What you need to know before attending an International University in Dubai (UAE)

 

I have been asked several times about my schooling experience in Dubai (UAE), and I feel this

is the perfect time to share it here.

I studied business psychology (MSc) in Heriot Watt University Dubai Campus, a British University in 2016 and graduated in 2018. Therefore I don’t know so much about what’s like schooling in other Emirates. I feel excited about this post because I’m getting nostalgia.

This post is solely based on my experience, not anyone else’s, just putting it out there.

• The accommodation was quite expensive during my masters year, 2016/2018 but due to the pandemic, there’s a decrease in rental properties' prices. Additionally, you may decide to move in with a course mate to save cost. Although I lived alone as a student, I had some friends who lived together, and of course, it has its pros and cons. You can search for accommodations on Dubizzle.com.
• Dubai is a very social city, but I’d advise you to stay focused on your goal, British schools are no joke (well that’s if you want to attend a British University).
• When I was a student, I wasn’t allowed to work while schooling, but now it is possible to do so once you get your No Objection Certificate (NOC). See more information HERE.
• Being a multicultural city, I was able to learn a few words in Arabic and Swahili. 
• Various forms of transportation that aren't as expensive as the Dubai taxis to save cost exist. These include the metro, bus and abra rides. To purchase a metro/NOL card and top up the same, visit any of the metro stations.
• Some university lecturers are kind enough to review what was taught in class if you miss a lecture for genuine reasons. Therefore, explain any issues that may affect your education to the appropriate department in your school.
• Once you complete your education in Dubai and receive your degree certificate, it’s advisable to get it attested by The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). More information can be found HERE.
• Some international universities allow graduates to choose the country they wish to attend their graduation ceremony. For instance, Heriot watt has its main campus in Scotland, a campus in Dubai (UAE) and another in Malaysia. So you can choose to attend your graduation ceremony in any of these countries. Remember to confirm these possibilities with school authorities before applying to the university of your choice.
• In some universities in Dubai, the degree certificate is gotten directly from the main campus country. In contrast, other universities offer prospective graduates the option of having their degree certificate either from the UAE or from the country of the main campus.
• Early applicants will be awarded a discount provided they pay the tuition fee deposit within the specified time. You can verify this information with the university. The scholarship (no matter how little) can go in a long way to finance your academic journey.
• Initially, it was difficult to find a church to attend close to my accommodation. Still, a family friend introduced me to a church in Dubai about 20 minutes away from my flat by taxi and an hour by metro. However, due to pandemic, most churches hold their services online. These are a list of churches in Dubai such as Various parishes of The Redeemed Christian Church of God RCCG, International Baptist Church, The Redeemer Church, Emirates Baptist Church, Dubai Evangelical Church Centre, God’s kingdom Citizens, Seventh Day Adventist. Mind you, there are many other churches.
• There are various accommodation options close to most international universities. Therefore if you decide to get an accommodation in Dubai before you arrive, make sure you verify your university's distance to the chosen apartment in Dubai with the real estate agent or whoever’s helping you sort out your accommodation.

Phew! I have written a lot..

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let me know what you think about schooling in Dubai.