The UAE is home to dozens of international universities and branch campuses. Here is the complete 2025 guide to UAE student visas.
UAE Student Visa Overview
A UAE student visa allows a foreign national to reside in the UAE for the duration of their studies at an approved UAE educational institution. Duration: 1 year (renewable annually for the duration of the programme). Eligibility: enrolled at a UAE-approved university or school. UAE university approvals: all accredited UAE universities are approved for student visa sponsorship. The university acts as the visa sponsor. Key UAE universities: New York University Abu Dhabi, Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, Paris-Sorbonne Khalifa University, American University of Sharjah, University of Sharjah, BITS Pilani Dubai, SP Jain School of Global Management (Dubai), and Middlesex University Dubai.
UAE Student Visa Application Process
Students do not apply for the visa themselves — the UAE university applies on their behalf. Process: Step 1 — receive admission offer from a UAE university. Step 2 — complete the university enrolment process. Step 3 — the university submits a student visa sponsorship request to immigration (GDRFA Dubai or ICP). Step 4 — student receives an entry permit (or visa-on-arrival confirmation). Step 5 — student enters UAE and completes the Emirates ID biometrics (medical fitness test + fingerprints). Step 6 — student residence visa is stamped. Cost: AED 2,000-4,000 in government fees. Often included in the university enrolment fee. Processing time: 2-4 weeks after enrolment confirmation.
Student Visa and Part-Time Work
UAE student visa holders can legally work part-time in the UAE (up to 20 hours per week during term time) under MOHRE regulations for student part-time work permits. The employer must obtain the part-time work permit from MOHRE. After graduation: graduates from UAE universities can apply for a UAE graduate visa (allowing a 1-year job search period after graduation before converting to an employment or investor visa).