Heriot-Watt University Dubai :

• Popular Programs: Business, Engineering, Data Science, Construction
• Tuition: AED 58,000–85,000 per year (~USD 16,000–23,000)

Visa Requirements for Studying in Dubai

1. University Admission

• You must have an Offer Letter or Letter of Acceptance from a Dubai-based university or educational institution.

2. Student Visa Application

• You can apply for a student visa once you receive your acceptance from the university. In most cases, the university will sponsor your visa application.
• The student visa is typically issued for 1 year and can be renewed annually based on academic performance.

3. Documents Required for Student Visa

• Filled Visa Application Form (usually provided by the university)
• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.
• Passport-sized Photos (as per UAE specifications)
• University Enrollment Letter: Proof of admission from the institution.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or financial guarantees showing sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
• Tuition Fee Receipt: Proof of payment for the first semester’s tuition fees.
• Medical Fitness Test: A medical checkup is mandatory for long-term visa applicants. This test is conducted upon your arrival in the UAE and includes screenings for infectious diseases like HIV, TB, and Hepatitis.
• Health Insurance: You need to have medical insurance valid in the UAE for the duration of your stay.

4. Visa Fees

• Visa fees range between AED 2,000–3,000 (~USD 550–800) depending on the institution and the duration of the stay.
• Some universities may charge additional visa processing fees or security deposits.

5. Proof of Accommodation

• You must provide proof of where you will be staying during your studies. This can be in the form of university-provided accommodation or a rental contract if you are staying off-campus.

6. Proof of Financial Stability

• You may be required to show evidence that you have enough funds to cover tuition, living costs, and other expenses during your study period.
• This typically includes bank statements from the past 3-6 months or proof of a scholarship (if applicable).

7. Biometrics and Background Check

• Students may be required to submit fingerprints and undergo a criminal background check as part of the visa process.

8. Visa Processing Time

• The student visa process typically takes 2–4 weeks from the time all documents are submitted. Applying early is recommended.

9. Work While Studying

• International students are allowed to work part-time in Dubai if they obtain a work permit. The work permit is issued by the university, and you may be allowed to work up to 20 hours a week.

10. Residence Visa (after graduation)

• Upon graduation, students can apply for a 1-year residency visa to stay in Dubai and look for employment. If a student finds a job, the employer may then sponsor a work visa.