Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a doctoral program designed for senior executives who wish to enhance their careers through research and analytical thinking skills. It is gaining popularity due to better career growth opportunities and a high salary boost.
In this blog, we will discuss affordable Online DBA programs in the UAE, including their fees, admission requirements, specialisations available, program duration, support services, and global recognition status.
The average salary after a Doctor of Business Administration in the UAE is around AED 319,000 annually. It can vary depending on years of experience, skills, and the institute chosen. So, it is of utmost importance to select a reputable institute with relevant accreditations.
Take your skills to the next level — Explore Online DBA Program
Affordable Online DBA Programs in the UAE: Key Options and Considerations
This section will discuss different affordable online DBA programs in Dubai, featuring their course fees, flexibility, and program structure.
| University | Program Benefits | Flexibility | Course Fees |
| Golden Gate University (GGU) | Live sessions and 24*7 support | Online and on-campus options | AED 55,100 |
| Edgewood University | Thesis supervision and live sessions | Online and on-campus immersion | AED 49,500 |
| ESGCI | Live sessions and workshops | Online and 5 days of optional on-campus | AED 36,700 |
1. Skills Acquired
The skills acquired can vary depending on the university curriculum as well as the specialisation chosen.
- GGU: Managing stakeholder expectations, creating risk mitigation strategies, and creating frameworks
- Edgewood: Managing legal responsibilities, developing confidence for boardroom presentations, and handling ethical conduct
- ESGCI: Data collection, academic writing, research
2. Specialisations Available
Different universities have different specialisations to choose from. Let’s check out a few of them:
- GGU: Finance, Business & Data Analytics, General, Marketing, Leadership & Strategy
- Edgewood: Leadership and Finance
- EGSCI: Specialisation as per choice
3. Admission Requirements
The admission criteria vary among various universities:
- GGU: Master’s degree or a Bachelor’s degree with more than 5 years of experience
- Edgewood: Master’s degree
- EGSCI: Master’s degree or Bachelor’s degree with more than 3 years of experience, or a Diploma degree with more than 8 years of experience
4. Program Duration
The program duration for the universities is as follows:
- GGU: 36 months
- Edgewood: 24 months
- ESGCI: 36 months
5. Support Services
In this competitive market, all universities provide maximum support to attract and retain students. Let’s have a look at the services offered:
- GGU: Live sessions, 24*7 support with chatbot, English subtitles for recorded content
- Edgewood: Thesis supervision, 24*7 support with chatbot, Research workshops
- ESGCI: Dissertation preparation, live lectures, and alumni status as on-campus students
Also Read: DBA Research vs. PhD Research
Key Benefits of Pursuing an Online DBA in 2025
Online DBA programs in Dubai are growing in popularity due to better career prospects and salary hikes. In this section, we will discuss the benefits of pursuing an online DBA program in 2025. Some of the key benefits are:
- Flexibility: One of the most critical factors in choosing an online DBA program is the flexibility of its schedule. It helps working professionals manage a full-time job while pursuing studies.
- Expertise in chosen specialisation: If you are pursuing a DBA program, you will be asked to choose a specific specialisation and gain immense knowledge about that industry. It can be highly beneficial to tackle complex business issues.
- Get the respected ‘Dr’ title: Some people yearn for the ‘Dr’ title, which can be earned through this degree. It is one of the highest levels of academic achievement.
- Better networking opportunities: You will have the chance to meet with business leaders and esteemed members during your program. This will help you expand your network globally, which can positively impact your career.
- Salary boost: Everyone loves a salary boost. A DBA degree will help you secure a salary increase as you rapidly advance to senior-level roles, leveraging your leadership skills.
Also Read: Choose the Best Online DBA Programs in UAE
How upGrad Supports UAE Professionals with Flexible Online DBA Pathways
upGrad offers a wide range of courses in online mode in collaboration with reputed institutes globally. We offer several DBA programs in Dubai that can provide flexibility for working professionals. Let’s check out some of our DBA courses below:
- Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Golden Gate University (GGU): This course can be completed in 36 months, and it has WASC accreditation. The benefits of enrolling in this program are:
- Option for on-campus immersion
- Dissertation workshops
- 5 concentrations to choose from
- Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Edgewood University: This HLC-accredited program can be completed in 24 months. The benefits of enrolling in this program are:
- More than 200 hours of recorded lectures
- Regular workshops for research development
- Two concentrations are available to choose from
- Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from ESGCI: This course can be completed in 36 months, and it has French National Accreditation. The benefits of pursuing this course are:
- Optional 5 days on-campus immersion
- Live faculty lectures
- Specialisation options available
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FAQs on Exploring Affordable Online DBA Programs in UAE
Yes, there are affordable online DBA programs in the UAE that have the relevant accreditations and conform to the UAE’s education policies. Ensure that you check these details before enrolling.
If you want to choose the right specialisation in a DBA program, you should check for a few things.
~ Ensure that the specialisation aligns with your career goals.
~ Assess if that specialisation will have demand in the future.
~ Ensure that the program is accredited and globally recognised.
Yes, you can work full-time while pursuing an Online DBA program in Dubai, as most are designed for working professionals. Do ensure the details of the program before enrolling.
Yes, there are scholarships available for Online DBA learners in the UAE. The availability depends on several factors, including university policies, eligibility criteria, and government initiatives.
If you earn your DBA degree through upGrad, you can benefit in the following ways:
~ Have research and critical thinking skills.
~ Enhance career through a senior leadership role.
~ Have practical insights into business policies.
