Top 8 Affordable Universities in UAE for International Students

So, you’re dreaming of studying in the UAE but worried about the cost? Don’t hit pause on those ambitions just yet! The United Arab Emirates has emerged as a prime destination for international students, offering top-notch education, cultural diversity, and world-class infrastructure. Even better? It’s home to some of the most affordable universities for students from around the world. Whether you’re looking for cutting-edge research facilities, industry-aligned courses, or generous scholarships, these universities in UAE have you covered.

From American University of Sharjah (AUS) with its globally recognized programs to the British University in Dubai (BUiD), offering British-style education, or the prestigious Khalifa University known for its innovation in science and technology—you have a wealth of options. Universities like Abu Dhabi University (ADU) and Manipal Academy Dubai combine affordability with quality, while Al Ghurair University stands out as one of the cheapest universities in the UAE, making quality education accessible to all.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the highlights—rankings, tuition fees, popular courses, and scholarships—of the top 8 affordable universities in the UAE for international students. Let’s dive in and find your perfect match!

List of Top 8 Affordable Universities in UAE

American University of Sharjah (AUS) 

Founded in 1997, the American University of Sharjah is one of the most prestigious universities in the UAE. Known for its American-style liberal arts education, AUS attracts international students from over 90 countries. It offers cutting-edge facilities, world-class faculty, and a multicultural campus that fosters innovation and leadership. Whether you’re interested in Business, Engineering, or Architecture, AUS provides programs designed to meet global industry standards. Below is a table detailing key highlights about AUS: 

Abu Dhabi University (ADU) 

Established in 2003, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) stands out for its career-focused programs and state-of-the-art infrastructure. It is one of the most affordable universities in UAE for international students, making quality education accessible. ADU emphasizes practical learning, ensuring graduates are job-ready for both regional and international markets. Here’s a quick overview of ADU’s key details: 

Amity University Dubai 

Part of the globally recognized Amity Education Group, Amity University Dubai combines affordability with quality education. Since its inception in 2011, the university has focused on industry-aligned programs and hands-on training. It’s a perfect option for students seeking a budget-friendly university in UAE while still receiving a globally competitive education. Here’s a snapshot of the key highlights for Amity University Dubai: 

British University in Dubai (BUiD) 

Established in 2003, the British University in Dubai (BUiD) is a research-based institution offering a British-style education in the heart of the UAE. BUiD collaborates with leading UK universities to provide high-quality postgraduate and undergraduate programs, emphasizing research and innovation. Here’s an overview of BUiD: 

Manipal Academy of Higher Education – Dubai Campus (MAHE Dubai) 

Founded in 2000, Manipal Academy of Higher Education – Dubai Campus (MAHE Dubai) is a branch of the renowned Manipal Academy of Higher Education in India. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, focusing on holistic education and industry readiness. Here’s a snapshot of MAHE Dubai: 

University of Birmingham Dubai 

The University of Birmingham Dubai is an extension of the prestigious University of Birmingham in the UK. Established to deliver the same high standards of education, it offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs tailored to the regional context. Here’s an overview of the University of Birmingham Dubai: 

Khalifa University 

Khalifa University, located in Abu Dhabi, is one of the top universities in the UAE for science, engineering, and technology. Established to drive innovation and research, the university consistently ranks as the leading educational institution in the country. With cutting-edge labs, industry partnerships, and a global faculty, it offers a perfect environment for students aspiring for a world-class education. Here’s a detailed breakdown of Khalifa University: 

Al Ghurair University (AGU) 

Established in 1999, Al Ghurair University in Dubai is recognized as one of the cheapest universities in the UAE, offering affordable yet high-quality education. It focuses on equipping students with practical skills and knowledge aligned with international academic standards. AGU’s programs cater to business, engineering, architecture, and law students, making it a strong choice for those seeking an affordable university in UAE. Here’s a quick overview of Al Ghurair University: 

Conclusion 

Choosing where to study is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, and the UAE has proven to be a destination that perfectly balances affordability, quality, and cultural enrichment. Whether you envision yourself at a tech-driven campus like Khalifa University, enjoying the vibrant city life while studying at Amity University Dubai, or excelling in research at British University in Dubai, there’s a university that’s just right for you. 

These universities in UAE for international students not only offer globally competitive education but also ensure that financial constraints don’t stand in the way of your dreams. With scholarships, reasonable tuition fees, and a variety of programs in fields like Business, Engineering, IT, and Law, you’ll graduate ready to take on the world—without burning a hole in your pocket. 

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your future, explore the UAE’s vibrant campuses, and make your educational dreams a reality. The journey begins now, and trust me—it’s going to be one incredible ride!