From popular Malayalam movies in the eighties or nineties to the aspirations of most youngsters in Kerala, Dubai has a unique place. It is more of an achievable goal, much easier than most Western destinations. And the fabric of the city of Dubai is closely linked to the ethos of Malayalis, from the labourers who toiled to build it to the boardroom members who shape the destiny of Dubai. 
And now, IRS Study Abroad is sharing yet another Dubai dream: to work while studying. That too, even full-time work while pursuing an MBA. Unbelievable? Yes — it’s possible.

Imagine earning an international MBA from a UK/Australian/European partner university — but studying in Dubai, paying far less than you might in the UK or Australia, and continuing to work (or even keep a full-time job) while you study. For many students from Kerala, this is not a pipe dream — it’s a smart, practical route to a global career.

Why Dubai is a great study choice for Kerala students

Dubai has grown into one of the world’s fastest-moving education hubs. Several well-known international universities run full campuses or accredited programmes here — think Heriot-Watt, Middlesex University Dubai, University of Wollongong in Dubai and more — offering MBAs, Executive MBAs and flexible master’s programmes designed for working professionals. 

What that means for you: many MBA programmes in Dubai are offered on weekends, evenings, or modular formats, so people who are already working can study without stepping off the career ladder. These are the same degrees awarded by the parent universities — international recognition, closer to home, and often with a friendlier price tag.

Work + MBA: how it works (and why it matters)

Dubai’s higher-education model has a practical bent — universities work closely with industry, and many MBA formats (Executive MBAs, part-time MBAs) are built for professionals who study alongside work. If you plan to continue working while you study, choose a programme labelled part-time, executive, or weekend delivery — those are specifically structured for employed students. 

Legally, international students who want to work in Dubai must follow UAE rules: employment requires the appropriate work permit issued through the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MoHRE) or the relevant authorities, and universities often help students navigate the paperwork. So yes — working while studying is possible, but it’s important to do it the right way. 

Post-study and career advantages — realistic and immediate

Dubai is a global business hub. The city offers strong opportunities in finance, tech, hospitality, logistics and entrepreneurship — and the UAE has been introducing graduate-friendly pathways and work-permit systems to retain talent. Reports and education experts point to growing post-study work options for graduates from UAE institutions. (Always check the exact visa rules for your programme and year.) 
Another clear plus: personal income in the UAE is tax-free, which can make the early years of your career more financially rewarding than many other study-then-work routes.

Cost & convenience — a sensible comparison with Western options

Studying in Dubai often works out cheaper than the full cost of attending a UK, Australia or Canada campus once you factor tuition, living costs, travel and the ability to keep earning while you study. Plus, Dubai’s location and flight connections make it convenient for families in Kerala — quick journeys for holidays or a parent’s visit are far easier than long-haul trips to Europe or North America. (Costs vary by university and programme; we’ll map out the real figures for you.)

The Malayali connection — you won’t feel far from home

As I had mentioned in the intro, Dubai is home to a very large Indian community, and Malayalis form one of the most visible groups among them. You’ll find Malayalam food, cultural groups, churches, and a warm expatriate network, which makes the transition smoother for students from Kerala. Many Malayali families already living in the UAE are a big reason why Dubai feels familiar and friendly. 

Quick checklist — is Dubai right for you?

• Want an international degree at a lower overall cost? 
• Need to continue working while studying? Look for Executive/part-time MBA formats. 
• Want quick access to jobs in the Gulf and beyond? Dubai’s market helps.
• Want a safe, multicultural campus environment? 
And here’s something practical we do at IRS Study Abroad
IRS Study Abroad helps Kerala students select the right Dubai campus, match them with part-time or Executive MBA formats that accommodate their work schedules, and guide them through the admissions and visa application process. We also arrange collateral-free education loans to remove the money stress at the start, so your application, admission, and move can be smooth and tension-free. Unbelievable? We get it — but we’ve helped students do exactly this.

Study in Dubai — Your Global Career Starts Here. 

Want a real cost comparison between a UK MBA and the Dubai route? Want to see Executive MBA timetables that let you work full-time? Let’s talk.
IRS Study Abroad, Kottayam — +91 96561 21000 
3rd Floor, Above Trends, Nagampadom, Kottayam