Dubai Aims for 50% International Student Enrollment by 2033
Leading universities in Dubai are intensifying efforts to boost international student enrollment. The goal? To have foreign students make up 50% of all higher education enrollments by 2033. Institutions across the emirate are launching new programs and scholarship packages to support this target.
Middlesex University Dubai Expands Global Reach
Dr. Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Director at Middlesex University Dubai, revealed that the campus currently hosts over 6,300 students from 127+ nationalities. He expects international students to represent more than 50% of total enrollment by 2026.
To meet this target, the university is increasing global outreach through:
-
Targeted digital marketing
-
In-person international roadshows
-
Stronger education agent networks
Middlesex will introduce new undergraduate and postgraduate programs starting September 2025. These programs align with Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, emphasizing innovation, talent, and economic growth. New MBA tracks include:
-
Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics
-
Aviation Management
-
Hospitality and Events Management
-
Real Estate
-
Sustainability
UOWD Reports Strong Momentum in International Enrollments
At the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), the international recruitment strategy is already delivering results. In 2024, 45% of new students came from overseas through agents or direct applications.
Professor Mohamed Salem, UOWD President, confirmed that their university is on track to reach the 50% international student mark well before 2033. Early data for 2025 already shows promising signs of growth.
Canadian University Dubai Offers Dual Degrees and Global Flexibility
Canadian University Dubai (CUD) is expanding partnerships with top-tier Canadian institutions. These collaborations provide students with:
-
Dual degrees
-
Exchange programs
-
Academic bridge pathways
According to Dr. Adam Fenech, Provost at CUD, students can now start their education in Dubai and finish in Canada, or vice versa, offering flexibility and global experience.
CUD is also increasing merit-based scholarships and launching new awards for programs in:
-
Sustainability
-
Artificial Intelligence
-
Entrepreneurship
BITS Pilani Dubai Focuses on Affordability and Talent
BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, one of the oldest Indian universities in the UAE, continues to prioritize affordability.
Prof. Swarnalatha Rajaguru, Associate Dean of Admissions and Marketing, emphasized the university’s commitment to recognizing talented students from around the world. Their scholarship programs target students who:
-
Excel academically
-
Lead in their communities
-
Offer unique perspectives
“Our goal is to make top-quality education in Dubai more accessible,” she stated.
Dubai Offers Long-Term Student Visas and Golden Visa Options
Government policies are also helping attract international students. These include:
-
Long-term student visas
-
Post-study work opportunities
-
Access to the UAE Golden Visa for top talent
These initiatives match the expectations of a globally mobile student body and reinforce Dubai’s position as a rising global education hub.
