This list covers the top 10 MBA choices for working professionals in the UAE. Eight universities with campuses in the country , followed by two international routes built around a full-time job. Each entry uses what the institution publishes on its own site.
Choosing an MBA while you keep your job comes down to more than a Institution name, length and study format decide whether a program fits your week. This list sets out those facts for each option: structure, length, schedule and specializations.
How is this list of MBA programs in Dubai put together?
The list starts with eight universities that have campuses in the UAE. It ends with two international MBA routes designed for people who keep working while they study, both open to UAE-based working professionals with admissions support in Dubai.
The numbers are list positions, not a score. A low number does not mean a stronger program. Each entry sets out how the MBA is built, so you can compare like with like.
Comparing MBA routes while you work? Get a free eligibility check from our Dubai advisors.
Which ten universities and routes are on the list?
The list brings together well-known universities with campuses across the UAE and international MBA routes that professionals can join from the anywhere. Each option suits a different schedule, budget and career goal, so read them side by side before you decide.
Program details below are a general guide and may change. Confirm current information directly with each institution before you apply.
1. University of Wollongong in Dubai
The University of Wollongong in Dubai offers an MBA awarded by its parent university in Australia. It is designed for working professionals, with classes at weekends. Duration: 18 to 24 months (approx.)
Study format: On campus in Dubai.
2. United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain
United Arab Emirates University, one of the country’s national universities, offers an MBA through its College of Business and Economics. It suits professionals who want a UAE-based program with a strong local reputation.
Study format: On campus in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
3. American University of Sharjah
American University of Sharjah offers an MBA through its School of Business Administration.
Study format: Blended, with part of the program online and most classes on campus in Sharjah.
4. University of Dubai
Dubai Business School at the University of Dubai offers a general MBA alongside several specialized MBAs, with full-time and part-time options. Duration: 12 to 15 months (approx.)
Study format: Online or on campus in Dubai.
5. Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Heriot-Watt University Dubai offers an MBA through Edinburgh Business School, with full-time and part-time options. Duration: 1 year full time or 2 years part time (approx.)
Study format: On campus in Dubai, with weekend sessions.
6. Middlesex University Dubai
Middlesex University Dubai offers an Executive MBA taught in the evening and an MBA taught in the daytime. Duration: 1 year full time or 2 years part time (approx.)
Study format: On campus in Dubai.
7. University of Birmingham Dubai
The University of Birmingham Dubai offers an MBA from Birmingham Business School, designed as a part-time program for working professionals. Duration: 2 years part time (approx.)
Study format: Hybrid, combining online study with in-person sessions in Dubai.
8. Canadian University Dubai
Canadian University Dubai offers an MBA with a choice of focus areas, and classes in the evening and at weekends. Duration: 3 semesters (approx.)
Study format: On campus in Dubai.
9. University of Gloucestershire
The University of Gloucestershire MBA (Masters Stage) is a UK award body ,open to UAE-based professionals, and it can be studied online. Duration: 7 to 24 months Approx., depending on the student.
Study format: 100% online, dissertation based and studied from the UAE while you work, with admissions through Global Career Pathway.
Global Career Pathway supports admissions for this route from Dubai as well. Its advisors review your qualifications first, confirm whether you can enter the Masters Stage directly or through a Level 7 diploma, and walk you through enrolment step by step. and GCP stays in touch through out the program.
10. SSBM Geneva
The SSBM Geneva MBA offers more than thirteen specializations and is assessed through case studies, projects and assignments rather than traditional sit-down written papers. Study is self-paced with optional live sessions, so it fits around a full-time job. Duration: 6 to 24 months, depending on the student (approx.)
Study format: 100% online, assignment based and admissions through Global Career Pathway.
Global Career Pathway is the admissions partner for SSBM Geneva in the UAE. Its Dubai team checks your eligibility, helps you pick the specialization that matches your career, prepares your documents with you and stays in touch through out the program.
Shortlisted SSBM Geneva or the University of Gloucestershire? Talk to the admissions team that handles both routes.
What should you check before you apply?
Before you apply to any MBA on this list, check five things: who awards the degree, how long it runs, when the next intake starts, how you will be assessed, and how it fits your working week.
- Awarding body. The institution whose name appears on your certificate.
- Length. The months from your start date to your final result.
- Intake. The months when a new batch starts.
- Assessment. Written assignments or a research project or exams, or a mix of them.
- Schedule. Class times, residential weekends and any travel you need to plan.
Routes built for working professionals, like the last two on this list, tend to answer all five clearly before you enrol.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study an MBA in Dubai while working full time?
Yes. Several programs on this list run part time, in the evening or at weekends. SSBM Geneva and the University of Gloucestershire are built around working professionals, provides 100% online session with self-paced study and no need to leave your job. Global Career Pathway supports admissions for both routes from Dubai.
How long does an MBA in Dubai take?
It depends on the program and your pace. it can take around 6 to 24 months (approx.)
Do I need a bachelor’s degree to start an MBA?
Most routes ask for one. A UK Level 7 diploma route also exists for people without a conventional bachelor’s degree, and it leads into the final stage of an MBA. Global Career Pathway’s admissions advisors can review your documents and confirm which route fits your background.
Not sure which MBA fits your background?
If SSBM Geneva or the University of Gloucestershire made your shortlist, you do not have to work through the admissions process alone. Send over your documents, or the two names you cannot separate, and book a free consultation with Global Career Pathway in Dubai. As the admissions partner for both routes, its advisors go through entry requirements and specializations with you, and tell you which route suits your profile.
Global Career Pathway is an admissions partner and does not award qualifications. Admissions support does not guarantee a place or a result. Qualifications are awarded by the institutions named.
Last reviewed: 27 September 2026.
Sources
- University of Wollongong in Dubai MBA
- UAEU MBA catalog and UAEU MBA overview
- AUS MBA
- University of Dubai General MBA
- Heriot-Watt Dubai MBA
- Middlesex Dubai Executive MBA and MBA Daytime
- University of Birmingham Dubai MBA
- Canadian University Dubai MBA
- SSBM Geneva online MBA and SSBM FAQ
- University of Gloucestershire MBA (Masters Stage)
- OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership
