Dubai’s Higher Education Sector at a Glance
Dubai continues to solidify its position as a leading global education hub, with a significant influx of international students. According to the latest data from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Indian students form the largest group among international students in the emirate’s higher education sector. In the 2024–25 academic year, they accounted for 43 per cent of the total international student population. This is followed by students from Russia and Pakistan, each making up 6 per cent, while China and Kazakhstan contribute 4 per cent and 3 per cent respectively.
The overall proportion of international students in Dubai’s private higher education institutions stands at 35.2 per cent. This highlights the city’s growing appeal as a destination for higher education, drawing students from across the globe.
Expansion of Higher Education Institutions
The growth in student numbers has been remarkable. Dubai currently hosts 42,026 students enrolled across 41 private higher education institutions, including 37 international university campuses. The total enrolment has seen a sharp increase of 20.4 per cent in the 2024–25 academic year, compared to 12.3 per cent in the previous year. This upward trend reflects the expanding opportunities available to students seeking quality education in the region.
In addition to the rise in total student numbers, the intake of international students has also increased. Their representation rose from 25.3 per cent to 29.4 per cent, indicating that Dubai is becoming an even more attractive option for those looking to study abroad.
Popular Courses Among International Students
When it comes to course preferences, business studies remain the most popular field, with 54 per cent of international students opting for this specialisation. Information technology and engineering follow closely, each attracting 11 per cent of the student body. Media and design are also in demand, with 6 per cent of international students choosing these fields, while humanities account for 3 per cent.
In terms of academic levels, 53 per cent of international students are pursuing bachelor’s degrees, while 37 per cent are enrolled in master’s programmes. This suggests that Dubai’s higher education institutions are catering to a diverse range of academic aspirations.
Academic Trends Among Emirati Students
While international students dominate the higher education landscape, Emirati students are also showing strong interest in various academic disciplines. According to the latest data, 3,832 Emirati students are enrolled in higher education institutions across Dubai. Of these, 62 per cent are pursuing bachelor’s degrees, 28 per cent are in master’s programmes, and 8 per cent are working towards doctorates.
Business remains the most popular field among Emirati students, with 42 per cent enrolling in related courses. Engineering follows at 21 per cent, while information technology attracts 15 per cent. Law and humanities each account for 5 per cent of the student population.
Faculty Composition in Dubai’s Higher Education Institutions
The faculty members teaching in Dubai’s higher education institutions also reflect the diversity of the student body. A breakdown of the 2,123 faculty members shows that Indian nationals make up the largest group, at 29 per cent. UK nationals account for 13 per cent, while Pakistan contributes 6 per cent. The US and Lebanon each have 5 per cent of the faculty, highlighting the international nature of the teaching staff in the emirate.
This mix of nationalities among faculty members ensures a broad range of perspectives and expertise, enriching the learning experience for students from different backgrounds.
