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United Arab Emirates

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At a glance

Living index rating
Expensive
Monthly rent
AED 2,000 – AED 4,500 for a shared room or university housing (Dubai higher)
Monthly food
AED 800 – AED 1,500
Other monthly expenses
AED 1,000 – AED 2,000 (transport, utilities, phone, personal)
Visa processing time
About 2 – 5 weeks (entry permit often 10 – 15 working days)
Family allowed for students
Limited

Visa requirements

  • Student residence visa, usually sponsored and processed by your university
  • Offer letter and payment of fees or a deposit
  • Passport valid for at least 6 months, photos and academic certificates
  • Medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics after arrival
  • UAE health insurance
  • The visa is usually valid for 1 year and renewed each year of the course
  • Part-time work only with a permit and university approval

Work permit after studies

  • No general open post-study work visa; most graduates move onto an employer-sponsored work visa once they get a job
  • Job-seeker visit visas of 60, 90 or 120 days are available, including for recent graduates of top-ranked universities
  • Top graduates can qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa

Citizenship route

  • No standard route to citizenship for foreign residents; citizenship is granted only in rare, exceptional cases
  • Long-term residence is possible through the 10-year Golden Visa (for top students, skilled professionals, investors) or renewable work visas

Family details

  • Students can sponsor their family if they meet financial and housing requirements, usually with income or funds proven to the immigration authority
  • In practice this is easier for mature or working students
  • Family members on a residence visa can get a work permit if they find an employer

Universities in the United Arab Emirates

Top-ranked

All other universities and colleges (86), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.