10 reasons to learn English in the UAE

It’s one of the most dynamic English-speaking cities in the world—a global hub of business, luxury and tourism, and a gateway to the Middle East and beyond. With its unique blend of tradition and innovation, it’s no wonder Dubai has become a top choice for international students wanting to learn English.

You’ll find a million reasons to learn English in the UAE. And the experience at EC Dubai, our newest school, is right up there on the list. Here’s why. 

1. You’ll experience a global student paradise 

Talk about oadening your horizons! When you learn English in the UAE (United Arab Emirates), you’ll not only learn about Emirati culture—you’ll interact with people from all over the world. That’s because a mind-blowing 88% of Dubai’s population is international.

Just walking down the street, you’ll hear conversations in English, Arabic, Farsi, Urdu and numerous other languages. Because it’s such a vi ant melting pot of cultures, the city has become a top choice for international students; you’ll feel right at home studying English at EC Dubai with new friends from across the globe.  

2. Coolest campus ever  

At EC Dubai, you’ve found the coolest place to learn English in the UAE. All our classes are held at Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP), a vi ant, multi-cultural student hub and innovation ‘free zone’ specifically designed for learning, connection and collaboration. Learn General English or take professional development courses in an ultra-modern environment with classmates from around the world, surrounded by tons of student-friendly spaces, including cafés and a food court. It’s also just minutes from the bustling Dubai Marina and stunning beaches for relaxing between classes. 

3. Endless activities 

Try new water sports, kite surfing, parachuting, dune-bashing, belly-dancing or camel-riding. Sample amazing food. Shop the Old Souk or the ultra-modern Dubai Mall, where you’ll also find  an incredible Aquarium and Underwater Zoo with 300 types of marine animals (plus a few mermaids). You can even go skiing (yes, you read that right) at one of the world’s largest indoor ski slopes. Everywhere you look, you’ll find thrilling things to do while you learn English in the UAE. Our EC Dubai activities programme will ensure you don’t miss a thing. 

4. Safety is a non-issue 

Wondering about crime in Dubai? Rest assured: It’s renowned for being one of the safest cities in the world, with one of the highest standards of living. Strict laws (for residents, tourists and students alike) contribute to an almost non-existent crime rate. All around the city, you’ll see advanced security measures, like high-tech surveillance cameras and security patrols, ensuring a safe urban environment for living and learning English in the UAE. 

5. Speedy visa processing 

Unlike most global hubs, the UAE has a very short visa processing time (only about 10 to 15 working days) and offers uniquely flexible visa options that allow you to work while studying. That means you can help cover expenses for classes while getting valuable professional experience in an international setting. You can jump right in to improving your English, building your global network and boosting your resume by working in Dubai’s thriving job market. 

  6. Two words: Burj Khalifa 

It’s true: Everything is bigger in Dubai. But even in a city of superlatives, the Burj Khalifa stands out. Rising over 160 storeys, the world’s tallest building is an incredible engineering feat, a stunning work of art and a testament to luxury on the Arabian Peninsula. You can buy tickets to the observation deck at the top, where you’ll get eathtaking views of all of Dubai—and seriously elevate your Instagram feed. 

7. Navigating is a eeze 

Dubai has a super modern infrastructure, including an extensive public transport network that makes getting around a eeze (idiomatic translation: really easy). Conveniently located in vi ant neighbourhoods across Dubai, all EC shared apartments are just steps from metro stations, bus stops, trams and even monorail stops, so you can get to school or explore the city effortlessly. Before long, you’ll know the city like the back of your hand (idiomatic translation: really well). 

8. Your career prospects will soar 

English is the global language of business, so learning English in the UAE in a global business hub like Dubai will look great on your resume. You’ll open doors to professional opportunities around the world as well as in Dubai, which is home to international companies in tourism, real estate, finance, and more. Want an extra competitive advantage? Take our professional courses in Business, Marketing and Management at EC Dubai to earn globally recognized certifications and credits that are transferrable worldwide. 

9. You’ll build a global network   

With its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, its dynamic student scene and a flourishing international business ecosystem, Dubai provides the perfect environment for global networking. Share incredible experiences with classmates from all over the world and form lifelong friendships. Attend international conferences, seminars and expos in the city with other professionals who share your goals. And build lasting relationships with hospitable locals as you practice your English. 

10. It’s a perfect launch pad for travel 

With all the multicultural influences you’ll experience in Dubai, you’ll want to explore the region further. Done! The Emirates is a global hub for travel, and Dubai is the perfect starting point. You’ll find so many interesting and exotic travel locations nearby, including India, Kenya, Bahrain, Nepal, Turkey, Morocco, Egypt—plus multiple European and African locations. Plus, Dubai is only an hour’s drive from the famed city of Abu Dhabi, where English is the common language for commerce, business and education, like it is in Dubai. Start your English language learning journey at EC Dubai—and discover a world of possibilities.