While postgraduate study at public universities in the UAE is free to UAE citizens, all international students have to pay tuition fees.
Courses are assessed by semester credit hours and universities will normally charge tuition fees per credit. This means that the exact cost of a Masters in the UAE depends on the required credits for on your course.
Private universities in the UAE set their own tuition rates.
The cost of a Masters degree in the UAE
Prices for a Masters degree are generally fairly expensive- courses cost an average of AED 48,000- 72,000 (USD $13,070-35,400), but can be up to as much as AED 130,000 (USD $35,390) for specialised programmes. There’s also an application fee of about AED 200 (USD $55) for most courses.
Funding for postgraduate study in the UAE
The relatively high cost of Masters study in the UAE can be offset by funding.
The United Arab Emirates doesn't currently offer a scholarship scheme for international postgraduates. However, most universities in the UAE offer tuition grants and scholarships to international Masters students.
The best way to find funding for postgraduate study is to search for a suitable Masters in the UAE and then enquire about support from your university.
Student living costs in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates is famous for glamour, designer shopping and luxury, but that doesn't mean affordable options aren't available for postgraduates. The UAE is keen to grow its university sector and that means providing appropriate facilities and accommodation for students.
Student accommodation
Most UAE universities will have optional student housing either on campus or nearby. Even the largest cities in the UAE – Abu Dhabi and Dubai – are quite small in comparison to those in Europe and America, so it is unlikely that you will live far from your university.
If you live in university student housing, you can expect to share a dormitory style room with another student, although single rooms may also be available. Prices are normally charged per semester and vary between universities. A housing deposit will also be required and will be refunded upon graduation or withdrawal.
To give you an idea of prices, the United Arab Emirates University charges a fee of AED 5,600 (USD $1,525) per semester.
Living costs
Student living costs vary across the UAE, but the country's cities are often expensive places to live. The cost of living in Dubai and Abu Dhabi is on the rise.
However, while rent, retail shopping and dining can be expensive, basic student food and groceries are still affordable.