Get ready for a journey you’ll never forget as you study abroad in Dubai. During your program, you’ll enroll as a student at the American University in Dubai (AUD), a globally known institution with more than 100 nationalities across the student body. When it comes to finding your footing, AUD has you covered. There is a welcome and orientation week for new students, allowing you to meet peers and learn your way around campus. Peer Advisors & Study Abroad Program Advisors also provide support with your social, academic, and extracurricular interests.
The excitement extends far beyond the classroom, with optional field trips to places like IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. In your free time, soak up the sun and desert warmth as you explore the souks for unique treasures or visit the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.
Study in the Heart of Dubai
Enroll at the renowned American University in Dubai (AUD).
Build Community with Local Students
Meet peers during the Welcome and Orientation Week for new students.
Learn Beyond the Classroom
Attend field trips to places like IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park.
Explore Like a Local
Visit iconic sites via Dubai's smooth public transit.
Make Global Connections
Meet fellow students from over 100 nationalities at AUD.
Fall 2026
Program Dates:
August 27 - December 19
Application Deadline:
Estimated Cost:
$
18,500
Program Advisor
Kate Gosson
Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted into your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!
For the aspiring global citizen, Dubai is the perfect way to live and immerse yourself in a rich culture. Known as a worldwide hub for multiple industries including business, tech, and media, the city is home to over 200 nationalities. Get ready to grow in cross-cultural communication as you live and learn like a local Emirati. Hop on the Dubai Metro to meet with friends and try the local cuisine. Or scope out some of the iconic sites like the Dubai Frame. From cultural activities like visiting the other Emirates, to outdoor adventures like a desert safari, there is truly something for everyone.
Experience the range of cultures in Dubai through food!
Dubai as a Launch Pad
Explore the other emirates and all the culture has to offer.
A Global Classroom
Live and learn in an international hub for tech, business, media and more.
Create Your Own Adventure
Trade the city views for desert safari or water sports at Jumeirah Beach.
Program Dates
Fall 2026
Program Dates:
August 27 - December 19
Application Deadline:
Academics
Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences.
Through our partnership with the American University in Dubai (AUD), We offer opportunities to explore business, engineering, architecture/design, as well as other topics, through an in-depth and hands-on approach. AUD's world-class professors and course options enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives each day while in class with students from the Emirates, Gulf region, and beyond.
Partner Institutions
American University in Dubai
American University in Dubai
Founded in 1995, The American University in Dubai (AUD) stands as a private, culturally and academically inclusive institution of higher learning, offering a globally recognized American education. Situated ideally in the heart of Dubai's creative hub, AUD holds a prominent position within the expansive business district of Dubai's Media and Internet City.
Our American University in Dubai Direct Enrollment program provides you with the opportunity to study at one of the most established international universities in the region, located in one of the fastest growing and developing cities in the world.
During your semester at AUD, you will enroll in 15 credits (usually 5 classes) from a strong list of disciplines. Robust offerings include:
Business
Engineering
Architecture/Design
The AUD Undergraduate Catalog provides course descriptions and includes prerequisites, and credit hours for each course.
NOTE: Courses are subject to change at the discretion of AUD.
2.75 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.75 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
Sophomore, junior, or senior standing when program begins. Some courses at local universities may not be open to sophomores. Please contact an IES Abroad Representative for further details
Submit Your Online Application
Applications may be considered after the published deadline on a space available basis. Please note that late applicants may be required to submit a non-refundable confirmation deposit upon acceptance in order to secure a place in the program. Please contact us with questions about applying after the deadline.
After your Online Application is processed, submit the following in your MyIESabroad account:
Home School Authorization — Your on-campus study abroad advisor can either complete the Home School Authorization electronically through IES Abroad’s PartnerPortal system, or by filling out the PDF form. Consult your study abroad advisor to determine how they would prefer to complete your Home School Authorization.
Official Transcript(s) — Submit transcripts for each college/university you have attended since high school. If you have multiple transcripts, IES Abroad will average the GPAs for all colleges/universities you have attended and use that cumulative GPA when reviewing your application. (Students attending higher education institutions outside of the U.S. must obtain a professional course-by-course transcript equivalency report. You may choose any organization that provides professional international transcript equivalencies.)
(If Applicable) English Language Proficiency Exam — Students attending higher education institutions outside of the U.S. may need to submit English language proficiency exam results. Contact your IES Abroad Representative for more information.
If your cumulative GPA is below 2.75, submit the following in your MyIESabroad account:
Professor Recommendation Letter — Although there is no length requirement, the recommendation must indicate a professor’s opinion of the applicant’s academic ability to pursue university-level coursework in a foreign country, in addition to any information that would help IES Abroad gain a better understanding of the applicant.
Personal Academic Essay — Although there is no length requirement, the essay must address your GPA, any particular academic challenges faced, reasons you chose this IES Abroad program, and how it fits into your academic career.
Passport & Visa Requirements
Renew (or Apply for!) Your Passport ASAP
Passport applications and renewals are taking longer than normal these days. Save yourself from the last-minute stress by making sure:
You have a passport
The expiration date is at least six months after your study abroad program ends
Visit travel.state.gov to locate U.S. passport agencies in your area.
Visa Requirements
The United Arab Emirates requires U.S. citizens to obtain a student visa before studying abroad for a semester or longer.
Located in the heart of Dubai's creative hub, The American University in Dubai (AUD) holds a prominent position within the expansive business district of Dubai's Media and Internet City. The one-million square foot campus is about the size of 18 football fields and offers everything students might need in one setting: Academic wings, student and faculty housing, indoor and outdoor sporting facilities, food courts, classrooms, labs, studios, and a 900-seat auditorium. With a representation of over 100 nationalities on campus, AUD is genuinely a globalized and diverse international higher education institution.
Housing
Residence Hall
Residence Hall
You will live in a double room within a same-gender residence hall on campus. Each room is furnished with two single beds, two wardrobes, two desks, two chairs, and two bedside tables. Each room has a private bathroom. Each bedroom will have A/C. No meals are provided, but you will share a fully equipped kitchen.
All residence halls are located within a 2–5-minute walk to the academic buildings, library, computer labs, cafeteria, a mini-mart, and sports facilities (basketball, tennis and volleyball courts, a soccer field and a swimming pool).
Field Trips
Even though your adventure starts in Dubai, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).
NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.
1 day ($)
Fall & Spring
Abu Dhabi Experience
On your day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), you will be immersed in the second-most populous city of UAE. Sights may include Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Ferrari World, and Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Hatta Adventures
1 day ($)
Fall & Spring
Our trip to Hatta Adventures offers students an abundance of outdoor activities within the terrain of the Hajar Mountains. Enjoy a full day of kayaking, hiking, biking, and more that Hatta has to offer!
Desert Safari & Heritage Village
1 day ($)
Fall & Spring
Join us for an exciting trip to the desert where we will go on a safari and visit Heritage Village, which recreates traditional Emirati life from the 1950s and 1960s!
Program Cost
Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.
Dubai Direct Enrollment - American University in Dubai Fees
Program Fee (invoiced by IES Abroad)
Tuition
$14,245
Base Housing (& Meals, if applicable) plus one of the following supplemental fees below:
$3,955
• Option 1: Residence Hall (no meals provided)
+$0
Health Insurance
$300
Total IES Abroad Program Fee (total dependent on housing option selected)
$18,500-$18,500
+
Fees for Special Options Associated with Tuition (invoiced by IES Abroad)
School of Record transcript (if required)
$475
Total Additional Fees
+
Additional Estimated Expenses for Student Budgeting Purposes (select those that apply; consulate fees may be subject to change)
AUD-Required health insurance
$440
Passport Deposit
$275
Visa Fee
$275
Round-Trip Airfare (varies with point of departure and carrier)
$900-1,100
Estimated Groceries for Duration of Program (varies by the number of meals included per week) Students in certain housing options may require less groceries based on personal preferences and number of meals included in meal plans
• Option 1: Residence Hall (no meals provided)
$1,240
Estimated Costs for Dining Out (based on one meal out per week) Students in certain housing options may require more meals out based on personal preferences and number of meals included in meal plans
$180
Rental or Purchase of Required Cell Phone (does not include usage fees)
$30-150
Local Transportation
$360
Optional IES Abroad Field Trips (not included in program fee)
$200
Personal Expenses (does not include personal student travel)
$3,600
Total Other Estimated Expenses
=
Total Estimated Budget
The amounts expressed above are in U.S. dollars
Estimated expenses are based on calculations and exchange rates at the time of printing
These expenses may vary due to individual needs, spending habits, and exchange rates, and are not included in the IES Abroad program fee
Estimated meal and grocery expenses are accessed from numbeo.com/cost-of-living/; costs of meals and groceries may vary based on your own spending habits
Personal expenses may include but are not limited to the following: additional meals/beverages (outside selected housing/meals option), taxis, social activities and entertainment, toiletries, and laundry
Some items such as textbooks may be billed separately by IES Abroad
The IES Abroad program fee does not include financial aid
Visa / Consular / Residency Fees
Depending on visa requirements related to certain program locations, length of term, and consular jurisdictions, students may also incur costs for expedited processing, predeparture travel to the consulate or for IES Abroad ACCeSS™ obtain their visa
These estimated fees apply to U.S. citizens. Non-U.S. citizens may have different requirements and costs
Cell Phone Usage
Cell phone usage fees are additional and on a per call basis, depending upon location
We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.
With 75 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in your program cost to highly trained local staff who can connect you with English-speaking healthcare providers, we work around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs
CISI International Health Insurance
In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.
24/7 Emergency Support
Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.
Mandatory Cell Phone Policy
Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.
Location-Specific Information
Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.
TripTracker System
Allowing you to share independent travel plans.
Crisis Drills
So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.
Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.
Students who wish to participate in an IES Abroad program will typically apply to both their college/university, as well as to IES Abroad. Start by visiting your school’s study abroad office website to learn more about their application process and deadlines. Note that some university’s deadlines can be as early as one year before your desired term abroad. After you have reviewed the process at your home school, start your online application on the IES Abroad website—there's no application fee! Once we create an account for you, we’ll then ask you to submit the required admissions forms in your MyIESabroad account. After we have received all of your materials, we will review your application and send you an admission decision via email.
As soon as you know you are interested in going abroad, begin applying for your passport. In order to go abroad, you’ll need to have a passport that is valid until at least six months after your program’s end date. For most of our programs, you will need your passport in-hand in order to apply for the required student visa. Rest assured, our IES Abroad Program Advisors will be available to help you every step of the way, but it’s in your best interest to start this process as soon as possible!
You can find a list of the potential courses and/or internship opportunities available for students to pursue under the Academics tab of your program page. Syllabi for each course can typically be found by clicking on the hyperlinked course title, which you can review with your on-campus advisors to ensure that you can earn credit and stay on track for graduation. If a part-time internship opportunity is available on your program and something you want to pursue, discuss the possibility of earning credit for this with your study abroad office on-campus.
You can apply for our IES Abroad Scholarships at any point before the deadline—even if you haven’t yet been admitted into one of our programs! Our scholarship opportunities are competitive, so it’s in your best interest to apply for our scholarships as early as possible. If you’d like to use your existing scholarships/aid towards your program fees, this will depend on your school’s policies and how you’re billed for the program. Talk to your school’s study abroad and financial aid office to learn their policies.
IES Abroad works as a partner to campus study abroad offices around the world to provide high quality academic programs for undergraduate students. In order to participate in one of our programs, we require that you gain approval from your home school’s study abroad office. While IES Abroad is here to help with your predeparture needs, you’ll also want to stay connected with your study abroad advisor on-campus to ensure you’re staying on track with their deadlines and aware of their policies for your program abroad.
The location of your courses will depend on the type of IES Abroad program that you select. Most IES Abroad programs are based at the IES Abroad Center in the host city. Our Centers are physical spaces within the city where we have staff offices and classrooms and they serve as the student hub for many of our programs. On these programs, your classmates will be other IES Abroad students from U.S. campuses and are taught by local or international professors. In some cases, it may also be possible to take one or two courses at a local university and the rest at the IES Abroad Center. Alternatively, some IES Abroad programs are direct enrollment programs, which means that you will take all of your classes at the local university alongside other students enrolled at that university.
IES Abroad places student health & safety at the forefront of all that we do. All IES Abroad students are required to be insured under our mandatory CISI health insurance policy, and this cost is factored into your program fees. Students will be expected to complete a physical within the six months prior to your departure so that our student affairs staff on-site have up-to-date information and can offer support for any health or medical needs you may have while abroad. Mental health services may be available for students upon request. Please discuss any specific health and safety needs with our Dean of Students’ office as early as possible. You can also read more information about our Health & Safety protocols (including COVID-19).
Our experienced housing coordinators work hard to screen and place students in IES Abroad housing, so you won’t need to find your housing on your own. Options can include homestays (highly rated!), residence halls, or apartments depending on your location. You will be given an opportunity to indicate any preferences you may have for housing once you are admitted into the program, which our staff will take into consideration to the best of their ability as they are making arrangements for students. While it’s not recommended, it is possible for you to arrange your own housing abroad if your home school approves you to do so.
Students who wish to participate in an IES Abroad program will typically apply to both their college/university, as well as to IES Abroad. Start by visiting your school’s study abroad office website to learn more about their application process and deadlines. Note that some university’s deadlines can be as early as one year before your desired term abroad. After you have reviewed the process at your home school, start your online application on the IES Abroad website—there's no application fee! Once we create an account for you, we’ll then ask you to submit the required admissions forms in your MyIESabroad account. After we have received all of your materials, we will review your application and send you an admission decision via email.
IES Abroad works as a partner to campus study abroad offices around the world to provide high quality academic programs for undergraduate students. In order to participate in one of our programs, we require that you gain approval from your home school’s study abroad office. While IES Abroad is here to help with your predeparture needs, you’ll also want to stay connected with your study abroad advisor on-campus to ensure you’re staying on track with their deadlines and aware of their policies for your program abroad.
As soon as you know you are interested in going abroad, begin applying for your passport. In order to go abroad, you’ll need to have a passport that is valid until at least six months after your program’s end date. For most of our programs, you will need your passport in-hand in order to apply for the required student visa. Rest assured, our IES Abroad Program Advisors will be available to help you every step of the way, but it’s in your best interest to start this process as soon as possible!
The location of your courses will depend on the type of IES Abroad program that you select. Most IES Abroad programs are based at the IES Abroad Center in the host city. Our Centers are physical spaces within the city where we have staff offices and classrooms and they serve as the student hub for many of our programs. On these programs, your classmates will be other IES Abroad students from U.S. campuses and are taught by local or international professors. In some cases, it may also be possible to take one or two courses at a local university and the rest at the IES Abroad Center. Alternatively, some IES Abroad programs are direct enrollment programs, which means that you will take all of your classes at the local university alongside other students enrolled at that university.
You can find a list of the potential courses and/or internship opportunities available for students to pursue under the Academics tab of your program page. Syllabi for each course can typically be found by clicking on the hyperlinked course title, which you can review with your on-campus advisors to ensure that you can earn credit and stay on track for graduation. If a part-time internship opportunity is available on your program and something you want to pursue, discuss the possibility of earning credit for this with your study abroad office on-campus.
IES Abroad places student health & safety at the forefront of all that we do. All IES Abroad students are required to be insured under our mandatory CISI health insurance policy, and this cost is factored into your program fees. Students will be expected to complete a physical within the six months prior to your departure so that our student affairs staff on-site have up-to-date information and can offer support for any health or medical needs you may have while abroad. Mental health services may be available for students upon request. Please discuss any specific health and safety needs with our Dean of Students’ office as early as possible. You can also read more information about our Health & Safety protocols (including COVID-19).
You can apply for our IES Abroad Scholarships at any point before the deadline—even if you haven’t yet been admitted into one of our programs! Our scholarship opportunities are competitive, so it’s in your best interest to apply for our scholarships as early as possible. If you’d like to use your existing scholarships/aid towards your program fees, this will depend on your school’s policies and how you’re billed for the program. Talk to your school’s study abroad and financial aid office to learn their policies.
Our experienced housing coordinators work hard to screen and place students in IES Abroad housing, so you won’t need to find your housing on your own. Options can include homestays (highly rated!), residence halls, or apartments depending on your location. You will be given an opportunity to indicate any preferences you may have for housing once you are admitted into the program, which our staff will take into consideration to the best of their ability as they are making arrangements for students. While it’s not recommended, it is possible for you to arrange your own housing abroad if your home school approves you to do so.
The academic portion of a semester abroad can be an involved yet rewarding experience. I found that planning ahead and consulting program resources have helped...
