Medicine Studies in UAE for International Students
When it comes to chasing your medical dreams, the UAE rolls out the red carpet for international students. The country has two main types of medical degrees you can aim for: MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) and MD (Doctor of Medicine). The MBBS takes you on a five to six-year ride, while the MD squeezes the journey into four years.
Degree | Duration | Eligibility |
---|---|---|
MBBS | 5-6 years | High school diploma with pre-medical courses |
MD | 4 years | Bachelor’s degree, age under 30 |
The UAE boasts a lineup of top-notch campuses like Khalifa University and the University of Sharjah. These places are decked out with the latest facilities and ready to mold you into a medical pro ready to take on the world. Expect to get your hands dirty while learning, thanks to practical internships and clinical rotations thrown into the mix.
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Read also: Strategies to Study in UAE for Free : Elevate Your Future
Medicine Studies in UAE for International Students
So, you’re thinking about tackling a medical program in the UAE? Here are the must-haves to get your foot in the door:
- Age Requirements: Grab your future by the reigns once you hit 18. If you’re aiming for an MD, keep in mind the 30-year age cutoff (Gyanberry).
- Educational Qualifications: For MBBS, you’ll need a high school diploma plus some pre-medical courses under your belt. MD prospects, bring along your bachelor’s degree (Gyanberry).
- Standardized Testing: Keep your wits sharp for EmSAT (Emirates Standardized Test), assessing your smarts in math, biology, chemistry, and physics.
- Application Process: UAE locals might use NAPO, but international students apply directly to your chosen campus (Gyanberry). Hit the web pages of places like Khalifa University or the University of Sharjah to apply.
Requirement | MBBS | MD |
---|---|---|
Age | Minimum 18 years | Maximum 30 years |
Educational Qualification | High school diploma with pre-med courses | Bachelor’s degree |
Standardized Testing | EmSAT | EmSAT |
Application Process | Direct application to university | Direct application to university |
If this all sounds like a lot, relax. Check in with study abroad consultants in UAE for a bit of wisdom on how to navigate the admissions maze, prep for tests, and ease into your new academic life in the UAE.
Read also: Persuasive Arguments for Studying in UAE
Table of Contents
Top Medical Universities in the UAE
Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi
Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi is leading the charge with its first-of-its-kind medical college in these parts. It offers a jam-packed four-year MD program that doesn’t just stop at books, it’s got the real deal with hands-on clinical and research experiences. Students get access to top-of-the-line facilities and a curriculum that’s all about mixing smarts with real-world know-how.
Key Highlights:
- Program: 4-year MD program
- Focus: Integrated clinical and research experience
- Location: Abu Dhabi
University of Sharjah
Over at the University of Sharjah, they’ve cooked up a pretty solid medical education setup too, throwing down a six-year MBBS program. It’s five years of hitting the books, followed by a year in the trenches of clinical practice. Plus, with specialties in Dental Medicine, Health Sciences, and Pharmacy, there’s no shortage of paths to choose from.
Key Highlights:
- Program: 6-year MBBS program
- Disciplines: Dental Medicine, Health Sciences, and Pharmacy
- Study Duration: 5 years of training + 1 year of clinical practice
- Location: Sharjah

Ajman University Ranking in QS 2022
Ajman University holds its own ranked ninth-best in the UAE according to QS Rankings 2022, offering a collection of medical programs. Here, they’re all about the six-year MBBS degree alongside training for Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy. Practical training and research are high on their menu.
Key Highlights:
- Rank: 9th in the UAE (QS Rankings 2022)
- Program: 6-year MBBS degree
- Disciplines: Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy
- Location: Ajman
Read also: MBZUAI Research Internship Program
Comparison of Medical Programs
If you’re itching to study medicine in the UAE for international students, here’s something to help make sense of it all: a straightforward comparison down below to guide your choice.
University | Program Length | Key Features | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Khalifa University | 4 years | Integrated clinical and research focus | Abu Dhabi |
University of Sharjah | 6 years | Includes 1 year of clinical practice | Sharjah |
Ajman University | 6 years | Strong in practical training and research | Ajman |