Are you an Indian student passionate about creativity, visual storytelling, and digital design? Dubai has emerged as one of the most attractive global destinations for studying graphic design – thanks to its booming creative industry, world-class universities, high-tech facilities, and strong job opportunities across media, advertising, branding, and digital marketing.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn everything about studying graphic design in Dubai for Indian students. Let’s get started!

Why Study Graphic Design in Dubai? (Top Benefits for Indian Students)

Dubai has transformed into a regional creative hub with global brands, design studios, and digital agencies setting up operations in the UAE. Here’s why Indian students are choosing Dubai for creative education:

1. Industry-Driven Curriculum

Dubai’s design programs focus on practical learning, real client briefs, portfolio development, and advanced software training (Adobe Creative Suite, 3D tools, UI/UX fundamentals).

2. High Employability in the UAE

Graphic designers are in demand across:

• Advertising agencies
  
• Digital marketing firms
  
• Media production houses
  
• Fashion & luxury brands
  
• Tech companies (UI/UX roles)
  
• Freelance creative markets
  

3. Easy Connectivity From India

Dubai is only 3–4 hours away from major Indian cities and offers multiple student-friendly visa pathways.

4. Multicultural Learning Environment

Campuses host students from 100+ nationalities, allowing excellent networking and global exposure.

5. Tax-Free Salaries After Graduation

UAE is a tax-free country, allowing creative professionals to earn high take-home salaries.

Top Graphic Design Colleges in Dubai for Indian Students (2025 List)

Below is a curated list of the best design colleges in Dubai, including fees, course types, and key highlights.

1. SAE Institute Dubai

Popular Course: Bachelor of Design (Graphics & Digital Media)
Duration: 3 Years
Fees: Approx. AED 75,000 per year (~₹17 lakh/year)
Why Choose SAE?

• Industry-standard studios
  
• Project-based training
  
• Advanced software labs
  
• Strong placement connections
  

2. University of Wollongong Dubai (UOWD)

Course: Bachelor of Media & Communication – Visual Communication
Duration: 3–4 Years
Fees: AED 18,000–20,000 per semester
Highlights:

• Accredited Australian degree
  
• Strong focus on design communication
  
• Internship opportunities
  

3. Canadian University Dubai (CUD)

Course: Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design
Duration: 4 Years
Fees: AED 66,000 per year (~₹14.5 lakh/year)
USP:

• North American curriculum
  
• Strong design foundation in typography, branding, and illustration
  

4. Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Course: BA (Hons) Graphic Design
Duration: 3 Years
Fees: AED 63,000 per year
Highlights:

• UK-based education system
  
• Creative studio workshops
  
• High-quality portfolio training
  

5. Dubai Institute of Design & Innovation (DIDI)

Course: Bachelor of Design (BDes)
Duration: 4 Years
Fees: AED 100,000 per year
Why It’s Unique:

• Designed with MIT & Parsons School of Design
  
• Cutting-edge labs
  
• Interdisciplinary curriculum
  

Graphic Design Course Fees in Dubai: Detailed Breakdown

Note: Fees vary depending on institute, facilities, software, and course level.

Graphic Design Diploma & Short-Term Courses in Dubai

For students who prefer short, practical, and job-ready training, the following options are popular:

1. Zabeel Institute

Course: Professional Diploma in Graphic Design
Duration: 3 Months
Fees: AED 3,500–5,000
Focus: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign

2. SAE Diploma in Graphic Design

Duration: 1 Year
Fees: AED 18,000+
Focus: Brand Identity, Typography, Digital Art

3. ASTI Academy

Course: Advanced Graphic Design Certification
Duration: 2–3 Months
Ideal for: Beginners, working professionals

Eligibility to Study Graphic Design in Dubai (Indian Students)

Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

• 10+2 (CBSE/ICSE/State board accepted)
  
• Minimum 55–60% aggregate
  
• Portfolio (required by most universities)
  
• English Proficiency:
  
  • IELTS 6.0 or
    
  • TOEFL 79+ (varies by university)
    

Diploma Requirements

• 10+2 completion
  
• Basic computer knowledge
  
• No IELTS required in most institutes
  

Documents Needed

• Passport
  
• Academic transcripts
  
• Portfolio / sample work
  
• Passport-size photos
  
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  
• Application form
  

Future Scope of Graphic Design in Dubai (Career & Salary)

Dubai’s creative and digital industries are expanding fast due to e-commerce growth, digital transformation, and global branding requirements.

Top Career Options

• Graphic Designer
  
• Visual Designer
  
• UI/UX Designer
  
• Brand Identity Designer
  
• Creative Strategist
  
• Motion Graphics Artist
  
• Digital Illustrator
  
• Art Director
  

Average Salaries in Dubai

The tax-free income further increases the take-home salary significantly.

Cost of Living in Dubai for Indian Students

Total Estimated Cost: AED 2,500–4,500/month
(₹56,000–1 lakh/month)

Student Visa for Indian Students

Dubai Student Visa Requirements

• Valid passport
  
• Offer letter from university
  
• Medical fitness test
  
• Biometrics
  
• Proof of funds
  
• Visa fee: AED 3,000–3,500
  

Visa validity is usually 1 year, renewed annually.

Degree vs Diploma vs Short Courses — Which Should You Choose?

Conclusion

Studying graphic design in Dubai for Indian students is an excellent opportunity to build a global creative career, gain international exposure, and learn in a city known for innovation and digital transformation. Whether you choose a Bachelor’s degree, a diploma, or a short-term certification, Dubai offers world-class education, strong job prospects, and a vibrant creative environment to nurture your talent.

If you’re passionate about design, branding, and creative storytelling — Dubai is the right place to begin your journey.

FAQs

1. Is Dubai good for studying graphic design?

Yes. Dubai offers top universities, advanced design labs, job opportunities, and high salary potential.

2. What is the cost of studying graphic design in Dubai?

Bachelor’s: AED 55,000–100,000/year
Diploma: AED 8,000–20,000
Short-term: AED 1,500–5,000

3. Do I need IELTS to study graphic design in Dubai?

For degree programs, most universities require IELTS 6.0.
Diploma and short courses usually don’t require IELTS.

4. What are the career opportunities after studying graphic design in Dubai?

You can work as a Graphic Designer, UI/UX Designer, Art Director, Visual Designer, or Motion Graphics Artist.

5. Is Dubai expensive for Indian students?

Living cost ranges between AED 2,500–4,500 per month, depending on lifestyle and accommodation.