Drop in Gulf student visa applications shows dwindling appetite for UK universities
The number of students from the Gulf choosing to study in the UK has plunged in recent years, most drastically from the UAE, figures show. Student visa application numbers have slumped due to a UK migration clampdown that has restricted visas, as well as concerns over social issues, safety and the quality of education in Britain, experts said. While there was an inevitable drop in numbers caused…
Student applications from Gulf countries to study in the UK have significantly decreased over recent years. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar have experienced drops in student visa applications, with the UAE seeing the largest decline at 59% between 2022 and 2025. Experts suggest that a UK migration clampdown and concerns over social issues, safety, and education quality have contributed to this trend.
The UK government has implemented new immigration policies, including a shorter post-graduation job search period and higher fees, which may further discourage students from choosing to study in the UK.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
