INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
DCT encourages applications from international students from around the world.
Currently, the DCT student body consists of more than 25 nationalities which helps to create its unique diverse and dynamic learning environment reflective of the industry sectors taught.
Live, learn and thrive in the heart of a world-leading tourism destination, which is also one of the world's safest cities.
The city is even more student friendly thanks to recent legislative changes that offer extended study and post-graduation visas in addition to the regular one-year renewable student visa.
There is a lot to explore and do when studying in Dubai
When you study in Dubai, you are spoilt for choice because there’s so much to explore and do.
Once a small fishing village in the Arabian Gulf, Dubai is today one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Home to nearly 200 nationalities, it offers a truly memorable experience to visitors and residents. Whether it is by the banks of the Creek, or at the top of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, Dubai lives and breathes a sense of possibility and innovation. And with an unparalleled coastline, beautiful desert and magnificent cityscapes, memories are just waiting to be made here.
Where to stay
Choosing a place to stay can be both exciting and daunting at the same time.
Online property portals such as bayut.com, propertyfinder.com and dubai.dubizzle.com are helpful resources with up-to-date listings and area guides.
There are plenty of real estate brokers in Dubai who can also offer assistance in finding student accommodation.
DCT is located within a 5-10 minute walk of the Dubai World Trade Centre so it is worth choosing a place to stay that is within close proximity to a metro station.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Accommodation - University Residences provide students in Dubai a safe, secure and affordable place to live. Please visit this link for more information: https://www.dsoa.ae/explore-dso/live-at-dso/university-residence
A useful guide to neighbourhoods in Dubai can be found here. Link to: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/explore-dubai/dubai-neighbourhoods
Getting around Dubai
Getting around in Dubai is convenient, safe and comfortable.
By foot
The winter months in the UAE are ideal for walking and enjoying a stroll in the city. Meander along the Marina boardwalk or experience authentic Emirati life at Al Seef, where you can wander through the traditional neighbourhood and get a taste of old Dubai.
By bike
There are plenty of locations across Dubai for cycling enthusiasts. There are a number of professional tracks for serious cyclists, but you can also explore and get around by renting a bike. Look for Careem BIKE stands across key neighbourhoods such as Downtown and Dubai Marina, as well as Dubai Metro stations. You'll need to download the mobile app to get started but one-day rentals start from just AED20, so it's a fun way to explore Dubai’s various neighbourhoods.
Similarly, BYKY Stations can also be found at parks and neighbourhoods in the city. All you have to do is go to a station and choose your bike or e-scooter – prices start from AED20. Rental charges can be made via credit card, and you're free to pedal away – just remember to return your bike on time.
Public Transport
Bus: Major bus routes operate from around 5am to 11.30pm, with some high demand routes running 24/7.
Taxi: Government-registered Dubai Taxi cabs are plentiful and can be hailed on the street or booked via the RTA free S'hail app. Taxis are metered and air-conditioned, with cash or card payments accepted.
Dubai Metro: An advanced, driverless metro bisects the city, with stations close to major attractions, commercial centres, and at Dubai International Airport.
Dubai Tram: The Dubai Tram system links up with Dubai Metro stations and covers Dubai Media City, Dubai Knowledge Village, Dubai Marina, and up to the Palm Monorail.
Make your journey across the city smoother with these apps: Ride-sharing app Careem allows you to book Hala taxis, while the official Dubai Metro app shares station info and train times to streamline your next journey. You can also download the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) app, which shares information on bus station locations, and public transportation schedules.
The application process for students living outside the UAE is as follows:
Step 1: DCT Online Application Form
Provide your personal details such as your name, age, contact information and nationality. You will also need to select the certificate programme you want to study: tourism, hospitality, events or culinary arts.
(Please note all students must complete the certificate programme before progressing to the Advanced Diploma)
There is NO fee to apply!
Tip: Be sure your contact details are correct so we can inform you about the progress of your application.
Step 2: Complete a Phone/Online Video Interview and Assessment
Phone/Online Video motivation interviews will be scheduled with a member of the admissions team. International students will additionally undertake a basic numeracy and English assessment online.
Step 3: Accept Offer & Pay Fee
If you are accepted into the college you will receive an offer letter. Your place will only be reserved and confirmed once you have accepted the offer online, paid full fees (including visa fees) and been issued your visa. If your visa is rejected by immigration, DCT reserves the right to revoke the offer and will refund you full fees excluding visa fees.
Fees & Payment Details:
International students are required to pay the course fees in full before the start of the academic year.
The college starts the visa process for international students once they have accepted their offer to join a programme of study at DCT and paid their acceptance deposit.
Once their visa application has been accepted, international students are then required to pay the full course fee plus visa fee of AED 5,200 in order to receive their visa and enter the country.
Please note that any student that requires a student visa from the college (even if already in Dubai as a non-resident) is considered to be an international student. For more information on the visa process, click here.
- International students must be at least 18 years old.
- DCT does not provide any accommodation or sustenance.
- Students on a DCT visa are able to work part time providing the timings do not interfere with college hours. DCT will issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to allow students to work.
- DCT follows its Admissions Policy for all applications. It is an inclusive institution open to all candidates that pass the entry requirements. Places are given on a first come, first served basis.
- DCT guarantees students an internship (not paid) but cannot guarantee a permanent job upon graduation.
Certificate in Hospitality
Sophia Baeva
“When I think of hospitality, I think of Dubai. When I was faced with the question of where I see myself in the future and then doing the research of universities, I finally found the most suitable one - Dubai College of Tourism. First of all, DCT gives you a high quality education, but it's not only about educational process itself. You become a part of DCT's family, you're involved in every process, from Social Media to the organization of events in the college. It's hard to find your path in life, but I finally found mine.”
Certificate in Hospitality
Ibon Arrieta
"Not only does DCT teach me how to get on in the hospitality industry, but it also teaches me how to learn in a different and practical way, how to manage my time to work in teams and perhaps most significantly, this new experience is teaching me how to manage a new life in a new city full of new friends and to build a network that will enable me to have a successful future in the UAE."
NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR
SEPTEMBER 2025