There are 52 higher education institutions in Dubai offering a wide range of programmes including vocational diplomas and associate, bachelor, master and doctoral degrees. Many universities in Dubai are branch campuses of international universities. This has created a rich and varied learning environment. The Emirate currently has more than 43,000 college students from over 60 different countries.

Higher education institutions in Dubai are either federal institutions, branch campuses of international universities or private universities located inside or outside Free Zones. Federal institutions mainly cater to Emirati students seeking tertiary qualifications. Private universities are accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, while international branch campuses in Free Zones, if not accredited federally, have their quality assured by KHDA.

KHDA’s role in higher education is to provide academic authorisation and support quality assurance for all Free Zone universities in Dubai. Students who graduate from these higher education institutions can have their degrees certified by KHDA for employment and other purposes in Dubai.

On the accompanying pages you will find guidance on factors to consider when choosing a university or college in Dubai, as well as further information about the wide range of universities, colleges and programmes available.