Top Business Schools to Earn MBA in Dubai: Hult, DBS & more
In today’s fast-changing business world, getting a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is more than just earning a degree; it’s essential for anyone looking to advance in their career. An MBA teaches important skills like leadership, strategic planning, and understanding finances, making it a key step for anyone wanting to succeed in the corporate world. As more people seek quality business education, they turn to schools that offer strong and up-to-date programs.
Dubai has become a popular place for higher education, especially for business studies. The city’s business schools are known for offering top-notch MBA programs that keep up with the latest trends and demands in the industry.
In this article, we’ll look at the top business schools in Dubai and see what makes their MBA programs stand out.
Hult International Business School
Hult International Business School, located in Dubai Internet City, U.A.E., is recognized as a leading institution for business education globally, with additional campuses in Boston, San Francisco, London, and other major cities.
Consistently ranked among the top business schools by esteemed publications like Financial Times, The Economist, Forbes, and Bloomberg Businessweek, Hult is celebrated for its innovative and practical approach to education. The school is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Association of MBAs (AMBA), and EQUIS, ensuring its programs meet high international standards.
Hult offers a range of MBA specializations including Finance, Marketing, and Business Analytics, with flexible program structures that cater to both full-time and part-time students. The curriculum is designed to provide hands-on experience and real-world application, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the global business environment.
With a strong focus on diversity and a robust network of industry connections, Hult stands out for its commitment to transforming students into capable and confident business leaders.
Program Details
MBA Specializations in Finance, Marketing, Family Business, Entrepreneurship, Business Analytics, Project Management.
Program Structure:
- Full-time Global One-Year MBA: A one-year intensive program available on campuses including Dubai.
- Global Executive MBA: A two-year part-time program suitable for professionals.
- Global One-Year MBA with Analytics (STEM MBA): Focused on analytics, offered full-time across multiple campuses.
Offers flexibility with global campus rotation and emphasises practical skills and real-world challenges.
Admissions Requirements
Entry Criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Minimum of three years’ work experience
- Proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS)
Application Process: Online application with multiple deadlines throughout the year.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Cost:
- Global Executive MBA: AED 304,000
- Full-time One-Year MBA: AED 299,000
Additional Costs: Include housing, living expenses, and materials.
Scholarships: Available based on merit, rewarding various achievements and potential.
Contact Details
Location: Dubai Internet City
Telephone: +971-4-427-5800
Dubai Business School (DBS)
Dubai Business School (DBS) is part of the University of Dubai. DBS is dedicated to providing world-class education and preparing students to excel in a rapidly changing global business environment. The school emphasizes practical learning through experiential methods, case studies, and simulations, ensuring students are equipped to tackle 21st-century challenges.
With a strong affiliation with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and a broad network of industry partners and alumni, DBS offers a dynamic educational experience that is both innovative and grounded in real-world applications. The school is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a testament to its high standards and commitment to excellence in business education.
Dubai Business School stands out for its comprehensive and practical approach to business education, preparing students to meet the demands of the global business world. With a diverse student body and a strong network of industry connections, DBS provides a supportive and enriching environment for future business leaders.
Program Details
MBA Specializations:
- General MBA
- MBA in Finance and Accounting
- MBA in Human Resource Management and Leadership
- MBA in International Business and Marketing
- MBA in Operations and Logistics Management
Program Structure:
- General MBA: This program includes ten sessions per term, each lasting 4 hours and 30 minutes. The structure is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of key business disciplines.
- Double Major MBA: An option for professionals with at least two years of work experience, offering additional terms to specialize in two fields.
The curriculum includes a strong focus on experiential learning and real-world applications, with core courses covering a range of business management areas.
Admissions Requirements
Entry Criteria:
- Regular Admission: Requires an accredited bachelor’s degree in business with a minimum GPA of 3.0, and proficiency in English (EmSAT 1400, Academic IELTS 6.0, or equivalent).
- Conditional Admission: Available for those with a GPA of 2.0–2.9, requiring lower English proficiency scores (EmSAT 1250, Academic IELTS 5.5, or equivalent).
The MBA program is suited for recent graduates seeking to enhance their career prospects, working professionals aiming to advance or shift their careers, and individuals interested in gaining comprehensive business management skills.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Cost:
- General MBA: Tuition is AED 100,800 for international students and 286,650 AED for domestic students.
- Double Major MBA: Involves additional costs for extra terms.
Additional Costs: Include housing, living expenses, and academic materials.
Scholarships: Various merit-based scholarships are available to recognize and support outstanding students.
Contact Details
Location: Dubai Business School, University of Dubai, Academic City
Telephone: +971-4-556-6800
SP Jain School of Global Management
SP Jain School of Global Management, established in 2004, has rapidly emerged as a top-tier institution for business education, with a strong emphasis on global learning and multicultural exposure. Located in Dubai International Academic City (DIAC), SP Jain provides an innovative and stimulating environment that fosters excellence and well-being among students.
The campus spread over 60,000 square feet, is part of one of the largest educational hubs in the world. SP Jain is renowned for its dynamic and flexible learning approach, offering a wide range of MBA programs that integrate classroom learning with real-world business challenges across different cities.
The school is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and the Association of MBAs (AMBA), ensuring that its programs meet the highest international standards.
Program Details
MBA Specializations:
- Global Finance
- Consulting Management
- Contemporary Marketing Management
- Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Technology Management
Program Structure:
- Global MBA: A full-time, one-year program that takes place across Sydney, Dubai, and Singapore, providing a comprehensive global business education.
- MBA in Business Analytics: A partnership program with the Illinois Institute of Technology, offering a mix of online and on-campus courses.
- Executive MBA (Online): A flexible, part-time program designed for working professionals, available in an online format.
Programs are designed to be completed in 12 to 30 months, with an emphasis on practical skills, leadership, and global business practices. The curriculum includes mandatory industry projects and a multi-city learning model, enhancing students’ exposure to diverse business environments.
Admissions Requirements
Entry Criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Minimum of three years work experience
- Average GMAT score of 666
Application Process: Online application with multiple intakes throughout the year, including October for the Global MBA.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Cost:
- Global MBA: AUD 47,000 for a 12-month program.
- MBA in Business Analytics: Tuition is 1,486,800 INR.
Additional Costs: Include living expenses, travel for the multi-city program, and academic materials.
Scholarships: SP Jain offers various merit-based scholarships, including a special Returning Mother’s Scholarship and Diversity Scholarships, aimed at supporting outstanding and underrepresented candidates.
Contact Details
Location: Dubai International Academic City, Dubai, U.A.E.
Telephone: +971-4-556-6800
London Business School
London Business School (LBS), with its campus located in the bustling Dubai International Financial Centre, offers a unique blend of online and campus-based learning designed to meet the needs of today's global business environment. Since its establishment in 2007, LBS has built a strong reputation for delivering world-class education and has been awarded Institutional Licensure and Programme Accreditation for its Executive MBA by the United Arab Emirates’ Ministry of Education.
LBS’s presence in Dubai, alongside its other campuses, provides access to a diverse network of leaders and organisations, ensuring that students gain critical skills and insights needed for success in the international business landscape.
Program Details
MBA Specializations:
- General MBA
- Executive MBA
- One-year MBA
Program Structure:
- Executive MBA: This program, offered in Dubai, is tailored for experienced professionals and integrates flexible learning with cutting-edge research. It allows students to study while working, offering modules that build global business skills and leadership capabilities.
- Two-year General MBA: Based in London, this program offers an extensive curriculum with over 100 electives and flexible exit points, providing students with a deep understanding of business fundamentals and practical experience.
- One-year MBA: Designed for professionals with a master’s degree or equivalent, this program allows students to complete their MBA in just 11 months, focusing on core business courses and elective specialisations.
Admissions Requirements
Entry Criteria:
- Executive MBA: Requires significant professional experience, with an average of 13 years of work experience among participants.
- General MBA: Requires an undergraduate degree and a minimum of six years’ work experience, with an average GMAT score around 680.
- One-year MBA: Available to candidates with a master’s degree or equivalent and at least three years’ post-graduate work experience.
Application Process: Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis, with deadlines specific to each program intake. Applicants are encouraged to submit GMAT or GRE scores, professional references, and essays.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Cost:
- Executive MBA: Specific tuition for the Dubai program is provided on request.
- General MBA: Tuition for the 2024 intake is £115,000, which covers the entire 15–21 month program.
- One-year MBA: Tuition for the 2025 intake is estimated at £75,000.
Additional Costs: Include travel expenses for global experiences, living expenses, and a Student Association Fee of £360.
Scholarships: LBS offers a variety of scholarships to attract and support talented individuals, including merit-based and external scholarships.
Contact Details
Location: Dubai International Financial Centre
Telephone: +971 4 401 9343 | +971 4 401 9301
Bayes Business School
Bayes Business School, formerly known as Cass Business School, is a prestigious institution located in the heart of London, a global financial capital. Bayes offers a comprehensive range of MBA programs tailored to meet the needs of professionals at different stages of their careers.
The school is known for its unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, and it holds the prestigious 'triple crown' accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. With a campus in Dubai and a strong global presence, Bayes Business School provides an exceptional educational experience that prepares students to excel in the international business landscape.
Program Details
MBA Specializations:
- Full-time MBA
- Executive MBA (London)
- Global MBA (Online)
Program Structure:
- Full-time MBA: A 12-month program based in London, ideal for early-career professionals looking to accelerate their career or pivot to new opportunities. The program includes integrated learning experiences, international consultancy trips, and a wide range of elective concentrations.
- Executive MBA: A part-time, 20-month program for mid-career professionals aiming to advance to senior leadership roles. Classes are held on-campus in London, either in the evening or during long weekends.
- Global MBA: A flexible, two-year part-time program delivered online, suitable for experienced managers and professionals seeking to develop their business acumen and leadership skills from anywhere in the world.
Bayes’ MBA programs emphasize practical application and immersive learning. The programs are designed to help students apply new theories immediately, gain hands-on experience, and build a robust network of industry contacts.
Admissions Requirements
Entry Criteria:
- Full-time MBA: Requires an undergraduate degree, a minimum of three years’ professional experience, and a competitive GMAT or GRE score.
- Executive MBA: Requires a minimum of four years’ full-time professional experience and a strong professional background.
- Global MBA: Requires several years of management experience and a commitment to pursuing career advancement or entrepreneurship.
Application Process: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with specific intakes for each program. Prospective students must submit a CV, professional references, and essays outlining their career goals.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Cost:
- Full-time MBA: £115,000 for the 2024 intake, covering the 15-21 month program.
- Executive MBA: Tuition fees are available upon request for the Dubai and London programs.
- Global MBA: Fees for the online program are structured to provide flexibility and affordability.
Additional Costs: Include travel expenses for international study trips, living expenses in London or Dubai, and a Student Association Fee of £360.
Scholarships: Bayes offers a range of scholarships to support talented candidates, including merit-based awards and external scholarships.
Contact Details
Location: Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Gate Village, Building 2, Level 3
Telephone: +971 4 401 9316
Pursuing an MBA in Dubai provides a unique blend of world-class education, practical experience, and cultural diversity, positioning graduates for success in the global business landscape.
These schools offer innovative and flexible programs, through which students can find the right fit to achieve their career goals and make a significant impact in their chosen fields.