Quick Summary
American University in Dubai, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is a private that has shaped higher education since 1995. Ranked #601-610 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 2000 students including 75% from outside United Arab Emirates. Known for strengths in Architecture, Art and Design, Business and Management, it maintains an acceptance rate of 72%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Dual US and UAE accreditation; central location in Dubai’s business hub; highly international environment
Subject Strengths
ArchitectureArt and DesignBusiness and ManagementCommunication and Media Studies
Founded1995
TypePrivate
Total Students2000
Intl Students75%
Faculty Ratio15:1
CampusUrban
Campus Size1.3 million sq ft
Affiliated HospitalsNot Available
AccreditationSACSCOC, CAA (UAE Ministry of Education), ABET, NAAB, AACSB
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#601-610
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
Not Available
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
Not Available
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's, Master's, Professional Certificates
Programs
Not Available
PhD Programs
Not Available
Online Programs
AUD Center for Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship
Research Centers
Moderate
Research Output
SACSCOC, CAA (UAE Ministry of Education), ABET, NAAB, AACSB
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate72%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL79
Min GPA3
GRENot Available
GMATRequired for MBA (waivable for high GPA)
SATRecommended
ACTNot Available
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · July 31
SPRINGApplication Deadline · December 15
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Submit attested transcripts early; focus on the personal statement; international students should apply 3 months in advance for visa processing.
05
Cost Ledger
Amounts in United Arab Emirates Dirham
UG Tuition
AED101,000/yr
per year · AED
Living Cost
AED66,000/yr
per year · AED
PG Tuition
AED80,800/yr
per year · AED
Application Fee
$115
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
AED167,420/yr
tuition + living + essentials · AED
Scholarships AvailableSheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Scholarship, Academic Merit, Athletic Scholarship
Avg Scholarship$10,000
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyAvailable
06
Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's, Master's, Professional Certificates programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Architecture | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Bachelor of Business Administration | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| B.S. in Civil Engineering | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Master of Business Administration | MBA | 12-24 MO |
07
Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$48,000
Average Salary After Graduation
90%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementHigh; Mandatory for graduation in most programs
Industry Connections
Strong links with Dubai Media CityInternet Cityand major global architecture firms
Notable Alumni
High-level media professionals and governmental advisors in the GCC
08
Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Indoor and outdoor courts, swimming pool, gymnasium, soccer field
Student Clubs
Over 40 clubs including Model UN, Student Government, and cultural clubs
Library Resources
Extensive digital database, design-specific journals, study rooms
Exchange Programs
Georgia Tech, Clinton Scholars, various European partners
Summer Programs
Available