Beyond the Ivy dream: Dubai's growing pull on Indian students
The changes are intended to manage migration flows, but they also raise concerns for families investing in expensive international degrees.
Published: June 23, 2025 / 15:43 IST
By India Today Education Desk
Shifting preferences in 2025
In 2025, Indian families are rethinking where to send their children for higher education. Traditionally, the United Kingdom and Canada were among the top choices due to their strong academic institutions and immigration pathways. However, with new visa restrictions and evolving policies, these destinations are losing some of their appeal. At the same time, Dubai is gaining attention as an emerging education hub.
International universities, quality of life, and proximity to India make it an attractive option. As education decisions become more strategic, many Indian parents are now viewing Dubai not just as a backup plan but as a preferred destination.
The scale of Indian enrolment in Dubai
According to Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), over 100,000 Indian students are currently enrolled in private schools across the Emirate — making Indians the largest expatriate student group.
- Enrolments by Indian students rose by 26% between 2021 and 2024.
- A Dubai Land Department report showed that Indians were the top foreign buyers of real estate in 2023, accounting for nearly 20% of foreign transactions — a strong indicator of family relocation.
Industry estimates suggest a 35–40% YoY rise in Indian family-linked migration to Dubai over the past two years, driven by long-term residency programs such as the 10-year Golden Visa.
Why UK and Canada are losing ground
-
United Kingdom:
- Tightened visa framework in 2025.
- Harder for non-STEM/non-research students to bring dependents.
- Financial requirements for visa approval increased.
- Limited post-study work options for non-critical skills.
-
Canada:
- Cap on study permits due to housing and infrastructure concerns.
- Higher rejection rates for applications via private colleges.
- Introduced uncertainty for thousands of Indian students.
These controls raise concerns for families spending heavily on international education, with unclear long-term outcomes.
Why Dubai is attracting Indian students in 2025
Dubai has built a network of globally affiliated universities over the past decade. Students can now earn degrees from prestigious institutions such as:
- Heriot-Watt University Dubai
- University of Birmingham Dubai
Advantages:
- Degrees equivalent to those at the parent campus.
- Academic hubs like Knowledge Park and Dubai International Academic City.
- Proximity to India — fast and affordable travel.
- Simpler visa processes compared to the West.
Lifestyle, accessibility, and practical value
Dubai offers a student experience blending academic quality with real-world convenience:
- Classes in English, global-standard campuses.
- Safety, good transport, healthcare access.
- Manageable cost of living compared to London or Toronto.
- Scholarships and financial aid available.
For families, Dubai offers cultural familiarity, Indian curriculum schools, and community networks. Parents can accompany students or relocate easily.
UAE’s wealth-friendly environment encourages migration
The UAE’s tax-friendly policies add to Dubai’s educational appeal:
- Zero income tax and no capital gains tax.
- Investor-friendly business environment.
- Real estate and long-term residency opportunities.
Compared to Singapore’s tighter rules, Dubai feels more open and accommodating — allowing Indian families to use it as both an education hub and a second base.
The bigger picture: Dubai's education strategy
Dubai’s position is no accident. The UAE government deliberately invested in:
- International university branches.
- Education-friendly policies.
- Student housing, internships, and job placements.
This provides a stable, predictable environment for families, unlike Western countries where policy shifts disrupt plans.
Looking ahead: A shift based on logic and value
Indian families are choosing Dubai for reasons rooted in clarity, convenience, and long-term vision.
- Western visa restrictions force rethinking of education destinations.
- Dubai offers streamlined visa processes (15–20 days).
- Students benefit from globally recognized degrees and transferable credits.
- Hybrid, regional work models align well with Dubai’s education hub strategy.
For Indian parents who value quality, safety, and financial prudence, Dubai represents a future-ready education destination.
With inputs from Varun Singh, MD, XIPHIAS Immigration
Published By: Megha Chaturvedi
Published On: June 23, 2025
