Gulf region updates – support for our Dubai community
At Heriot-Watt University Dubai, the safety and wellbeing of our community remains our highest priority. As we continue to monitor regional developments, we are committed to maintaining full continuity of learning through flexible digital platforms and globally connected support services, ensuring that academic integrity and the quality of the student experience remain uncompromised.
Resumption of on-campus activities
The Heriot-Watt University Dubai campus is fully operational and open to staff and students from Monday, 11 May. Teaching will resume on campus for the summer semester, with an online option available for those unable to attend campus. The safety of our community remains our highest priority and all campus activities will be in line with government health and safety protocols. Students are urged to continue monitoring their University email for latest updates.
Apply with your predicted grades
With recent changes to assessments across several school boards in the Middle East, Heriot-Watt University Dubai will now assess all undergraduate applications based on verified school‑predicted grades for our September 2026 intake. To ensure a fair and consistent experience, we will consider a range of verified assessments, including mock exam results, pre-board assessments, and official teacher-predicted scores.
Hybrid learning and digital connectivity
Students and staff have full access to a comprehensive suite of IT systems designed to support flexible, high-quality online engagement.
All classes are available on Canvas, our virtual learning environment, where you can:
- Access course materials
- Submit assignments
- Take quizzes
- Communicate with lecturers
- Receive announcements and feedback
Canvas is available at: https://canvas.hw.ac.uk/
You may also explore our Digital Tour, which provides an overview of the core IT systems available to you as a Heriot-Watt student or staff member.
Safety and wellbeing
Safety on campus
The safety of our community remains our highest priority and all campus activities are conducted in line with government health and safety protocols. All our staff members have completed comprehensive health and safety training, covering emergency response procedures, awareness of Safe Zone locations and evacuation routes, student wellbeing support and communication protocols. This has been complemented by enhanced campus safety measures and clear processes to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all.
Safezone app
SafeZone is a free app that allows you to send a location-based alert from your smartphone or tablet to SafeGuarding Services whenever you need an immediate emergency response, first-aid or any other general assistance.
The SafeZone app makes it easy for students and staff to get help with the single tap of a button. Within seconds the SafeGuarding Officers, will receive the alert and initiate a response.
Wellbeing services
As a member of the Heriot-Watt University community, you have access to our global wellbeing services, available 24/7.
Wellness drop-in sessions
The Wellbeing Service offers weekly Wellness Drop-in sessions. These sessions are open to all students and provide a supportive space to pause, connect with others, and receive guidance from wellbeing staff during this time. Contact the Wellbeing services team to join one of our drop-in sessions.
Self-help resources
- Togetherall – A 24/7 confidential online mental health support community.
- Sorted Mental Health App– Audio-based mental training to help improve mood and manage stress and anxiety (email Wellbeing Services team for code).
- SAKINA Hotline (24/7) – 800-725462- Trained professionals available for emotional support.
- Open Mind Clinic – Students with university insurance can access free psychotherapy sessions at Open Mind Clinics and other providers within the insurance network.
If you are seeking support for yourself or someone you are concerned about, please email us on dubaiwellbeing@hw.ac.uk
Travel advisory
UAE airlines are running a limited flight schedule to key destinations as of the latest update from authorities. Students and staff looking to travel in and out of the country are advised to monitor official UAE government channels, review the latest travel advice issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), airline communications and embassy advisories for the latest updates and check flight status before travelling.
Virtual campus tour
Heriot‑Watt University Dubai’s state‑of‑the‑art campus has been purposefully designed to elevate the student experience, bringing together modern learning spaces, specialist laboratories, collaborative zones and vibrant social areas that support both academic success and personal growth.
Our virtual tour allows you to explore these facilities at your own pace, offering an immersive look at the classrooms, studios and community spaces that shape daily life on campus. It’s an easy and engaging way to discover our environment and imagine yourself as part of our dynamic university community.
Financial support
We understand this may be a period of uncertainty for many students and their families. In light of the recent regional developments, we have introduced additional measures to ensure that your educational journey remains uninterrupted and to provide you with reassurance, flexibility, and support as you prepare for the September 2026 intake.
GCC and UAE Regional Student Grant
Students studying in the UAE and GCC region have access to the GCC and UAE Regional Student Grant and can apply to their chosen undergraduate programme with their predicted grades.
The grant is designed to support your university application amid changes to board examinations and to ensure that your educational journey stays on track.
Tuition fee and refunds
We have introduced a more flexible approach for our September 2026 intake. The tuition fee deposit for September 2026 will be fully refundable, and if you choose to withdraw before enrolment, any additional payments made toward your total tuition fees will also be returned in full.
For students who require a UAE study permit, the tuition fee deposit will be refunded if the visa application submitted through the University’s visa department is unsuccessful, although visa processing fees and related charges remain non‑refundable.
Subscribe to monthly updates
Parents and guardians may subscribe to the Provost Monthly Newsletter to receive updates on University operations, student support measures, and key developments affecting academic progress and wellbeing.
KHDA issued frequently asked questions
The following information is issued by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) Dubai.
Student wellbeing, safety, and security
The Government of Dubai and its relevant authorities are continuously monitoring regional developments and taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all residents, including the international student community. Dubai’s security infrastructure is robust, and students can continue their studies with confidence.
Continuity of education
All higher education institutions are expected to maintain continuity of teaching and learning. In the event that any disruption affects on-campus attendance, institutions are equipped to transition to online or blended delivery models to ensure students continue to receive the highest standards of education.
Travel and visa issues
Dubai continues to welcome international travellers. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) publishes updated travel advisories, which can be accessed through their website. https://www.dubaidet.gov.ae/en/travel-advisory Prospective students are encouraged to check this resource and monitor communications from their home country's embassy or consulate for any travel guidance relevant to their home country.
General frequently asked questions
For current students
The Heriot-Watt University Dubai campus is fully operational and open to staff and students from Monday, 11 May. All campus activities are conducted in line with government health and safety protocols.
Students and staff can access the campus to use all facilities including the library, study spaces, student services, and other campus amenities.
For new students and offer holders
The Heriot-Watt University Dubai campus is fully operational and open to staff and students from 11 May 2026. All campus activities are conducted in line with government health and safety protocols.
Our teams remain available both online and on campus to support applicants and parents. To book an appointment or a campus tour with our Recruitment and Admissions team, please call +971 4 571 7000 or email dubaienquiries@hw.ac.uk.
You can also connect with us via LiveChat on our website or through our official WhatsApp channel at +971 52 247 6053.
If you are a current student with an immediate safety concern, please contact:
Emergency Services: +971 52 562 3467 or use the SafeZone App.
For general enquiries, please contact Student Services via ASK HWU on your student portal. You will also continue to receive communications from your academic team regarding assessments. We encourage you to check your Canvas course sites regularly.
We understand that this is a challenging time, and we want to reassure you that the University remains fully operational online and ready to support you.
Thank you for your understanding, and please stay safe.