Heriot-Watt University’s Dubai campus is home to one of the most flexible and globally recognized MBA programs in the United Arab Emirates: the Edinburgh Business School MBA. As of 2025, this UK-accredited degree continues to attract working professionals from across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia due to its affordability, flexibility, and academic rigor. The program is part of the prestigious Edinburgh Business School (EBS), the graduate school of business at Heriot-Watt University, which is headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Established in Dubai in 2005, Heriot-Watt’s campus in Dubai Knowledge Park has developed into a respected center of postgraduate business education. The EBS MBA in Dubai is structured for ambitious professionals who want to earn a reputable UK MBA while managing work and family responsibilities. Whether studying part-time or full-time, the program empowers students with analytical, strategic, and managerial skills needed in today’s global business environment.
University Overview and International Accreditation
Founded in 1821, Heriot-Watt University is one of the oldest institutions in the UK, known for its emphasis on industry engagement, innovation, and practical education. The Edinburgh Business School MBA is offered in over 160 countries and has taught over 20,000 students globally. The program in Dubai is delivered with the same curriculum, standards, and award as in Edinburgh.
The Dubai campus is licensed by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), and the MBA degree is globally recognized. The university also holds accreditation from various UK and international quality assurance agencies.
This makes the Heriot-Watt EBS MBA one of the most accessible and credible options for professionals seeking career development without leaving the UAE.
Program Structure and Flexibility
One of the unique features of the EBS MBA is its exceptional flexibility. It is offered in three formats:
Part-time (Modular): Ideal for working professionals who can attend weekend classes.
Full-time: A 12-month intensive program for fresh graduates or those on a career break.
Online/Distance Learning: Globally accessible, self-paced learning with optional local classes.
The MBA program consists of seven core courses and two electives. Students can start at any time of the year, progress at their own pace, and complete the program within 2 to 7 years.
This modular structure allows students to balance work, study, and personal life. Exams are held quarterly and can be taken in Dubai or at designated centers worldwide.
Core Courses and Specializations
The core curriculum of the Heriot-Watt MBA is designed to provide a deep foundation in essential business disciplines:
Organizational Behaviour
Economics for Business
Financial Decision Making
Marketing
Accounting
Project Management
Strategic Planning
After completing core subjects, students can choose from a wide range of electives such as:
Entrepreneurship
Human Resource Management
Negotiation
Mergers & Acquisitions
Digital Marketing
Leadership Theory and Practice
Each course is assessed through a rigorous three-hour examination and supported by online resources, faculty interaction, and printed course materials. All courses are taught by UK-qualified professors or industry experts with global experience.
Admissions Requirements
Admission into the EBS MBA program in Dubai is straightforward but academically driven. The university seeks candidates who can handle academic pressure and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.
Minimum entry requirements:
A recognized undergraduate degree (bachelor’s level)
At least two years of work experience (for part-time or executive learners)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent if previous education was not in English)
Applicants without a formal degree may be considered through an alternative route based on professional qualifications and experience
Prospective students must complete an online application, submit academic and professional documentation, and may be called for an interview.
Tuition Fees and Payment Plans
The Edinburgh Business School MBA at Heriot-Watt University Dubai is considered one of the most cost-effective UK MBAs in the UAE. For the 2025 intake:
Tuition per course (including exams and materials): Approx. AED 6,300
Total for 9 courses: AED 56,700 – AED 58,000 (subject to annual revision)
Students can pay per course, making the program financially manageable. There are no hidden fees, and all materials are included. Scholarships and discounts are available for high-performing applicants or corporate groups.
Flexible payment plans are offered through the university, allowing students to begin studies with minimal upfront cost.
Faculty and Learning Environment
The Dubai campus offers a professional and modern learning environment. Heriot-Watt Dubai has a state-of-the-art campus located in Dubai Knowledge Park, featuring modern classrooms, digital libraries, breakout spaces, and professional networking areas.
Faculty members teaching the MBA are either based in Dubai or flown in from Edinburgh and other campuses. These instructors hold PhDs or significant executive-level industry experience and ensure that content is globally relevant and locally applicable.
In addition to classroom teaching, the university offers supplementary online learning tools, self-paced digital modules, and webinars that enhance learning outcomes.
Career Support and Industry Links
While the EBS MBA is academically self-directed, the Dubai campus provides strong career support and professional development. Career services include:
Resume and LinkedIn workshops
Interview preparation and career counseling
On-campus employer sessions and networking events
Job fairs and graduate employer introductions
Entrepreneurship support through business plan competitions
Many graduates pursue career advancement in industries such as oil and gas, banking, IT, logistics, media, and healthcare. The university has deep connections with top employers in the UAE and GCC, including Emirates, Etisalat, Unilever, PwC, Nestle, and government ministries.
Career advancement is a core outcome of the program. Alumni often report promotions, salary increases, or successful transitions into leadership roles within one year of graduation.
Global Alumni Network
Graduates of the Heriot-Watt EBS MBA program join a vast global network of over 50,000 alumni. Alumni in Dubai and the wider MENA region are active in professional circles and engage regularly with the university.
Alumni benefits include:
Invitations to exclusive networking and leadership events
Access to continuous learning seminars and online resources
Business collaboration and referral opportunities
Mentorship and advisory platforms for new students
This network significantly enhances personal and professional growth, providing long-term value beyond the classroom.
Life at the Dubai Campus
Dubai offers an ideal environment for higher education with its safety, infrastructure, and dynamic business culture. The Heriot-Watt Dubai campus is located in the heart of Dubai’s academic and business community, providing an ecosystem of innovation and collaboration.
MBA students enjoy flexible schedules, modern campus amenities, and multicultural peers from across Asia, Africa, and Europe. Dubai’s global connectivity and high employability rate make it an ideal location for MBA students looking to grow in international business careers.
Additionally, the university frequently organizes cultural programs, leadership summits, and industry site visits to enhance the real-world applicability of business education.
Conclusion
The Heriot-Watt University MBA from Edinburgh Business School remains one of the most flexible, affordable, and globally respected MBA programs in Dubai in 2025. It combines the credibility of a UK degree, the convenience of modular study, and the support of a globally connected institution.
Whether you are a working professional aiming for a promotion, a career switcher planning a transition, or an aspiring entrepreneur seeking a strategic foundation, the EBS MBA offers the tools, network, and academic excellence to help you succeed.
By enrolling in this program, you’re not just gaining a qualification—you’re entering a global community of business leaders and forward-thinkers. The Heriot-Watt MBA in Dubai is your gateway to leadership, innovation, and international recognition.