The United Arab Emirates has rapidly emerged as a beacon of educational excellence in the Middle East, particularly in medical education. With state-of-the-art facilities, internationally accredited programs, and a commitment to cutting-edge research, medical universities in the UAE represent an attractive choice for aspiring healthcare professionals from around the globe. These institutions offer a unique blend of traditional knowledge and innovative practice, set in a culturally diverse environment that enriches both personal and professional growth. Students benefit from exposure to a wide range of health issues and patient demographics that are essential for a well-rounded medical education.
Moreover, the strategic location of the UAE allows for easy access to professional networks and career opportunities across the Middle East and beyond. Engaging in medical studies here means not just learning how to be an excellent practitioner, but also understanding the broader global context of healthcare challenges and innovations.
Average Cost of MBBS / MD for International Students in UAE:
The typical yearly tuition for MBBS/MD programs in the UAE is approximately AED 133,460. This amount covers only the tuition fees and does not include additional living expenses. Here are the specific tuition fees charged by leading medical universities in the UAE:
| University | Annual Tuition (AED) |
|---|---|
| University of Sharjah | 118,300 |
| Ajman University | 121,000 |
| Gulf Medical University | 147,000 |
| Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences | 160,000 |
| Ras al-Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University | 121,000 |
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU)
UAEU is one of the top medical universities in the UAE, ranked within the 301-350 range by Times Higher Education (THE) rankings. Its College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) is renowned for offering high-quality medical education.
Background and Accreditations:
- Accredited by the General Medical Council (UK), World Health Organization (WHO), and various American and Canadian medical organizations.
- Comprises 15 departments, including Anatomy, Public Health, Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, Surgery, and Radiology.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
- Postgraduate degrees and diplomas in various medical specialties
- Elective medical program
Curriculum Highlights:
- Emphasizes doctor-patient relationships, medical knowledge, interpersonal and communication skills, practice-based learning, and patient care.
- Integrates biological and clinical scientific research.
Admission Requirements:
- Grade 12 certificate or equivalent.
- EmSAT English score of 1250 or Academic IELTS score of 5.5.
- TOEFL IBT score of 525 or ITP score of 525.
*Please note there can be additional requirements based on your chosen course.
Notable Achievements and Facilities:
- State-of-the-art campus with cutting-edge research centers, labs, and instructional technology.
- Opportunity for students to collaborate with internationally renowned research faculty.
- Partnerships and collaborations with international institutions.
Location: Al Ain
Contact: 800-8238
Ajman University
Ajman University is a leading comprehensive institution in the Gulf region, offering a wide range of academic programs, including the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) through its College of Medicine (AUCoM), established in 2018.
Background and Accreditations:
- AUCoM aims to be a national and international leader in medicine, medical education, research, and service delivery.
- The college is committed to contributing to the UAE's pursuit of excellence and regional leadership in healthcare.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) - 6-year full-time program, consisting of one year of Foundation and five years of medical studies.
Curriculum Highlights:
- Emphasis on developing scientific knowledge, clinical skills, and ethical conduct.
- Commitment to fostering lifelong learning, research, and service excellence.
- The goal of establishing a premier College of Medicine to prepare outstanding, socially responsible physicians.
Admission Requirements:
- Secondary School Diploma.
- Transcript of grades.
- English proficiency scores: IELTS 6.0, TOEFL 550, or EmSAT 1100.
- EmSAT Arabic score of at least 800.
- Study of physics, biology, and chemistry.
- Copy of valid passport.
- Certificate of good character.
Notable Features:
- Proximity to Khalifa Hospital, providing opportunities for clinical experience in a hospital setting.
- State-of-the-art facilities and resources.
- Commitment to developing a model healthcare delivery system for the nation and the region.
Location: University Street, Al Jurf 1, Ajman
Contact: +971-6-748-2222
Gulf Medical University
GMU is one of the largest private medical universities in the UAE, located in Ajman. Established in 1998, it offers a wide range of medical and healthcare programs through its six colleges - Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Health Sciences, Nursing, and Healthcare Management & Economics.
Background and Accreditations:
- GMU is situated within the Thumbay Medicity complex, which includes a cutting-edge research center, laboratories, and buildings.
- The university houses the Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, focused on diabetes and cancer research.
Programs Offered (College of Medicine):
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) - 5-year program.
- Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences.
- Associate Degree in Pre-clinical Sciences.
- Doctor of Medicine.
- Master in Public Health.
- Master in Health Profession Education.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Precision Medicine.
Other Colleges:
- College of Dentistry: Bachelor of Dental Surgery, Master's programs.
- College of Pharmacy: Doctor of Pharmacy, Master's programs.
- College of Health Sciences: Bachelor's programs in Physiotherapy, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Medical Imaging Sciences, Anesthesia Technology.
- College of Nursing: Bachelor's programs in Nursing.
- College of Healthcare Management & Economics: Bachelor's and Master's programs.
Curriculum Highlights:
- MBBS program fosters collaboration, scientific inquiry, and lifelong learning.
- Covers ambulatory, in-patient care, and emergency settings to build practical skills.
Admission Requirements:
- High School Transcript.
- Required subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and English.
- Equivalency Certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education.
- English proficiency scores. (EmSAT, IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
- Arabic proficiency.
- Good Conduct Certificate.
- Medical Fitness Certificate.
Notable Features:
- State-of-the-art facilities and resources within the Thumbay Medicity complex.
- Focus on medical education, healthcare, and research.
Location: Rashid Al-Khadar Street, Al Jurf 1, Ajman
Contact: +971-6-743-1333
Khalifa University
Khalifa University is a top-ranked institution in Asia, establishing Abu Dhabi's first medical college. It offers a four-year MD program that provides integrated clinical and research experience.
Programs Offered:
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) - 4-year program.
Curriculum Highlights:
- The MD program aims to develop ten key competencies in graduates:
- Patient care.
- Knowledge for practice.
- Practice-based learning and improvement.
- Interpersonal and communication skills.
- Professionalism.
- Systems-based practice.
- Inter-professional collaboration.
- Personal and professional development.
- Technology-enhanced healthcare.
- Social accountability.
- The College of Medicine and Health Sciences also offers a non-degree Pre-Medicine Bridge Program for bachelor's degree holders to prepare for the MD program.
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree (STEM discipline) from an accredited university.
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a Science GPA of 3.0.
- MCAT score of at least 500.
- English proficiency scores: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 90, or EmSAT English 1550.
- Subject prerequisites: General Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry or Organic Chemistry with Biochemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.
- Reference letters.
- CV.
- Personal statement.
Research Focus:
- Khalifa University has strengths in research areas such as biomaterials for nanomedicine, bio-robotics, cellular biomechanics, bioinformatics, tissue regeneration, and medical genetics.
Notable Features:
- Aims to improve healthcare in Abu Dhabi, the UAE, and the surrounding regions.
- Provides integrated clinical and research experiences for students.
Location: Al Saadat Street, Zone 1, Abu Dhabi
Contact: +971-2-312-3888
University of Sharjah
Established in 1997, the University of Sharjah is located in University City, Sharjah, with campuses across the emirate. It offers medical education through the College of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, College of Dental Medicine, and College of Pharmacy.
Programs Offered (College of Medicine):
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) - 6-year program. (1 foundation year, 5 regular years, 1 clinical practice year)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Medicine and Translational Research.
- Master of Science in Molecular Medicine and Translational Research.
- Master in Leadership on Health Professions Education.
- Master of Science in Diabetes Management.
- Postgraduate Diploma in Ultrasound Technology Applications.
College of Health Sciences:
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics.
- Environmental Health Sciences.
- Health Services Administration.
- Medical Diagnostic Imaging.
- Medical Laboratory Sciences.
- Nursing.
- Physiotherapy.
College of Dental Medicine:
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery.
- Master of Dental Surgery in Oral Surgery, Prosthodontics, Periodontology, and Endodontics.
College of Pharmacy:
- Bachelor of Pharmacy.
- Master in Pharmaceutical Sciences.
- Doctor of Pharmacy.
Admission Requirements:
- GPA of at least 2.5 out of 4.0 in secondary education from a UAE Ministry of Education-approved program.
- Completion of two courses each in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Copy of student passport.
- English Language Proficiency Certificate.
- Health Fitness Certificate.
- Copy of Good Conduct Certificate.
- EmSAT Arabic score of 800.
Notable Features:
- Contributes to comprehensive and multidisciplinary education and research.
- Campuses across the Sharjah emirate for community-based training programs.
Location: University City Road, Sharjah
Contact: +971-6-558-5000
The medical universities in the UAE showcase the nation's unwavering commitment to fostering a healthcare system that meets global standards. As the demand for skilled healthcare professionals continues to rise, these universities play a crucial role in nurturing talent and driving advancements in the field. With their state-of-the-art facilities, diverse program offerings, and emphasis on practical training, they equip students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical values necessary to navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry. As you embark on this journey, remember that the pursuit of knowledge in the medical field is not just a career choice but a calling to improve lives and contribute to the well-being of society.
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