Why You Should Study Engineering in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates is one of the world’s top business destinations. It’s also a fertile ground for innovation and emerging technologies. With the myriad work opportunities and chances for a better life it offers, it’s no wonder that many people would want to work there. 

The field of engineering has a huge role in supporting not only the country’s economic growth but also the quality of life in the UAE. 

According to Professor Khalid Hussain, dean of the University of Wollongong in Dubai, engineers provide technological solutions that are important in the country’s economic development. They also design, manufacture, and maintain the devices, machines, and structures that have become a necessity in everyday life. 

This is why engineers are highly valued not only in the UAE but around the world, and why studying engineering is something that you should seriously consider. 

Why Should You Take Up Engineering in the UAE? 

International students who want to study engineering can choose from hundreds, if not thousands, of institutions worldwide. Here are the top reasons why a university in the UAE would be a great choice.

World-Class Education and Top-Notch Institutions

Many people might not know it, but the UAE is home to some of the best higher education institutions (HEIs) worldwide. In the 2021 QS World University Rankings, eight of the UAE’s universities are included in the top 1,000 institutions in the world. 

In addition, the UAE government, through its Ministry of Education, ensures that education is a national priority. In fact, the education sector gets to have a huge part of the country’s budget. The ministry has also developed the Education 2020 Strategy, a series of plans designed to significantly improve the education system. 

Studying in the UAE enables you to get a firm foundation of the discipline and see how the different engineering concepts and principles are applied in the UAE setting. This will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to become competent in becoming an engineer in the UAE.

High Chances of Working in the UAE

STEM education, which includes the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, has been gaining more popularity in the UAE because of the aim of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states to diversify their economies. As a result, the demand for engineering graduates is on the rise. 

In a study by the UAE Ministry of Education, it was found that among all engineering degrees, a degree in civil engineering promises the most job opportunities. Thus, its graduates have the best chances of working in the country.

In Dubai, one of the country’s biggest cities, engineering expertise continues to be in demand. This is because Dubai’s construction market remains the biggest in the GCC. Not only is the construction sector stable, but it is also projected to grow more in the coming years. 

But no matter what branch of engineering you choose to focus on, simply being a graduate of a UAE institution gives you a better chance of being offered a job in the country. Getting a job offer letter enables you to apply for an employment visa, which would allow you to work in the UAE.

Income Tax-Free

Engineering graduates who are able to get a job in the UAE are in for a pleasant surprise because the country does not impose income tax on individuals. The only entities that are levied with corporate tax are oil companies and foreign banks. This is one of the reasons why a lot of expats are attracted to the country. 

Engineering Opportunities in the UAE

Employment opportunities for engineering graduates in the UAE are plentiful, especially in Dubai. Depending on your study program or degree, there are various jobs that you can apply for in the country. Some of the most popular include: 

1. Environmental engineer
2. Technical engineer 
3. Civil engineer 
4. Mechanical engineer 
5. Technical engineer 
6. Software engineer 
7. Data engineer
8. Manufacturing engineering manager
9. Industrial engineer 
10. Electrical engineer 
11. Materials engineer 
12. Project engineer 
13. Fabrication and development engineer 
14. Aircraft engineer

General Requirements for Getting Into a UAE Institution

Requirements to study engineering in the UAE vary between institutions. For example, some engineering courses may or may not require students to pass an EmSAT Exam for math, chemistry, or physics. 

However, some of the general requirements include: 

1. Proof of English proficiency through English language assessment tests like IELTS or TOEFL
2. A high school certificate 
3. Student visa 
4. Accomplished Application Form 

Want to know what other disciplines you can study in the UAE? Browse through MSMUnify’s UAE study programs to learn more.