Study in Dubai: Is It Better than USA or UK?

Indian students are increasingly heading abroad to pursue their higher education. While for years, Indian students have been aiming to head to the USA and the UK, which are the major attractions for international students, Dubai has emerged as a promising student destination in recent years. Read this article to distinguish between Dubai, the UK, and the USA as the promising student destinations.

In this article, we have provided a comprehensive comparison between studying in the USA, the UK and Dubai as the prominent study abroad destinations for Indian students. We have taken into consideration several factors like the quality of education, the financial implications of studying and living abroad, the complexities of visa and immigration policies, the landscape of job markets and career prospects, the potential language barriers, the recognition of degrees and the lived experiences of Indian students in these countries. 

Based on the comparative study between the USA, the UK and Dubai, it can be inferred that the USA boasts the highest number of top-ranking universities in the world. The country also has the highest number of Indian students enrolled. However, the USA also poses a long-term earning potential, higher costs to live and study and a competitive job market. The UK, on the other hand, offers a strong academic tradition with more affordable tuition and a relatively straightforward post-study work visa, though the salaries may be lower than in the USA. Dubai (UAE) emerges as a rapidly developing educational hub with competitive tuition fees, a mid-range of living costs, high safety and increasing post-study work opportunities, making it an attractive option for Indian students, particularly for those who seek a culturally familiar environment closer to their homes. 

Now let us look at different educational aspects of the USA, the UK and Dubai to draw a conclusion upon “Is studying in Dubai better than studying in the USA or the UK?”

Read: Why are Indian students choosing to study in Dubai in 2025?

Comparison between Dubai, the UK and the USA as Study Abroad Destinations

When it comes to Indian students going to study abroad, several factors like educational quality, financial implications, immigration policies, career prospects, cultural integration, language considerations, degree recognition, and the experiences of fellow Indian students affect their decision. Check out the coming sections to learn about the differences between Dubai, the UK and the USA as the three most prominent destinations to aid your decision-making.

1. Quality of Education | Top-Ranking Universities

USA: When it comes to the availability of top-ranking universities, the USA has the maximum number of top-ranking universities than any other nation. According to the QS World Rankings 2025, the USA boasts an impressive 16 institutions within the top 50. For students pursuing fields like engineering and computer science, US universities such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, the University of California, Berkeley (UCB), and Carnegie Mellon University consistently feature among the world's best. Similarly, in the realm of business education, institutions like Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, and Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management hold prestigious positions and are highly sought after by aspiring business leaders. The consistently high rankings across various disciplines highlight the USA's established reputation for providing world-class education and fostering groundbreaking research.  

UK: The United Kingdom also boasts a strong contingent of world-leading universities, with 8 colleges securing a place within the top 50 of the QS World Rankings 2025. UK universities such as the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and University College London (UCL) consistently rank among the top 10 globally. 

Dubai: Dubai has established branch campuses of top-ranking international universities on its own land. This helps Indian students gain globally recognised degrees at a location closer to their home country. For engineering programs, universities like Khalifa University, the University of Sharjah, the American University in Dubai, and Heriot-Watt University Dubai are prominent choices. In business education, institutions such as the American University in Dubai, the University of Dubai, and branch campuses like the London Business School Dubai offer a range of programs. 

For computer science, universities like Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, Khalifa University, and the University of Sharjah are gaining recognition. The presence of reputable international branches ensures a quality educational experience, and the focus on industry-relevant programs makes Dubai an increasingly attractive study destination.

2. Curriculum Structure and Teaching Methodologies

USA: The academic programs in the USA are generally longer than most other countries, like the UK and Canada. The American higher education curriculum generally includes four years for undergraduate degrees and two years for master's programs. 

The curriculum often follows a flexible and broad structure, with students spending the initial years on general studies before specialising in their chosen major. The education system in the USA includes teaching methodologies that are heavily reliant on coursework, assignments, research projects, and active class participation. Academic freedom is a key feature, with smaller class sizes often fostering close relationships between students and faculty, encouraging active contribution to discussions.

UK: In contrast, the UK education system typically features shorter program durations, with undergraduate degrees generally completed in three years and master's programs in one year. The curriculum is often more specialised, with students concentrating on their major from the beginning of their undergraduate studies. 

Teaching methods in British universities often focus on independent learning, research, and the development of analytical and critical thinking skills. The shorter duration of courses can lead to a more intensive learning experience. UK universities are also known for their strong emphasis on research, with access to top-notch resources and opportunities for students to participate in research projects and business simulations.

Dubai: The educational approach in Dubai, particularly within the international branch campuses, often mirrors the curriculum structure and teaching methodologies of the parent institutions, which can be from the USA, UK, Australia, or other countries. However, there is a strong emphasis on providing industry-focused courses and practical learning opportunities to align with the demands of the rapidly growing local and global job markets.

Curricula in fields like engineering and computer science in Dubai universities often feature a blend of theoretical foundations and practical modules, while business administration programs emphasise core business principles and offer various specialisations. Here is a summary:

3. Costs of Studying and Living

USA: The cost of studying in the USA is generally higher than in the UK. Undergraduate programs can range from $20,000 to $50,000 USD per year, while postgraduate programs can cost between $20,000 and $60,000 USD annually. Living costs in the USA, particularly in major urban centres, are generally higher than in the UK and Dubai. Monthly living expenses (without rent) can be around INR 98.2K (USD 1.17K), with a 1-bedroom apartment rent averaging INR 1.5 L (USD 1.8K). In expensive cities like New York City, the monthly budget for an international student can range from $2,000 to $3,500 or higher.

UK: The cost of education in the UK is a little less expensive than in the USA. Undergraduate programs range from £10,000 to £30,000 GBP per year, and postgraduate programs can cost between £10,000 and £35,000 annually. The monthly cost of living in London, UK, comes to around £1,200-£1,800 (or higher, depending upon the lifestyle), while outside London, it can be lower at £900-£1,300.

Dubai: The annual tuition fee in Dubai can range from AED 30,000 to AED 120,000. The average cost of pursuing engineering courses in Dubai comes to AED 45,000-65,000, for business AED 40,000-60,000, and for computer science AED 42,000-60,000. This makes Dubai more affordable than most universities in the USA and the UK.

Additionally, the monthly living costs (without rent) are around INR 86.4K (similar to the UK). Estimates for total monthly living costs (including rent) range from AED 4,500 to AED 8,500.

4. Financial Aid and Scholarships

Check out the study abroad scholarships available to study in the USA, the UK and Dubai below. 

USA: The USA offers a significant number of scholarships for international students, particularly merit-based ones, with over 1.7 million scholarships awarded annually. Some of the most sought-after scholarships to study in the USA are:

• KC Mahindra Scholarships for PG Studies (applicable for UK and Dubai as well)
• Narotam Sekhsaria’s Scholarships

• Northwestern Financial Aid Awards for International Students

• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
• Central Sector Scheme of National Overseas Scholarship for SC candidates

UK: The UK provides prestigious scholarships, though fewer in number compared to the USA, with 210 scholarships offered by 71 universities in 2024-25. Here are some of the most popular scholarships to study in the UK:

• KC Mahindra Scholarships for PG studies
• Young Women in Public Affairs Award
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
• UCL Global Master's Scholarship

Dubai: Dubai offers various scholarships from the government, universities, and private organisations, including both merit-based and need-based scholarships. Some of these are:

• BITS Pilani UAE School Topper Scholarship
• Master Research Teaching Scholarship (MRTS) by Khalifa University
• Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence 100% Scholarship
• HH Sheikh Hamdan Scholarships

5. Obtaining a Student Visa for Indian Students

USA: To obtain a US student visa (F-1 visa), an Indian student must be accepted into a SEVP-approved institution, which will then issue the I-20 Form. Following this, the student needs to pay the SEVIS fee ($350 USD as of 2024) and complete the online DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application form. A crucial step is scheduling and attending a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country. The processing time for a US student visa can take anywhere from 8 to 13 weeks.

UK: Indian students need to apply for a student visa to study for more than 6 months in the UK. The application process begins after receiving an unconditional offer from a UK-licensed institution, which will then issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number. Applicants need to provide evidence of sufficient financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses, demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like IELTS or PTE (unless exempt), possess a valid passport, and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). 

The visa application is primarily completed online via the Gov.UK website, and the standard UK student visa fee when applying from outside the UK is £490. The processing time for a UK student visa typically takes around 3 weeks, although priority services are available for an additional fee.

Dubai: The process of obtaining a UAE student visa typically involves obtaining an offer letter from a recognised university, providing proof of sufficient funds, undergoing a medical fitness test, and having a visa sponsor, which can be the university itself or a relative residing in the UAE. The processing time for a student visa in Dubai usually ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, and the cost can vary between AED 3,000 to AED 7,000 depending on the university and other factors.

Here is the summary of the student visa, post-study work visa and part-time work (during study) conditions in the USA, UK and Dubai:

The USA boasts the highest number of globally top-ranked universities, offering a wide array of programs and research opportunities. The UK provides a shorter, more specialised educational path with a strong emphasis on research and the development of analytical skills. Dubai offers access to internationally accredited programs, often through branch campuses, with a strong focus on industry relevance and practical learning.

Studying in Dubai Comes with these Advantages - 

The choice of destination should align with the individual student's preferred learning style, desired program duration, and specific academic and career aspirations. Students seeking flexibility and a broad academic foundation might favour the USA, those wanting intensive specialisation in a shorter time might prefer the UK, and those looking for industry-focused education in a multicultural hub closer to home could find Dubai appealing.

This was all about the benefits of studying in Dubai over studying in the UK and USA. For more details, get in touch with Shiksha's Counselling Services for free.