Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Heriot-Watt University is internationally respected for its industry-focused research and applied teaching, particularly in engineering, energy, and quantitative disciplines. The Dubai campus mirrors this philosophy, combining theoretical rigor with real-world application. Students at the Dubai campus also have opportunities to transfer between campuses in Dubai, the UK, and Malaysia, subject to academic requirements.
Key Highlights
Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical)
Civil Engineering & Construction Management
Business Management & International Business
Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
Actuarial Science & Finance
Architecture & Built Environment
Students from across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia.
About the University
Heriot-Watt University Dubai is the Dubai campus of Heriot-Watt University , one of the United Kingdom’s oldest and most respected technical universities, founded in 1821 . The Dubai campus was established in 2005 , making it one of the first international branch campuses in Dubai .
Located in Dubai Knowledge Park and Dubai International Academic City , Heriot-Watt Dubai offers UK-accredited degrees delivered fully in the UAE , following the same curriculum, academic standards, assessments, and quality assurance as the UK campus. Degrees are awarded directly by Heriot-Watt University (UK), ensuring global recognition .
The university is particularly known in the region for engineering, business, construction, data science, and built environment disciplines , and attracts students from across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia .
Programs Offered
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s)
Postgraduate (Master’s Degrees)
Doctoral Programs (PhD – Research-based)
Admission Details
Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
Applicants must hold:
- A-Levels, IB, UK Foundation, or equivalent international qualifications
- UAE high school certificate (for local applicants)
Engineering and technical programs typically require:
- Strong Mathematics background
- Physics for engineering-related degrees
English Language Requirements
- IELTS 6.0 – 6.5 , depending on program
- Equivalent English qualifications may be accepted
- Students who do not meet requirements may enroll in pre-sessional English programs
Postgraduate Admission
Applicants must hold recognized a Bachelor’s degree .
- Minimum CGPA typically 2.75 – 3.0
- Relevant academic background required for technical programs
- MBA applicants may require work experience
- Research degrees require a research proposal and supervisor approval
Deadline
Heriot-Watt University Dubai runs on multiple intakes each year (typically January, May, and September). There is no single fixed deadline, but applicants are recommended to apply at least 8 weeks before their chosen intake to allow time for application processing and, for international students, visa arrangements.
How to Apply
You can apply online via the official Heriot-Watt University Dubai admissions portal by completing the application form, uploading your academic transcripts and supporting documents, and submitting them for review by the Admissions Office.
Fee Structure
Tuition Fee
Undergraduate Degrees
- AED 55,000 – 75,000 per year
Master’s Degrees
- AED 65,000 – 90,000 total
PhD Programs
- Fees vary by research discipline and duration
Additional fees may include:
- Registration and administrative fees
- Laboratory and studio fees
- Student activity and resource fees
Additional Fees
Living Costs in Dubai
including: Accommodation (shared apartment or student housing), Food and groceries, Local transportation, Personal expenses
Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships
Eligibility:
Available for Undergraduate and Postgraduate students. Based on academic excellenc.
Alumni & Progression Scholarships
Eligibility:
For students progressing from Foundation or internal pathways. For Heriot-Watt alumni continuing to postgraduate study.
Campus Life
Facilities
Advanced engineering and computing laboratories
Architecture and design studios
Smart lecture theatres and seminar rooms
Library and digital academic resources
Student lounges and collaborative spaces
Sports and recreational facilities
Career services and student support offices
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the degree awarded by the UK?
Is the Dubai degree identical to the UK degree?
Can students transfer to the UK campus?
Is Heriot-Watt strong in engineering?
Does the university assist with student visas?
Contact Information
Website url: https://www.hw.ac.uk/dubai
General email: info@hw.ac.uk
Phone number: +971 4 435 7700
Complete address: Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
