Looking to study in the UK as a Middle Eastern student? You’ve landed at the right place! The UK is one of the most popular international destinations for Middle Eastern students. Every year, thousands of students from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and other countries in the Middle East fly to the UK for its globally ranked universities, multicultural campuses, and post-study opportunities.
Read on to explore UK top rated universities for middle eastern students, middle eastern studies in the UK, scholarships, entry requirement, student life in the UK, and much more.
Why is UK a Top Choice for Middle Eastern Students
The UK offers some of the world’s best ranking universities, unmatched academic excellence and massive post-study opportunities for students. But these are not the only reasons why students choose the UK over other countries. Here are all the other reasons:
- World-ranked universities with diverse course offerings
- English-medium instruction across all levels
- Active Middle Eastern student societies for cultural comfort
- Scholarship options tailored for Middle Eastern nationals
- A smooth UK student visa process and post-study work rights
Curious about how many students from the Middle East are studying abroad? Check out our blog: Middle Eastern Students Abroad in Numbers
Top-Rated UK Universities Popular with Middle Eastern Students
Here are some of the top-rated UK universities consistently ranked among the best, and particularly popular with students from the Middle East:
- University of Oxford
The University of Oxford ranks #1 in the UK (according to QS World Rankings 2025) and is one of the best universities in the UK for international students. Known for its programs in Law, Medicine, and Middle Eastern Studies, University of Oxford is chosen by hundreds of Middle Eastern students every year. The university’s St Antony’s College also hosts the Middle East Centre which offers focused postgraduate programs and research in Middle Eastern politics, economics, and history. - University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge is ranked #2 in the UK. It offers outstanding programs in Engineering, Natural Sciences, Arabic, and Islamic Studies. It is one of the best universities in UK for international students and is popular among students from the middle east for its strong academic ties with institutions in the Gulf region and its well-integrated curriculum for Middle Eastern studies. - Imperial College London
Imperial College London ranks #3 in the UK and is known worldwide for its excellence in Engineering, Medicine, and Data Science. ICL is a UK university popular with Middle Eastern students for its world-renowned STEM degrees, high employability rankings, and research-oriented course structures. - University College London (UCL)
UCL consistently ranks among the top 10 universities globally and is known to be one of the best universities in the UK for international students. It is especially popular for programs in Architecture, Law, and Political Science. Students from the middle east choose UCL for its huge range of courses, diverse campus life, and active Middle Eastern societies. - SOAS University of London
SOAS (School of Oriental and African Studies) stands out for its unique academic focus on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Middle Eastern students choose SOAS for its programs in Middle Eastern Studies, Languages, and Politics. SOAS is particularly attractive to students looking to specialize in Arabic, Persian, Turkish, or regional history and diplomacy. - University of Edinburgh
Heriot-Watt University is ranked among the top 30 in the UK. Students choose this university for its practical, career-focused programs in Business, Engineering, and Finance. What makes it unique is its Dubai campus, which allows students to begin their studies in the UAE and complete their degree in the UK.
For a detailed breakdown on life as a UAE student in the UK, check out our blog: Study in the UK: A Complete Guide for UAE Students
How to Shortlist the Right UK University as a Middle Eastern Student
Choosing a university is more than just looking at rankings. Here are a few other factors to consider while choosing a university:
- Location & climate: Ask yourself if you prefer the fast-paced city life of London or a quieter city like York or Bath?
- Presence of Arab communities: Having your own community around you makes living in a foreign country very easy. Top ranked UK Universities in cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and London have a strong Arab student presence.
- Support services: Choose universities with international student advisors, visa support, and cultural societies. You might not need it now, but they will eventually be of big help.
- Postgraduate pathways: If you want to stay back in the UK to study further or work, check if your university is part of the UK Graduate Route.
Middle Eastern Studies in the UK
Several universities in the UK for international students offer excellent programs in Middle Eastern languages, culture, and geopolitics. Some of the best institutions include:
- SOAS University of London: Offers BA and MA programs in Arabic, Persian, Turkish, and regional studies.
- University of Oxford: The Middle East Centre provides specialised postgraduate programs in regional history, economics, and politics.
- University of Exeter: Home to the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, known for interdisciplinary research.
Scholarships for Middle Eastern Students
Scholarships can really help aid your education and living expenses when studying in a foreign country. Middle eastern students can apply for various scholarships for top ranked UK universities available especially for them:
- KASP – King Abdullah Scholarship Program (Saudi Arabia)
KASP offers fully funded scholarship for Saudi nationals studying abroad. It covers tuition, travel, living costs, and insurance. Find out more about this scholarship on their official website - Ministry of Higher Education Scholarships (UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar)
These government-sponsored scholarships cover full or partial tuition and are often coordinated with the student’s chosen UK university. The details vary in each country and ministry. - University-Specific Scholarships
Many top-ranked UK universities offer scholarships for international students, including:- UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarships
- University of Edinburgh Global Scholarships
- Imperial College London President’s Scholarship
- SOAS Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Scholarships
Always check the official university websites for updated scholarship details and deadlines.
Entry Requirements & Student Visa Guidance
Entry Requirements
- Undergraduate: High school certificate equivalent + IELTS/TOEFL
- Postgraduate: Bachelor's degree + IELTS/TOEFL + academic transcripts
Visa Guidance
- Apply for the UK Student Visa (formerly Tier 4).
- Required documents: CAS letter from your university, proof of funds, proof of accommodation, English language test score.
- Apply at least 3 months before your intended travel date or as soon as you get the CAS letter from your university.
Pro tip: Keep the required documents like English language test score and proof of funds ready in advance before your CAS letter is due. You can also book your accommodation in advance. Platforms like Alphaway offer a “No Place No Pay” policy which allows you to get a full refund of your room fee if you don’t get an acceptance letter from university. This way, you’ll be on time to apply for your VISA.
Student Life & Support Networks
UK cities and universities are inclusive for students of all cultures and religions. From mosques to halal food, students from the middle east will find everything in the UK to make them feel at home. In most cities and universities in the UK, you’ll find:
- Active Arab and Middle Eastern student societies
- Halal food options on or near campus
- Nearby mosques and prayer spaces
- Cultural festivals and networking events
Top Welcoming Cities for Middle Eastern Students
- London: Multicultural hub with embassies, student groups, and Middle Eastern restaurants
- Manchester: Affordable city with a strong Arab student population
- Edinburgh: Safe and scenic with an inclusive academic environment
Career Opportunities After Graduation
The UK offers a Graduate Route visa, which allows international students to stay and work for up to two years (or three years for PhD graduates) after completing their degree.
Where Students Find Jobs:
- Tech, finance, healthcare, consulting, and education
- Many return to the Gulf region and work in government, oil & gas, finance, or entrepreneurship
Job Search Resources:
- Prospects UK – Graduate job listings, advice by subject
- TargetJobs – Internships and graduate schemes
- Student Circus – UK jobs and internships that sponsor visas
- LinkedIn Jobs
- University career centres often offer one-on-one guidance, mock interviews, and employer networking events
Make sure to attend job fairs and employer-led events on campus to build connections early.
