Cost of Studying MBA in Dubai: Fees, Living Costs & Scholarships

An MBA in Dubai in 2026 typically costs between about AED 60,000 and AED 180,000 for tuition. The cost of living in Dubai is also very much cheaper compared to other study abroad destinations for MBA.

Studying for an MBA in Dubai in 2026 can be exciting but it also needs good financial planning. The fees of MBA in Dubai for Indian students depend on the university, type of program and living expenses. On average, tuition fees for an MBA in Dubai range from about AED 40,000 to AED 180,000 per year (roughly INR 9.8 lakh to INR 44 lakh) for most full-time MBA programs. Premium or executive MBAs at top schools can cost much more.

Some of the top MBA universities in Dubai include Hult International Business School (Dubai), University of Dubai, University of Wollongong in Dubai, American University in Dubai, SP Jain School of Global Management, and Middlesex University Dubai.

At Hult, fees are often higher because it is a global program, while universities like the University of Dubai and UOWD offer relatively moderate MBA fees. In addition to tuition, students must budget for living costs such as accommodation, food and transport, which can add significantly to the total cost of studying in Dubai.

Breakdown of MBA Tuition Fees in Dubai 2026

Here’s a simple table showing estimated MBA tuition fees per year (in AED) at some of the well-known universities in Dubai. These figures are based on tuition information from official university sources and reputable education fee aggregators for 2025–26 fee data (latest available), and are generally expected to be similar for 2026:

Notes:

• Fees vary by program type (full-time, executive) and specialization, and are indicative averages.

• Living expenses, accommodation, insurance, and other fees are not included in the tuition figures above.

• Exact updated fees for 2026 should be confirmed with the respective university admissions office.

Essential Pre-Arrival and Administrative Costs for MBA in Dubai

Below is a clear breakdown of the pre-arrival and administrative costs for an MBA in Dubai. These are fixed or near-fixed expenses and should be added to the total cost of studying MBA in Dubai in 2026.

Pre-Arrival & Setup Costs

• Student Visa Fees

  • AED 3,000 – 7,000

  • Paid to the university or visa sponsor

  • Covers entry permit and visa processing

• Medical Test & Emirates ID

  • AED 700 – 1,200

  • Mandatory for all international students

• Health Insurance

  • AED 800 – 2,000 per year

  • Some universities include this in fees, others do not

• Document Attestation

  • INR 10,000 – 20,000

  • Degree certificates and transcripts

  • Attestation from Indian authorities and UAE Embassy

• Flight Tickets (India to Dubai)

  • INR 20,000 – 40,000

  • Depends on season and booking time

• Initial Accommodation Deposit

  • Usually 1 month’s rent

  • Required for hostel or private housing

Why These Costs Matter

• These expenses are mandatory

• Must be paid before or immediately after arrival

• Not included in MBA tuition fees in Dubai

Including these costs gives a more accurate estimate of the total MBA cost in Dubai for 2026 and helps with better financial planning.

Other common costs include flight tickets to Dubai, usually INR 20,000 to INR 40,000, and initial accommodation deposits. Planning these costs early gives a clear idea of the total MBA expenses in Dubai in 2026 and helps avoid surprises later.

Top Universities' Fees in Dubai for MBA

Studying MBA in UAE will cost around INR 10 Lakh – INR 40 Lakh for the first year. The first year tution fees in Dubai for MBA will be around INR 6 Lakhs per year on average. But it will depends on the ubiversities and specialisation one is opting for. 

Study MBA in Dubai: First Year Tuition Fee

Monthly Living Expenses in Dubai for International Students

Below is a simple table of monthly living expenses in Dubai based on Numbeo cost-of-living data and student budgeting estimates.

Estimated Monthly Living Costs (Dubai)

Source: (Numbeo Cost of Living Database)

A single person needs about 4,000 AED per month excluding rent in Dubai. Rent is the biggest expense and can increase total monthly costs significantly.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for MBA Students in Dubai

Studying MBA in Dubai can be costly, but many scholarships and financial aid options for MBA students in Dubai help reduce the total expense. Universities, government bodies, and private organizations offer support based on merit, need, or profile strength.

Most MBA scholarships in Dubai cover partial tuition fees. Some high-performing students can get up to 50%–100% tuition fee waivers. Early application plays a big role in getting better financial aid.

Types of MBA Scholarships in Dubai

Merit-Based Scholarships
These are given to students with strong academics, good GMAT scores, or solid work experience. Top universities offer this to attract high-quality MBA candidates.

Need-Based Financial Aid
Students who can show financial difficulty may get special fee reductions or payment support.

University-Specific Scholarships
Many universities in Dubai have their own internal MBA scholarship programs. These are limited and offered on a first-come basis.

Corporate and Employer Sponsorships
Some working professionals get partial or full MBA funding from their employer if the course helps career growth.

Common MBA Scholarship Coverage

MBA Jobs & Salaries for Dubai