University of Birmingham Dubai’s partner residence, The Myriad, lists 2026/27 rents from AED 3,250 a month for a shared room to AED 6,250 for a studio, with utilities, Wi-Fi and a campus shuttle included. Heriot-Watt University Dubai lists indicative prices from five private providers, from 2,150 for a shared room to 7,500 for a studio, and says the university is not a party to any housing agreement. This guide sets out those published figures and what I could not verify.
Details come from the University of Birmingham Dubai and Heriot-Watt University Dubai accommodation pages, checked on 30 October 2026. Prices are indicative and can change, so confirm them with the provider. For wider Dubai context, see our guides to student accommodation costs in Dubai, the best areas, Knowledge Park and Makaan Student Housing.
The Myriad, Dubai International Academic City (2026/27)
| Room type | 1 to 3 months | 4 to 8 months | 9 to 12 months |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | AED 6,250 | AED 6,050 | AED 5,650 |
| Single | AED 5,500 | AED 5,250 | AED 5,000 |
| Double (shared) | AED 3,700 | AED 3,450 | AED 3,250 |
- Per person, per month. The 1 to 3 month rate is only available from April 2027. Stays under a month use daily rates of AED 280 (studio), AED 255 (single) and AED 185 (shared).
- Included: all utilities, high-speed Wi-Fi, weekly cleaning, 24/7 laundrette and security, free parking and a scheduled shuttle across Dubai. The buildings are gender-segregated.
- Deposit: refundable, AED 3,500 for stays of a month or more and AED 1,750 for shorter stays.
- To book: you need a passport or Emirates ID copy and proof of enrolment at University of Birmingham Dubai.
Heriot-Watt University Dubai’s listed providers
| Provider | Studio | Single | Sharing | Distance from Knowledge Park |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Myriad Dubai | 5,400 | 4,750 | 3,200 | 40 km |
| Yugo | 5,500 | 4,400 | 3,300 | 38.2 km |
| KSK Homes | n/a | 3,999 | 2,999 | 42 km |
| ESAW Holiday Homes | n/a | n/a | 2,150 | 16.3 km |
| Al Sufouh Suites | 7,500 | n/a | 3,750 | 3.7 km |
The page does not state the currency or billing period for this table, so I have not added either; it also gives no contract length or deposit. All five providers offer transport to campus. Heriot-Watt also lists Mercure Dubai serviced apartments, 6 km from Knowledge Park, at 5,000 per person per month for a one-bedroom shared by two and 3,750 for a two-bedroom shared by four. Students should tell providers they are Heriot-Watt students, and prices apply only if the right number of people share. The page notes that all students must start their tenancy on the same date and that spaces fill fast.
What to check before you book
- Deposit funds: University of Birmingham Dubai says most providers require a rent deposit paid in advance, so you need money beyond your first month’s budget.
- Who the contract is with: Heriot-Watt says it is not a party to housing agreements you make with providers.
- Transport: distances in the table range from 3.7 km to 42 km, so ask about shuttle timings.
- Cancellation terms: The Myriad’s bookings are subject to its own terms and cancellation policy, so read them before you pay.
I could not verify Dubai’s tenancy registration rules, rent-regulation rules or neighbourhood rankings from official government sources, so I have not stated them. If you rent privately, ask your university’s student services what applies, view the property in person or on a live video call, and never pay before you have a written contract. Before you commit, read our guide to university halls versus private housing, the checklist of what to look for before you sign and our safety guide.
FAQs about student accommodation in Dubai
How much does student accommodation in Dubai cost?
The Myriad lists AED 3,250 to AED 6,250 a month for 2026/27, depending on room type and length of stay. Heriot-Watt’s table of private providers lists 2,150 to 7,500 without stating the currency.
Is there a deposit?
The Myriad lists a refundable deposit of AED 3,500 for stays of a month or more. Other providers vary, so ask.
Does the university arrange housing contracts for me?
Heriot-Watt Dubai says it is not a party to housing agreements with providers; you contract with the provider directly.
Sources
- University of Birmingham Dubai: The Myriad
- University of Birmingham Dubai: general accommodation guidance
- Heriot-Watt University Dubai: student accommodation
All checked 30 October 2026.
