Growing H-1B costs push Indian families in UAE to reconsider US universities

Rising H-1B visa costs and ongoing uncertainty in US immigration policies are causing Indian families in the UAE to reconsider sending their children to American universities.

The H-1B visa fee has now reached $100,000 per worker, prompting many parents to explore alternative study destinations.

Education consultants in the region report a surge in inquiries from families reassessing long-held plans for a US education.

“The recent changes in US immigration policies and rising H-1B visa fees are creating uncertainty, particularly for Indian STEM students and their families based in the UAE. We’re seeing firsthand how these developments are prompting families to reconsider long-standing plans," said Varun Jain, founder and CEO of UniHawk Global.

“A parent whose son studies at Emirates International School had always planned to send him to the US. But soon after the news of the fee hikes broke, he called us frantically, saying, ‘We need to change our plans.’ This is just one of many similar stories we’re now hearing from families in the UAE,” Jain added.

While the US remains attractive for liberal arts programs, research opportunities, and scholarships, consultants say students are increasingly considering other countries.

“Students are now actively applying to countries such as Finland, Italy, France, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Singapore, beyond the traditionally popular destinations like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and the US,” Jain added.

Rema Menon Vellat, director of Counselling Point Training & Development, said she is also witnessing a shift in family priorities.

“Over this weekend, I met with quite a few concerned parents and their children, some of whom are looking at starting in the UAE and then transferring to universities abroad. Most people are looking at university not just as a launch pad for studies and career growth, but also as a place to settle down permanently," she said.

The UAE itself is emerging as a serious alternative for many students. “For many STEM students in the UAE, the return on investment is critical," said Gary Fernandes, associate regional director, Prospect Experience and Global Admissions Hub at Heriot-Watt University Dubai.

“When long-term employment pathways look less secure or more costly, both parents and students start to reassess whether the US remains the best option. This has direct implications for Indian students and families in the UAE,” Fernandes added.

Fernandes highlighted a broader global shift. “For decades, the ‘brain drain’ narrative has seen top Indian talent migrate to the US or UK. Today, that flow is becoming more diversified, with growing interest in destinations that combine academic quality with clearer, affordable career pathways. The UAE, in particular, is not only attracting Indian students but is also increasingly retaining their talent.”

KHDA data shows Dubai hosted more than 42,000 students across 41 private higher education institutions in the 2024-25 academic year, with around 35% being international.

Fernandes noted that at Heriot-Watt University, 46% of September 2025 enrollments are international, with India accounting for over 20%.

Experts point to the UAE’s stability and forward-looking policies as a key draw.

“While some may explore domestic options in India as a backup, we are increasingly seeing students choose the UAE as their preferred destination,” said Nahid Afshan, head of admissions at BITS Pilani Dubai Campus.

“This country offers world-class academic programs, strong industry connections, and geographical proximity to India, along with easier post-study opportunities in a globally connected hub," Afshan added.

Dr Anita Patankar, executive director of Symbiosis Dubai, said the rising H-1B fees have disrupted traditional expectations.

“For decades, the H-1B visa was the cornerstone of the American dream for Indian STEM students. Families invested heavily in US universities, trusting that post-study work opportunities would justify the cost,” Patankar said.

“The recent $100,000 H-1B fee has disrupted that expectation, leaving many families questioning whether the risk is worth it. Dubai is emerging not as a fallback, but as a thoughtfully designed, future-oriented ecosystem for global education,” Patankar added.

Patankar continued, “With a visa-friendly approach, including the 10-year Golden Visa and jobseeker and freelance options, Dubai offers clarity and stability, which is rare to gain in today’s unpredictable world.”