Dubai is rapidly emerging as a preferred international study destination for Indian students. According to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Indians now represent 42% of the international student population in Dubai’s private higher education institutions for the academic year 2024-25.
This marks a significant shift in mindset amongst Indian families, who increasingly view Dubai as a serious alternative to traditional destinations such as the US, UK, and Australia.
The emirate currently has 42,026 students enroled across 41 private higher education institutions, 37 of which are international university campuses. The overall student enrolment saw a sharp growth of 20.4% in 2024-25 — an increase from the 12.3% growth recorded the previous year.
INDIANS LEAD DUBAI’S GROWING INTERNATIONAL STUDENT BASE
The study also reveals that the number of international students in Dubai has steadily increased. In just one academic year, their share rose from 25.3% to 29.4%. Indians are at the forefront of this trend, driving the city’s transformation into a higher education hub.
Their academic interests closely align with Dubai’s economic sectors. Among international students, 54% are enrolled in business programmes, while 11% each study information technology and engineering. Other popular fields include media and design (6%) and humanities (3%).
The majority of international students in Dubai pursue bachelor’s degrees (53%), followed closely by master’s degrees (37%). These figures reflect growing confidence in the academic value and career outcomes of Dubai-based education.
The connection between Indian students and Dubai extends beyond enrolment. Nearly 29% of the faculty in Dubai’s licensed higher education institutions are of Indian origin, strengthening familiarity, cultural alignment, and trust.
NEW IMMIGRATION PATHWAYS ADD TO APPEAL
While Dubai does not offer traditional post-study work visas, the UAE government has introduced long-term residency options, including jobseeker visas, freelancer permits, and the highly sought-after Golden Visa.
In a recent development, the UAE launched a new nomination-based Golden Visa scheme, allowing Indian and Bangladeshi nationals to obtain long-term residency without needing to invest in property or hold a trade licence.
This pilot programme opens up opportunities for professionals across sectors — scientists, educators, digital creators, and maritime specialists.
The new visa requires only a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately rs 23.3 lakh or USD 27,000), significantly lower than the earlier AED 2 million investment requirement.
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