About Dubai
Dubai is so much more than just skyscrapers and luxury; it’s a vibrant, multicultural city that suits students down to the ground. The city is famous for its landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, and boasts year-round sunshine, stunning beaches, and a vibrant lifestyle. With cheap rent, a great and varied food scene, good public transportation, and student-friendly neighborhoods, Dubai is an easy place to live and study. Universities like the University of Dubai, American University in Dubai, and Middlesex University Dubai attract students from all over the world.
Affordable student housing can be found in Academic City, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Al Barsha. Cities nearby, such as Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, provide a perfect weekend trip. And whether you are hitting the books at the local coffee shop or decompressing at Kite Beach, Dubai makes a fine line between work and play.
Best Student Accommodation in Dubai
Alphaway offers some of the best student housing in Dubai, from affordable shared apartments to luxury student studios. Every listing is verified and secure, giving you peace of mind. Each home has 24/7 support and all-inclusive rent. Discover the perfect Dubai student accommodation for you on your academic journey:
Why Choose Dubai for Higher Education
Dubai is rising in global education, with outstanding world-leading universities, great industrial connections, and a diverse student population. With global internships and a multicultural environment, Dubai is the perfect environment to get a global view of the world and to grow, both academically and personally. Its modern infrastructure and student-focused amenities make it an excellent place for international students.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Dubai
There are many student-friendly neighbourhoods in Dubai. Here is some of the student favs:
- Academic City: A purpose-built educational center near universities such as Zayed University and Heriot-Watt. It provides affordable student housing and excellent public transportation.
- Dubai Silicon Oasis: High-tech and modern, this area has student flats close to the universities, malls, gyms, and cafés.
- Al Barsha: A hit with students at the American University in Dubai and Middlesex University. Provides cheap student accommodation in Dubai along with lots of food and shopping choices.
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): A calmer residential neighborhood home to quite a lot of purpose-built student housing units.
- Downtown Dubai: Downtown offers high-end residences near cultural attractions and nightlife, for those seeking a luxury lifestyle, this area is the best fit.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in Dubai
- Private Student Accommodation (PBSA): Dubai PBSA are the properties that offer all-inclusive rent, fully furnished rooms with study zones, gyms, lounges, etc. From shared student apartments (accommodation with shared facilities), ensuite student rooms (private bathroom), and private studios (fully self-contained), students have different options according to their budget.
- University Halls: These are the accommodation for students that is provided by universities. There can be differences in facilities, but these generally offer easy access to campus and academic life.
- Sharing apartments: Shared student apartments in Dubai are flats where students share a flat and each lives independently. These allow more flexibility but involve managing bills and cleaning.
Cost of Living in Dubai for International Students
The cost of living in Dubai for students can be managed if planned well. Here is the breakdown of the budget:
- Rent: AED 2,500 to AED 5,000 per month based on location and room type. PBSA commonly has utilities and amenities included.
- Groceries: AED 500-AED 800/month. Low-cost supermarkets are Carrefour and Lulu.
- Transport: AED 200 – AED 300 per month for a student card. The metro and buses are dependable and convenient.
- Dining Out: AED 25-AED 70/meal. Affordable food is to be found all over the place, especially around student areas.
- Entertainment & Shopping: AED 300 to AED 600 per month for movies, events, and shopping, which totally depend on your lifestyle.
Transportation in Dubai
Transportation in Dubai enables high connectivity for students:
- Metro: Quick, clean, and serves a lot of important university and housing areas.
- Buses: Affordable and far-reaching, even for suburban campuses.
- Taxis & Ride Apps: Reliable and around the clock. Easily accessible.
- Airport access: Dubai International Airport is very central. Metro, shuttles, and taxis are readily available for the airport.
- Student Travel Cards: Apply for a Student Card and save money on your metro and bus rides.
Student Life in Dubai
Student life in Dubai is full of academic and cultural activities. Take a look at a few things that make student life in Dubai the absolute best:
- Restaurants & Cafés: Explore cuisines from all over the world in affordable local spots or chic Dubai Marina hangouts.
- Student Clubs & Events: Most universities offer clubs, festivals, and cultural nights.
- Markets & Malls: Spend weekends at The Dubai Mall or local souks.
- Weekend Getaways: Quick trips to Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, or Fujairah beaches.
- Libraries & Study Spots: Quiet spaces in Knowledge Village, campus libraries, and cafés.
- Live Music & Art: From desert concerts to Dubai Opera and Art Dubai-the scene is vibrant.
Universities in Dubai
- University of Dubai: Known for business and IT programs, centrally located and career focused.
- American University in Dubai (AUD): Offers a wide range of programs and a beautiful campus near the Marina.
- Middlesex University Dubai: A UK branch campus offering British degrees and a diverse student body.
- Heriot-Watt University Dubai: Strong in engineering and design, located in Dubai Knowledge Park.
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education: Offers programs in engineering, business, and media studies.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- University Scholarships: Institutions like AUD and Heriot-Watt offer merit and need-based financial aid.
- Government Aid: UAE nationals and some expats can apply for local education funding.
- GCC Scholarships: Students from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman can explore country-specific grants.
- External Options: Global scholarships like the Fulbright or Erasmus (if enrolled in eligible programs).
Tips for International Students in Dubai
- Set Up a Bank Account: Emirates NBD and Mashreq have student-friendly services.
- Get a SIM Card: Du and Etisalat offer prepaid plans with student discounts.
- Understand Local Customs: Dress modestly in public areas and respect local culture.
- Budget Smart: Track spending and use student discount apps.
- Alphaway Support: We help with airport pickup, local SIMs, and setting up your student room in Dubai.
Health & Safety Tips & Student Well-Being Resources
- Register with a GP: Access healthcare via clinics or your university’s medical services.
- Emergency Contacts: Save 999 for police/medical and your university’s helpdesk number.
- Night Travel: Use metro/buses until late or book Careem/Uber with student discounts.
- Mental Health Support: Most universities offer free counselling and mental wellness programs.
