A year ago, students across the world were preparing for what had become a familiar rite of passage, heading abroad for higher education. The US, the UK, Canada, Australia – these names dominated conversations around kitchen tables and in university counselling sessions. Families planned, saved, and dreamed. The growing legal feud between Harvard University and the US government over visa allocation for foreign students is just one apt example of how politics and policies are changing the course of international education.
But in the past few months, that sense of certainty has begun to erode. Headlines about rising US student visa denials have spread through student forums. Canada’s new cap on study permits left many prospective applicants scrambling. While the UK revised its post-study work rules, Australia reassessed its migration policies that compelled international students to explore other geographies.
With these developments taking root, families as well as students are being pushed to rethink their alternatives. The idea of procuring a degree from a prestigious institution has become secondary, with factors such as visa clarity, post-study work opportunities, cost of living, and quality of life now taking precedence.
Obviously, there is a renewed focus on exploring the alternatives. In recent years, countries like Singapore, Germany, the Netherlands, the UAE, and India have emerged as strong choices. Driving this shift of educational choice, there has been a significant investment in education, infrastructure, alignment of programs with the needs of modern industries, and building supportive immigration policies across these countries.
Among them, the UAE has carved out a distinct position. Its economy grew by 3.6% last year, and non-oil sectors contributed about 73% of GDP. This indicates that the nation is committed to innovation and diversification. Dubai alone hosts 60+ international branch campuses, including those of global universities like the University of Birmingham, Heriot-Watt, Symbiosis International University and Rochester Institute of Technology. According to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Dubai attracted over 30,000 international students in the year 2023, a 15% jump from the previous year. But figures only reveal half of the story. The UAE is working hard to make educational institutions partner with industries so as to build employability in the students and make them future-ready. The Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence is a perfect example, preparing students for professions in AI, robotics, and data science, while many colleges are establishing tie-ups with industry to keep their curriculum relevant and useful.
Another reason why students are choosing the UAE is the promise of a wonderful life off campus. With modern and contemporary infrastructure, a high standard of living, and a friendly expat community, the UAE offers much more beyond a good education. For those thinking about the years after graduation, the country’s Golden Visa provides a pathway to long-term residence for top-performing graduates, a level of security that many traditional destinations can no longer guarantee.
Any good degree requires global recognition, and the UAE is making steady progress in this area. While many colleges have worldwide accreditations, the business partnerships are helping to bridge the gap between on-campus learning and real-world demands. The opportunities for internships, research, and cross-cultural experiences are huge incentives for students. It’s also clear that students are the catalysts in this change. They are questioning many factors today about the transparency of the visa process, post-study work permits and opportunities, safety, well-being in the country, and affordability. In many cases, emerging hubs like the UAE are providing answers that feel more reassuring than those offered by traditional destinations.
Offering over 200 direct flights to India and major global cities, Dubai stands out as a strategically located and emotionally reassuring choice for Indian students, providing world-class exposure while keeping them close to home.
Dubai’s low crime rates and effective governance are making it a safe haven. Its stability, services, and secure environment give students the freedom to thrive and provide families with peace of mind.
Dubai’s thriving sectors, including AI, media, and finance, and an impressive 98% employment rate, are driving students toward successful career paths through hands-on learning and mentorship.
In today’s interconnected world, accreditation is the global language of trust. Dubai’s institutions, accredited by the CAA and KHDA, ensure strong academic standards and global recognition. As of 2024, the UAE hosts 123 accredited institutions and 1,375 approved programs, assuring students that their degrees are locally grounded and globally accepted. Symbiosis Dubai is the first Indian university to start with complete CAA accreditation and all the programs are also accredited by the CAA, which is very rare in the UAE.
One of the biggest advantages for ambitious students in the UAE is the 10-year Golden Visa, which allows high-performing graduates from accredited institutions to live, work, and bring their families without requiring a local sponsor. Combined with options like jobseeker, freelance, and investor visas, it provides rare long-term clarity and a seamless transition into the workforce, something increasingly important to both students and their families.
To keep this momentum going, continuous effort is needed to uphold high academic standards, regularly update programs to match industry needs, and maintain transparency around policies that build lasting trust with students and families.
The landscape of global education is evolving rapidly. As traditional education leaders face political pressures and shifting public attitudes, new destinations are emerging to better serve the needs of today’s students. Countries that blend quality education with opportunity, transparency, and a welcoming environment will shape the future of international learning.
For many families today, the decision goes beyond just choosing the best universities. It’s about finding a place where students can build a meaningful life and future. Making this choice thoughtfully and wisely is more important than ever.
Dr. Akanksha Khanna is an Assistant Professor of Management at Symbiosis Dubai, with over 18 years of academic experience. She holds a PhD in Marketing and is a Fellow of Advance HE (UK) and an Associate CIPD (Level 5). Her research focuses on producing high-quality work in marketing, leadership, and education.
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