What draws international students to the Middle East?
Although university life in the Middle East differs greatly from that in the west, students are keen to learn about other cultures.
According to Fazreen Razeek of Middle East education resource Edarabia, “Education” might not come to mind when you think of the Middle East. However, with the development of top-notch universities and the enrolment of international students from all over the world, the previous ten years have seen a significant shift.
With enrollment growth of 5% in Abu Dhabi and 4% in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates’ Abu Dhabi and Dubai have consistently led the development of private schools in the area. With consistent yearly growth, both cities account for 60% of the private K-12 market.
The Middle East is one of the places where international education is thought to be expanding the fastest, and the varied cultures of each nation expose students to opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have.
The large number of certified colleges that are among the best in the world attracts international students. Taking the American University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates as an example, more than 5,000 students enrol there each semester.
The many cultures of each country expose students to opportunities they might not otherwise have, and the Middle East is one of the regions where it is believed that international education is growing most quickly.
International students attend several accredited universities and colleges that rank among the best in the world. More than 5,000 students enrol each semester at the American University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates.
Universities in the Middle East
As of the middle of the 20th century, only 10 universities, all in the Middle East, were there. Since then, there has been phenomenal progress, with many nations prioritising student education. More recently, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz University, was named the top university in the Arab world.
It makes sense that the academic culture in the Middle East is very different from that in the West. Today’s kids, however, are eager to discover other customs and civilizations as well as to leave their own bubble and travel abroad.
In my opinion, these nations have more to offer than just what is available at their best colleges.
Middle Eastern universities are relatively new. They don’t follow conventions and are technology-driven and adaptable. Due to the top-tier colleges that offer high education standards and an environment where students may grow intellectually and socially, students are compelled to study in nations like the UAE, Egypt, Oman, and Lebanon.
Looking at NYU Abu Dhabi, it’s evident that they have left their stamp on education in the Middle East. They offer top-notch programmes and an equal level of education to their American counterparts.
Since its founding in 2010, NYUAD has published more articles than any other university in the UAE, and in the current academic year (2019–2020), it has more than 80 international PhD students enrolled. Each year, thousands of students are drawn to it by its legacy and accomplishments alone.
Away from the Gulf superpowers, Egypt ranks among the top 20 most desirable nations for international students, according to UNESCO figures.
Cairo University, the “top” public university in the nation, is the second-oldest college or university and has produced three Nobel laureates. CU is a good option for those who desire to study abroad because it combines interactive learning and information technology to prepare its students for the rapidly changing workforce.
The Middle East as a Hub for Culture and Education
These nations have more to offer than just what is available at the best colleges in them. Although the majority do offer opulent lifestyles, even trips to museums would not do these nations’ histories credit because they have such a rich heritage.
The Middle East is still developing as a significant force in the field of education. However, the majority are moving up the ranks swiftly. They are becoming known for their prowess in economics and science, making them an unstoppable force that should not be undervalued.
Regarding the author: Fazreen Razeek has worked in the digital sector for almost ten years and currently manages Edarabia’s digital accounts. He works with suppliers, event planners, and agencies to develop and implement their marketing strategies.
