Indian students now account for 42% of Dubai's international intake: Tech and business top their choices
Indian students now account for 42% of Dubai's international intake.
In a shift that's redefining regional higher education dynamics, Indian students now make up a remarkable 42% of the international student population in Dubai's higher education institutions, according to the latest 2024–25 data from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).
Dubai is rapidly becoming a preferred alternative to traditional study-abroad destinations like the US, UK, and Australia.
What's more striking? The majority of these students are gravitating toward business, information technology, and engineering—programmes that now dominate Dubai's academic landscape.
Why Indian students are choosing Dubai
The appeal of Dubai to Indian students goes beyond proximity. For many, the city offers a blend of global exposure, cultural familiarity, and pragmatic advantages—including English-medium instruction, industry-aligned curricula, and thriving job markets across business and tech sectors.
Additionally, five Indian universities, including BITS Pilani, Manipal Academy, and Amity University, operate branch campuses in Dubai. These institutions offer Indian students a chance to earn globally recognized degrees in a culturally familiar and cost-effective environment.
Business and tech degrees in demand
According to the KHDA report, 54% of total international enrolments in Dubai's higher education sector are in business-related programmes, followed by 11% in information technology and 11% in engineering.
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These fields mirror the academic interests of most Indian students, who are increasingly pursuing future-ready degrees.
This shift isn't arbitrary. With Dubai's growing fintech sector, rapid digital transformation, and close ties to global business hubs, students see real opportunities to turn their degrees into careers—without relocating too far from home.
A growing Indian academic footprint
Indian influence is also evident among faculty.
The KHDA notes that 29% of all faculty members in Dubai's licensed institutions are of Indian origin—the highest representation among all nationalities. This not only boosts familiarity for Indian students but also reinforces academic trust and quality for those transitioning from Indian schooling systems.
Dubai vs. traditional western destinations
While countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia continue to attract large numbers of Indian students, Dubai is carving a unique space by offering:
Faster visa processing
Lower living costs compared to Western cities
Work opportunities during and after study
High safety, connectivity, and quality of life
The result is a city that's not just a stopover but a serious study destination for Indian students aiming to excel in high-demand fields.
Dubai's growing Indian student base signals more than a trend—it's a structural shift in regional higher education preference. With rising enrolments, curriculum relevance, and industry alignment, Dubai is positioning itself not just as a global city, but as a global campus.
As more Indian students look for value, opportunity, and connectivity in their international education journey, Dubai appears ready—and well-equipped—to lead the way.
Is your child ready for the careers of tomorrow? Enroll now and take advantage of our early bird offer! Spaces are limited.
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