Looking for the next chapter in your academic journey? In recent years, Dubai has seen a shift towards specialised learning instead of general degrees. If you want to learn practical skills and engage in hands-on projects, vocational education in Dubai is an excellent option.
Technical and vocational programmes prepare students for a rewarding career and better opportunities. Scroll down to learn more about vocational education benefits and institutes in Dubai.
- What Is Vocational Education?
- Benefits of Vocational Education
- Vocational Education in Dubai
- Popular Vocational Training Institutes in Dubai
- FAQs
What Is Vocational Education?
Unlike traditional academic education, vocational education in Dubai involves hands-on learning in specific subject areas. Such courses prepare students for better job opportunities and career advancement in their chosen fields. Students learn about Business, Information Technology, Marketing, Aviation and other skills such as:
- Coding
- Cooking
- Animation
- Automotive Repair
Benefits of Vocational Education
Here are some of the benefits of vocational education in Dubai certifications and diplomas:
1. Employability
The technical training institutes instil the skills and knowledge required for specific roles. Such courses in vocational education training institutes encourage students to participate in hands-on projects and internships. This increases employability and prepares students for the practical world.
2. Cost-Effectiveness
Compared to technical education, vocational education courses are more affordable, making them accessible to a broader range of individuals. Unlike three to four-year university degrees, vocational education courses are a few weeks to months long. This helps students join the workforce early and gain skills for future growth.
3. Global Opportunities
Most vocational education institutions have partnerships with global industries, providing pathways to promising careers. Moreover, graduates can work in renowned local and international organisations.
Vocational Education in Dubai
The UAE Government has introduced a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system. Through this system, the Government promotes vocational education and training in Dubai to produce skilled labourers. The Government has also partnered with various vocational education institutions that aim to teach employment and entrepreneurship skills.
Upon completing Cycle 1 schooling, students can opt for vocational education courses in the Cycle 2 stage or pursue higher education in the UAE. After completing the vocational education training, students will be awarded a Technical Secondary Diploma or Certificate.
Regulatory Bodies of TVET
Different regulatory bodies are responsible for ensuring the quality of vocational education in the UAE. The National Qualifications Centre (NQC) is a federal entity that manages and regulates the vocational institutes in the Emirates.
TVET Institutes in Dubai
Different KHDA-recognised institutes offer vocational education in Dubai. Some of the technical and vocational institutes in Dubai are:
- Centre of Excellence for Applied Research and Training under the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT)
- Emirates Aviation University
- Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management
- Etisalat Academy
Popular Vocational Training Institutes in Dubai
Want to learn a cutting-edge skill and land high-paying jobs? Several KHDA-approved institutes offer vocational education in Dubai, such as:
1. ALDAR Academy for Vocational Education
ALDAR Academy is one of the best institutes for vocational education in Dubai. Opened in 1984, this vocational training centre offers cutting-edge skills and courses in diverse fields.
Whether you want to pursue Business Education or Fashion Design, the institute offers it all. These courses are designed to prepare students for better employment opportunities, build their interpersonal skills, and provide a pathway to global success.
Location
Al Gaizi Plaza, Al Garhoud, Dubai
Contact Information
- Phone: +971-4-282-6880
- Email: info@aldar.ac.ae
Popular Programmes
- Pearson International BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Business
- Pearson International BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Computing
- Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Creative Media Production (Game Development)
Tuition Fees
The tuition fee for vocational education at ALDAR Academy in Dubai varies by programme. Please visit the ALDAR Academy website for more information.
2. Swiss International Vocational Training School
Established in 2006 in Switzerland, Swiss International Vocational Training School has grown to seven locations, including Dubai. With its curriculum inspired by the Swiss Education System, it offers diverse courses in Business Management and Information Technology.
Moreover, it offers a ‘Learn While You Earn’ programme, where students start earning through projects and internships.
Location
Dubai Healthcare City, Phase 2, Al Jaddaf, Dubai
Contact Information
- Phone: +971-4-409-6960
- Email: info@sivt.ae
Popular Programmes
Provides vocational training in different fields, including Business Administration and Information Technology.
Course Fees
AED 308,525
3. ASTI Academy
Al Shabaka Technical Institute (ASTI) prepares tomorrow’s technical and business leaders. Founded in 1995, it has evolved into one of the top-rated vocational education institutes in Dubai.
It offers innovative courses that teach real-world skills and prepare students to tackle complex challenges. Some of the popular fields offered include Management, Engineering, Accounting and Finance, and Computing and IT.
Location
Building 29, 5th Street, Al Qusais 2, Dubai
Contact Information
- Phone: +971-4-280-9955
- Email: Enquire@astiacademy.ac.ae
Schools
- School Of Business (Level 5)
- School Of Engineering & Built Environment ( Level 5)
- School Of Social Science (Level 5)
- School Of Computing & IT (Level 5)
- School Of Accounting (Level 5)
Tuition Fees
Visit the ASTI Academy website to learn more.
4. Emirates Aviation University
Want to learn specialised skills in aviation management and aeronautics? Emirates Aviation University is a recognised vocational education and technical training institute in Dubai. In addition to bachelor’s degrees, it offers professional vocational training courses to equip students with real-world skills.
Some of the top training courses include airport ground handling and flight operations management.
Location
Academic City, Dubai
Contact Information
- Phone: +971-4-605-0100
- Email: eau.info@emirates.com
Programmes
- Flight Dispatcher Initial Course (FDIC)
- Flight Dispatcher Recurrent Course (FDRC)
- Dispatch Resource Management (DRM)
- Extended Twin-Range Operational Procedures (ETOPS)
- International Flight Planning (IFP)
- Flight Dispatcher—Abridged Course (FD-AbC)
- Diploma in Airport Ground Handling
Tuition Fees
- Flight Dispatcher Initial Course (10 weeks): AED 47,959
- Flight Dispatcher Recurrent Course (3 days): AED 7,695
- Dispatch Resource Management (1 day): AED 2,558
- Extended Twin-Range Operational Procedures (3 days): AED 7,695
- International Flight Planning
- Flight Dispatcher—Abridged Course (3 days): AED 7,695
- Diploma in Airport Ground Handling (15 months): AED 38,850
5. Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT)
Founded in 1988, Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) is a renowned institute for vocational education in Dubai. It has 15 campuses across the UAE, with two in Dubai. It offers a range of diploma programmes in Engineering, Computer Science and Media.
Locations
- Academic City
- Al Nahda
Contact Information
800-663-428
Programmes
- Engineering Technology & Science
- Computer Information Science
- Applied Media
Tuition Fees
HCT provides education free of cost to UAE nationals and children of UAE national mothers. Here is the fee structure for expats:
- Per semester (12-18 credit hours): AED 30,000 per semester
- Per semester (less than 12 or more than 18 credit hours): AED 2,100 per credit hour
FAQs
Vocational Education and Training Awards Council (VETAC) operates under the National Qualifications Centre (NQC). The centre regulates, supervises and keeps a check on vocational and technical institutes at the federal level.
Some of the best vocational educational institutes recognised by KHDA are ALDAR Academy, ASTI Academy and Higher Colleges of Technology.
Some of the best universities in Dubai include the University of Dubai, the American University in Dubai and Zayed University.
These were all the details about vocational education in Dubai. With the rising demand for specialised workers, vocational education is at the forefront for better employment opportunities. Choose a programme that aligns with your interests, enrol in a recognised institute, and open up avenues for future success.
If you want to pursue a university education, you can apply for the fully funded scholarships for international students in Dubai. Moreover, explore the list of the best universities and colleges in the UAE.
