PG)

  • High IELTS/TOEFL scores


5. Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT)

Scholarships & Support:

  • While direct scholarships are limited, tuition is already subsidized for all students

  • Occasional funding for special programs or female empowerment initiatives


6. Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU)

Scholarship Types:

  • Merit Scholarships covering up to 50% of tuition fees

  • Need-based aid is considered case-by-case

  • Limited full-ride scholarships for outstanding MBBS candidates

Eligibility:

  • High NEET score (for Indian applicants)

  • Academic excellence (90%+ in PCB subjects)


General Scholarship Tips for UAE Public Universities:

  • Apply early—scholarships are often awarded on a rolling basis

  • Maintain a high GPA throughout your studies to retain the scholarship

  • Prepare a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

  • Highlight community service, research work, or leadership skills


Documents Usually Required:

  • Academic transcripts

  • English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)

  • Passport copy

  • Recommendation letters (for PG)

  • Personal statement / SOP

  • Sometimes financial documents (for need-based aid)


Intake of Public Universities in UAE


1. Fall Intake (Main Intake)

  • Starts: Late August or Early September

  • Application Window: January to May/June

  • Programs Offered: All undergraduate and postgraduate programs

  • Best time to apply for scholarships and visa processing

Highly recommended for Indian students due to alignment with CBSE/ISC academic calendar.


2. Spring Intake (Secondary Intake)

  • Starts: January or February

  • Application Window: August to November

  • Programs Offered: Limited—mostly business, IT, and engineering-related courses

  • Not all programs are available during this intake

Good option if you missed the Fall deadline or are applying for select master’s programs.


3. Summer Intake (Rare / Limited)

  • Starts: May–June

  • Availability: Very few universities or courses

  • Mostly for short-term diplomas, bridge courses, or foundation programs


University-wise Intake Info (General)

  • Khalifa University – Fall and limited Spring

  • UAE University (UAEU) – Fall and Spring (all programs not available in Spring)

  • University of Sharjah – Fall and Spring

  • Zayed University – Fall (main); limited Spring intake

  • Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) – Mostly Fall; some programs open in Spring

  • MBRU (Medical University) – Only Fall intake for MBBS and dentistry


Important Intake Tips for Indian Students:

  • Apply at least 6–8 months before the semester starts

  • Scholarship deadlines often close before regular admission deadlines

  • Ensure you have your IELTS/TOEFL scores and academic transcripts ready early

  • Visa processing may take 2–4 weeks, so plan accordingly


QS World Ranking of Public Universities in UAE


1. Khalifa University – Abu Dhabi

  • QS World Ranking (2025): #230

  • The highest-ranked public university in the UAE

  • Strong focus on STEM, engineering, AI, and biomedical sciences


2. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) – Al Ain

  • QS Ranking (2025): #290

  • UAE’s oldest and most research-driven university

  • Strong in medicine, agriculture, education, and business


3. University of Sharjah (UoS) – Sharjah

  • QS Ranking (2025): #551–560

  • Offers a wide range of programs in law, health sciences, engineering, and Islamic studies

  • Semi-public, founded by the ruler of Sharjah


4. Zayed University – Dubai & Abu Dhabi

  • QS Ranking (2025): #701–750

  • Government-funded, offers modern programs in media, psychology, international affairs


5. Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) – Across UAE

  • QS Ranking: Not ranked in the top 1000 globally (2025)

  • However, it's one of the largest public institutions in UAE, focused on technical and applied education

  • Offers programs in business, engineering technology, and health sciences


6. Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) – Dubai

  • QS Ranking: Not individually ranked yet (newer institution)

  • Highly reputed for MBBS, dentistry, and biomedical sciences

  • Gaining international recognition quickly