Heriot-Watt University Dubai
📍 Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai, UAE
#287
QS World Rank
of Heriot-Watt University
of Heriot-Watt University
5,000+
Students
125+
Nationalities
2005
Established
💰
💰 Dubai-vs-Home Campus Saving
Save ~25–30%, approx ~£6,000/yr
🇦🇪 Dubai Campus
~£13–17K/yr (UG)
🌍 Home Campus
~£19.5–25K/yr at Edinburgh (Intl)
Why this matters: Same UK degree, taught by HW faculty. Significant savings on UG; PG fees closer to home.
#287
Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh
Founded 1821 · World's first mechanics' institute · 5 Global Campuses
🏛 About the Home University
Heriot-Watt University was founded in Edinburgh in 1821 as the world's first mechanics' institute, ranked QS #287. Globally recognised for Engineering, Actuarial Science, Business and Computer Science. Named Best University in the Middle East by Forbes (2019). KHDA 5-Star rating three consecutive years.
📍 About this Campus
Heriot-Watt Dubai was the very first overseas university in Dubai International Academic City (2005). Now at Dubai Knowledge Park with a purpose-built campus opened by King Charles III in November 2023. Over 5,000 students from 125+ countries. Students can transfer to Edinburgh or Malaysia campuses at any time via Go Global.
🏗 Campus Facilities
📚Modern library + digital resources
🔬Engineering, IT and petroleum labs
🏛Centre of Excellence in Smart Construction
🏋️Gym and swimming pool
🎉Watt Fest, Scottish Highland Games, International Days
🌍Inter-campus transfer: Edinburgh & Malaysia
🏠Partner accommodation: The Myriad Dubai
💼Student Services Centre + counselling
📚 Programmes & Fees
| Programme | Level | Duration | Annual Fee (GBP) | Entry (A-Level) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSc Actuarial Science | UG | 4 yrs | ~£14,500/yr | ABB |
| BEng Mechanical Engineering | UG | 4 yrs | ~£17,000/yr | BBC |
| BEng Civil Engineering | UG | 4 yrs | ~£17,000/yr | BBC |
| BSc Business Management | UG | 4 yrs | ~£13,000/yr | BBB |
| BArch Architecture | UG | 4 yrs | ~£17,000/yr | BBC |
| MBA | PGT | 1 yr | ~£25,500/yr | 2:1 + exp |
| MSc Artificial Intelligence | PGT | 1 yr | ~£15,500/yr | 2:1 degree |
| MSc Petroleum Engineering | PGT | 1 yr | ~£20,000/yr | 2:1 Eng |
Fees are approximate GBP for an international student. Always verify directly with the institution.
💰 Scholarships & Funding
Merit Scholarship
Tuition fee discounts up to 25% for high achievers
Hardship Fund
Emergency financial support for enrolled students
2+2 Scholarship
2 years Dubai + 2 years Edinburgh – same degree
🌟 Student Life
Heriot-Watt Dubai is one of the most vibrant university communities in the UAE. 30+ student clubs, Watt Fest, Highland Games. Knowledge Park sits close to Media City and Internet City – outstanding proximity to major employers.
📋 Key Facts
AccreditationCAA UAE, KHDA 5-Star
QS Rank#287 globally
(home)
(home)
IntakeSept & January
IELTS UG6.0 min
IELTS PG6.5 min
Application FeeAED 300
Opened byKing Charles III, Nov 2023
💳 Cost of Living
AccommodationAED 2,200–4,500/mo
FoodAED 1,000–2,000/mo
Total (est.)~£1,100–1,900/mo
Estimates only. Costs vary by lifestyle.
📝 How to Apply
- Explore programmes at hw.ac.uk/dubai
- Apply online – AED 300 fee
- Accept offer – 10% deposit + AED 1,000 security
- University sponsors UAE student visa
- September or January intake
Ready to apply or have a question?
Visit the official university website or contact TNE Institute for guidance.