Heriot-Watt University in Dubai offers British higher education in Dubai, with foundation, undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD programmes. The campus is located in Dubai Knowledge Park and offers students access to a multicultural environment, modern facilities, and opportunities to study across Heriot-Watt’s international campuses. Students benefit from strong industry links, career-focused teaching and the chance to gain a globally recognised British degree while living in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Popular Heriot-Watt Dubai Courses: Undergraduate & Masters
Heriot-Watt University Dubai offers programmes across business, engineering, computing, data science, psychology, and other fields. Some Heriot-Watt Dubai courses are:
| Study Level | Programme | Key Details |
| Undergraduate | MA Business and Finance | Covers management and finance, including corporate finance, taxation, accounting, and international markets. |
| Undergraduate | BSc (Hons) Computer Science | Combines computing theory with practical skills in programming, databases, software development, and computer systems. |
| Undergraduate | BSc (Hons) Data Sciences | Focuses on mathematics, statistics, programming, machine learning, big data, and AI applications. |
| Postgraduate | MSc Data Science | Covers machine learning, big data management, data visualisation, statistical analysis, and a Master’s project. |
| Postgraduate | MSc Business Psychology | Covers leadership, workplace wellbeing, talent development, and organisational change. |
Understanding Heriot-Watt Dubai Fees: Tuition & Living Costs
Heriot-Watt Dubai fees include tuition as well as application, accommodation, transport, and everyday living expenses. The main costs to consider are:
| Cost | Details |
| Tuition fees | Vary by programme and are listed on individual course pages. |
| Payment options | You can generally pay annual tuition upfront or in four installments. |
| Application fee | AED 300, non-refundable. |
| Security deposit | AED 1,000, refundable after accepting an offer. |
| Accommodation & transport | Charged separately from tuition. |
| Estimated living costs | Approximately GBP 2,500–3,000 per semester, depending on lifestyle and personal expenses. |
Heriot-Watt Dubai Scholarships: How to Fund Your Education
Heriot-Watt University scholarships offer discounts for eligible students. Some available options include:
- Merit Scholarships: Awards based on academic performance.
- Programme-Specific Awards: Funding or discounts available for selected programmes.
- Family and Alumni Scholarships: Support available to eligible family members and Heriot-Watt alumni.
- Sports and Community Awards: Scholarships for eligible students with relevant achievements or involvement.
- Undergraduate Merit Scholarship: Offers 30%, 40%, or 50% tuition discounts based on academic results.
- CBSE Eligibility: Students achieving 80%–84.9%, 85%–89.9%, or 90% and above may qualify for the respective scholarship levels.
Students should check the eligibility criteria, conditions, and deadlines for each scholarship before applying.
Admission Requirements for the Dubai Campus: A Step-by-Step Guide
Admission requirements at the Dubai campus depend on the programme and the applicant’s previous qualifications. Heriot-Watt provides country-specific requirements for international applicants.
For Indian students, the current requirements include:
- Undergraduate: Most Year 1 management and design programmes require 65% in Class 12, while engineering requires 65% overall with at least 60% in Mathematics and Physics/Chemistry.
- Computer Science: 65% overall with at least 60% in Mathematics.
- Postgraduate: Most programmes require a Second Class Lower (2:2) equivalent, with 55% or 5.5 CGPA out of 10 in the relevant undergraduate degree.
- Engineering exceptions: Robotics and Global Sustainability Engineering require a Second Class Upper (2:1) equivalent, with 65% or 6.5 CGPA.
- English: Applicants must demonstrate the required level of English because Heriot-Watt’s programmes are taught and assessed in English. Exact requirements depend on the programme.
Students should check the individual programme page because some courses may have additional academic or subject requirements.
Global Mobility: The “Go Global” Inter-Campus Transfer Programme
Go Global allows eligible Heriot-Watt students to study at another Heriot-Watt campus for a semester, a year, or longer. Students based in Dubai can transfer to the UK or Malaysia, provided their degree programme is available at the destination campus.
As one of the top UK universities in Dubai, the institution offers seamless academic continuity across all locations.
The programme supports application deadlines, visa processes, cultural preparation, and pre-departure arrangements. Students continue studying within the same university and graduate with a Heriot-Watt degree.
Career Prospects and Work Options After Graduation
Heriot-Watt Dubai provides careers and graduate support, including employer engagement, industry events, and opportunities for companies to connect with students and graduates. The university reports that 88.9% of its graduates achieved a positive employment or further-study outcome within 12 months of graduating, based on its 2024 UAE Graduate Destination Survey.
International graduates should distinguish university career support from UAE immigration rules. Students studying in Dubai who require university visa sponsorship need a Student Residence Visa, while post-graduation work or residence options depend on the applicable UAE immigration route and eligibility.
How NewStrides Supports Your Heriot-Watt Application
NewStrides Consulting Pvt Ltd can support students at different stages of the university application process:
- Personalised counselling: Helps students understand study options based on their academic background, interests, and career plans.
- Profile assessment: Reviews academic qualifications to identify courses and universities that match the student’s profile.
- University shortlisting: Helps compare options based on course availability, entry requirements, fees, and student preferences.
- Application guidance: Supports students with the admissions process and required documentation.
- Visa guidance: Helps students understand the visa process and prepare the required documents.
- Study planning: Helps students organise their course and university choices around their academic and career goals.
With our guidance at each stage, students can approach their Heriot-Watt application with a clearer understanding of their course, university, and visa requirements.
Conclusion
Heriot-Watt University Dubai provides students with a high-quality British education in a dynamic international setting. With a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, flexible study pathways through the Go Global initiative, and strong industry-focused learning, the institution suits students exploring dynamic universities in Dubai for global academic and career opportunities. Combined with scholarships, student support services, and access to a multicultural campus environment, it offers a comprehensive study experience in the heart of Dubai.
FAQs
1. Is the degree from Heriot-Watt Dubai the same as the UK degree?
Heriot-Watt states that students at its Dubai campus earn the same degree awarded in the United Kingdom.
2. How much do Master’s programmes at Heriot-Watt Dubai cost?
Fees vary by programme. The university publishes programme-specific tuition fees, so applicants should check the current course page for the latest amount.
3. What visa options are available after graduating from Heriot-Watt Dubai?
The university provides Student Residence Visas for eligible students who require sponsorship during their studies.
4. What are the admission requirements for the Dubai campus for international students?
Requirements depend on the student’s country, programme, and level of study. Indian applicants have specific academic requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate entry.
Supriya Sawant is an accomplished Education Counsellor and Manager with 7+ years of experience in guiding students toward academic success. Specializing in higher education opportunities in the UK and Ireland, she is a trusted advisor and a favourite among her students. Supriya is known for her approachable style, insightful guidance, and dedication to student growth.
