Dubai: A Complete Guide for International Students
Dubai is a dynamic city that blends futuristic innovation with deep-rooted cultural traditions. As the education hub of the Middle East, Dubai offers world-class institutions, globally recognized degrees, and an exceptional lifestyle for international students. Here’s everything you need to know about studying and living in Dubai!
🌍 Country Overview
📍 Capital: Abu Dhabi (Dubai is the largest city)
🗣 Official Language: Arabic (English widely used in education and business)
💰 Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)
👥 Population: ~3.5 million (Dubai city)
🎓 Famous for: Global business hub, luxury lifestyle, innovation, safety, tax-free salaries
Dubai is home to campuses of top global universities from the US, UK, Australia, and India, making it an attractive destination for quality international education.
🏞 Geography
🔹 Location: Middle East, southeast of the Arabian Peninsula
🔹 Borders: Oman, Saudi Arabia, Persian Gulf
🔹 Landscape: Desert dunes, coastline, skyscrapers, artificial islands
🔹 Major Areas: Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah, Academic City
Dubai offers a contrast of iconic skylines and serene beaches, modernity and Arabian heritage.
📜 History
While Dubai’s rise is recent, its roots go deep.
🕌 Early Settlements: Fishing and pearl diving village in the 18th century
💼 Oil Discovery: 1966 – spurred rapid development
🌆 Modern Era: Now a global tourism, education, and business hub
Dubai’s transformation from desert outpost to global city is one of the world’s most remarkable success stories.
💰 Economy
Dubai is a major financial and commercial centre.
📈 GDP (Dubai): Over $120 billion
🏢 Key Sectors: Trade, tourism, aviation, real estate, finance, education
🌍 Business Hub: Hosts global HQs and events like Expo 2020
📦 No Income Tax: One of the biggest attractions for expats
Students benefit from a highly developed, opportunity-rich environment.
🌦 Climate
Dubai has a desert climate.
☀ Summer (May–September): 35°C – 45°C, very hot
🍂 Winter (November–March): 15°C – 25°C, pleasant and ideal for outdoors
🌧️ Rainfall: Minimal and brief, usually in January–February
Most institutions are air-conditioned and built for comfort year-round.
🎭 Culture
Dubai is a cosmopolitan city with over 200 nationalities.
🕌 Religion: Islam (but tolerant and respectful of all faiths)
👘 Dress Code: Modest in public places
📅 Weekend: Saturday & Sunday (Friday is holy day)
🎉 Festivals: Ramadan, Eid, Dubai Shopping Festival, National Day
Dubai strikes a balance between traditional values and a progressive global outlook.
🍲 Food & Drinks
Dubai is a culinary melting pot.
🍛 Shawarma & Falafel – Middle Eastern staples
🍤 Machboos – Spiced rice with meat or seafood
🍩 Luqaimat – Sweet dumplings
🌍 International Cuisines – From Indian thalis to Japanese sushi
🚫 Alcohol – Available in licensed places, not public
Whether street food or fine dining, options are endless.
📅 Public Holidays
These holidays often influence campus schedules.
| Holiday | Date | Celebration |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Start of the calendar year |
| Eid al-Fitr | Varies (Islamic calendar) | End of Ramadan |
| Eid al-Adha | Varies | Festival of Sacrifice |
| UAE National Day | December 2 | Founding of the UAE |
| Islamic New Year & Prophet’s Birthday | Varies | Religious observance |
Note: Dates based on lunar calendar—subject to official announcements.
⏰ Time Zone
🕒 Gulf Standard Time (GST) — UTC+4
🕒 No daylight saving time
⚡ Quick Facts About Dubai
✔ Nickname: The City of Gold
✔ Transport: Modern metro, taxis, buses – all safe and efficient
✔ Driving: On the right-hand side
✔ Main Religion: Islam
✔ International Students: 30,000+ in Dubai’s universities
✔ Landmarks: Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Mall
✔ Safety: Among the safest cities globally
✔ Languages on Campus: English is the medium of instruction
📍 Planning to Study in Dubai? Let Impel Overseas Consultants Be Your Guide!
Dubai combines global academic excellence with an unmatched quality of life. With zero income tax, vibrant city life, and easy access to international opportunities, it’s a smart choice for your future.
🎓 Impel Overseas Consultants can help you with:
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University selection
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Scholarship options
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Application & visa process
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Accommodation and pre-departure guidance
📩 Contact us today to start your journey toward success in Dubai!
Admission Support Kit – Dubai
| Admission Checklist | SOP- Guidelines | ||||
| CV/Resume | |||||
| General RECO Letter |
Business RECO Letter |
