Canada or Dubai: what is your ideal destination to study?

Choosing the perfect destination for your international exchange can be challenging, especially when you have options as contrasting as Canada and Dubai. In 2025, these two destinations offer exceptional educational experiences, but with marked differences in visa requirements, cost of living, climate, and job opportunities. Understanding these particularities is essential to make a decision aligned with your academic, professional, and personal objectives.

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Visa processes: red tape vs simplicity

The student visa process for Canada became significantly more stringent in 2025. The Canadian government implemented an annual limit of 437,000 study permits, representing a 10% reduction compared to 2024. The process now includes a new mandatory requirement: the Provincial (PAL) or Territorial (TAL) Attestation Letter. This document, issued by the Canadian province or territory, confirms that your study permit can be processed, and without it, your application will simply be returned.

On the other hand, the process for Study and Work in the United Arab Emirates follows a more direct and unbureaucratized path. Upon confirmation of enrollment at an educational institution in Dubai, the student receives an entry permit valid for 60 days. The process for short-term visas (90 or 180 days) is completed in just 2-5 weeks, while the student resident visa (1 year) requires some additional steps such as local medical exams and the issuance of an Emirates ID, but still with less red tape.

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Financial proof: the decisive factor

The most striking difference between these destinations lies in the financial requirements for obtaining a student visa:

• Canada: Requires robust financial proof. In 2025, the minimum amount required is CAD 20,635 for living expenses (excluding tuition) for an individual student outside Quebec. This amount increases significantly for families - for two members, the amount rises to CAD 25,690, and for three, CAD 31,583.
• Dubai: It revolutionized the educational market by implementing programs that They completely dispense with traditional financial proof. This innovative approach aims to democratize access to international education and attract talent from around the world.

For Canada, proof can be made through bank statements from the last 3 months, a Secured Investment Certificate (GIC) from a Canadian bank, or proof of scholarships. In contrast, Dubai focuses on acceptance by the educational institution and not on the student's financial capacity, removing a significant barrier for many Brazilians who dream of an international education.

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Cost of living: snow or desert?

Canada has a significant variation in the cost of living depending on the city chosen. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive cities, with monthly costs between CAD 1,635 and 2,480, while Montreal and Quebec City offer more affordable alternatives, with a monthly average of between CAD 1,350 and 2,050. In total, a student spends on average between CAD 12,000 and 15,000 a year, excluding tuition fees.

Housing in Canada:

1. University residences: CAD 800-1,200/month
2. Shared flats: CAD 600-1,000/month
3. Homestays with local families: CAD 700-1,500/month (usually including meals)

Dubai offers a high-end experience with varying costs depending on the region chosen. The total monthly cost in areas popular with students such as Al Barsha and JVC (Jumeirah Village Circle) is around AED 7,500 (approximately R$ 11,250), while areas such as International City are more economical, with total monthly costs of approximately AED 5,000 (R$ 7,500).

It is also important to consider that many job opportunities in Dubai include benefits such as accommodation or housing assistance, transportation, and food, which can significantly reduce the actual cost of living - a competitive advantage for this destination.

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Job opportunities: building an international career

Job opportunities are fundamental for many international students. See how the two destinations compare:

Canada in 2025:

• Permission to work up to 24 hours a week during the term
• Full-time work allowed during academic holidays
• Possibility to obtain Postgraduate Work Permit (PGWP) of up to 3 years
• Excellent path to permanent immigration via Express Entry
• Trending sectors: technology, health, finance and education

Dubai:

• Permission to work part time during studies
• Competitive and fully tax-free salaries
• Opportunities in sectors such as hospitality (AED 1,800-3,500/month), retail (AED 2,000-3,000/month), and tutoring (AED 3,000-5,000/month)
• Valuing Portuguese-speaking professionals for international service
• Additional benefits such as housing, transportation, and health insurance in many positions

For long-term prospects, Canada offers a more structured path to permanent immigration, while Dubai provides a global network of contacts and excellent tax-free salaries, but with more limited options for permanent residence.

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Cultural adaptation and climate: your lifestyle

Cultural adaptation can define the success of your international experience. Canada is recognized for its diversity, inclusion, and significant Brazilian community in cities like Toronto and Vancouver. The biggest challenge is the climate, with severe winters (-5°C to -30°C) between November and March, very short days and the possible psychological impact of the long and dark winter.

Dubai has a completely opposite climate, with hot summers (35°C to 45°C) and pleasant winters (20°C to 30°C), more familiar to Brazilians. The city is extremely cosmopolitan, with more than 200 nationalities and English as the predominant language. Adaptation requires respect for local Islamic customs, such as a moderate dress code in public places and the observance of Ramadan, but modern infrastructure and exceptional security facilitate the transition.

Ask yourself: would you rather experience all four seasons with a challenging winter or warm weather year-round? The answer may indicate which destination matches your profile the most.

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Educational system: recognition and methodology

The Canadian education system is globally recognized for excellence, with institutions consistently ranked among the best in the world. The country uses a continuous assessment method, valuing work throughout the semester, collaborative projects, and active participation. Canadian universities and colleges are regulated by the provinces, ensuring uniform quality standards.

The system in Dubai combines local universities with prestigious international university campuses. Institutions follow British or American standards, using credit hour and GPA systems. Diplomas issued by accredited institutions in Dubai are internationally recognized, but the main differential lies in exposure to the Middle Eastern market and global business practices in one of the most dynamic commercial centers in the world.

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Which destination is right for you?

Consider Canada if you:

• Seeks a path to permanent immigration through Public college
• Prefers a traditional education system with strong global recognition
• Value the four-season experience and don't mind winter
• Do you want a multicultural society with Western values
• Are you able to prove substantial financial resources

Opt for Dubai if you:

• Do you want to start your international journey without proving large financial reserves?
• Prefers warm weather all year round
• Search for opportunities in hospitality, tourism, retail, or international business
• Value tax-free salaries and additional benefits
• Are you interested in experiencing a unique culture that mixes tradition and modernity?

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Be Easy

A Be Easy is committed to helping you choose and conquer your ideal destination for international studies. Our specialized team offers personalized guidance based on your profile, objectives and financial possibilities, whether for Canada or Dubai. Contact us today for a consultation and start your international journey with the support you deserve!

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