- Check that the university and programme are licensed and accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR).
- Apply directly to the university with your academic documents.
- Receive your admission and a certificate from the university stating the length of your study.
- Decide on sponsorship: your accredited university, or a parent who is a UAE resident.
- The university (or your parent) applies for your student residence visa; universities usually handle this process.
- Travel to the UAE and complete the residence formalities your university or sponsor guides you through.
- If you want to work, ask your employer to get a MOHRE student training and employment permit.
Study in United Arab Emirates from Pakistan
Checked October 9, 2026 against official sources
The UAE is close to Pakistan, home to a very large Pakistani community, and hosts many local universities and international branch campuses, which makes it a convenient choice for Pakistani students. Its higher education sector is regulated by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, which licenses institutions and accredits programmes. Students can be sponsored for residence by their university or by a parent living in the UAE. Top students may also qualify for the long-term Golden visa.
Work while studyingEmployers can hire students already in the UAE under a MOHRE student training and employment permit (valid for three months, with a written contract); university students may also get a private teacher work permit.
Work after graduationOutstanding graduates of top universities can apply for a 10-year Golden visa, which allows them to live and work in the UAE without a sponsor.
Why Pakistani students choose United Arab Emirates
- Students can be sponsored by their accredited university or by a UAE-resident parent
- Universities help students get their student residence visa
- Outstanding university students can qualify for a 10-year Golden visa
- Foreign university students may sponsor their families if they can afford suitable housing
- Institutions and programmes are licensed and accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research
What it costs
Living costs: Abu Dhabi · Dubai (daily food, transport and rent estimates).
Work out the money to show in PKR →
Scholarships in United Arab Emirates
All 1 →Student visa and English
Steps to study in United Arab Emirates
Frequently asked questions
Who sponsors my student visa in the UAE?
A student can live in the UAE either under the sponsorship of the accredited university or college they study at, or under a parent who is a UAE resident. Universities help students with the visa process, and you need a certificate from the university stating the duration of your study.
Can my family live with me while I study in the UAE?
Yes. According to the UAE Government portal, foreign students at UAE universities may sponsor their families to stay in the UAE as long as they can afford suitable housing. Check the latest requirements with the immigration authority in your emirate.
Can I work part-time while studying in the UAE?
Employers can hire students already in the UAE under a student training and employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, valid for three months with a written contract. University students can also apply for a private teacher work permit.
Can I stay in the UAE after graduation?
Top university students and outstanding graduates can apply for the 10-year Golden visa, which allows you to live and work without a sponsor. Other graduates would normally need a job and an employment visa. Check the eligibility rules on u.ae or the ICP website.
Amounts in PKR use today's exchange rate. Rules change; always confirm on the official pages linked here before you apply.
