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

Choosing the perfect destination for your international exchange can be challenging, especially when you have such contrasting options as Ireland and Dubai. In 2025, these two destinations offer high-level educational experiences for Brazilians, but with marked differences in visa requirements, financial proof, cost of living, 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: flexibility vs simplicity

Study and work in Ireland offers an exclusive advantage for Brazilian students: the possibility of applying for a student visa only upon arrival in the country. You enter as a tourist (visa of up to 90 days) and, within that period, you formalize your application with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS). This process takes, on average, 4 to 8 weeks, with a fixed fee of €300, and does not require waiting for pre-shipment in Brazil, allowing you to adjust housing and logistics even before the official concession.

On the other hand, the process of Study and Work in the United Arab Emirates it's practical. Upon confirmation of enrollment at an educational institution, you receive an entry permit valid for 60 days, during which time medical examinations must be performed and an Emirates ID issued.

• Short-term visas (90/180 days): approval in 2 to 5 weeks.
• Student resident visa (1 year): additional health and biometric steps, but with efficient communication between institution, sponsor and government.

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Financial proof: the big difference

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

Ireland

The Irish government sets minimum amounts that international students must prove to obtain a student visa. These values are updated periodically and represent the amount that the government considers necessary for you to remain in the country during your study period. Currently, the requirements are:

• Current minimum value: €4,680 (valid for courses started until June 29, 2025)

• New value as of June 30, 2025: €6.665

• Visa fee: €300 (in addition to the amount of the financial proof)

• Recommended amount for initial expenses: Minimum of €500 for the first few days

• importantly: The proof amount (€4,680 or €6,665) must not be used before applying for a visa

• Official source: Information available on the website of Irish Immigration

Dubai

There is no deposit or bank statement requirement. Acceptance by the educational institution replaces any financial proof, democratizing access and allowing your capital to be fully directed to courses, housing, and adaptation.

This initiative aims to attract global talent and democratize access to international education. The main programs available are:

• English courses: Intensive programs lasting 6 to 12 months
• Technical courses: Specializations in areas such as technology, business, and hospitality
• Flexible graduation: University programs with easy payment options
• Degree programs: Professional courses in business

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Wages and cost of living: numbers that make a difference

The purchasing power of those who work while studying directly reflects on the quality of life:

• Ireland
  • Minimum wage: €13.50/hour
  • Monthly income (20 h/week): ≈ €1,080
  • Shared housing: €400—600/month
  • Food: €200-300/month
  • Public transport: €120/month
• Dubai
  • Tax-free salaries; vary by sector
  • Accommodation in areas such as International City: AED 5,000/month (≈ R$ 7,500)
  • Al Barsha and JVC: AED 7,500/month (≈ R$ 11,250)
  • Many vacancies include accommodation, transportation, and health insurance

The Irish scenario guarantees coverage of basic expenses and part of the housing with up to 20 hours of work per week; in Dubai, the benefits package can greatly reduce your actual cost of living, and the tax exemption maximizes your income.

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Job opportunities: building international experience

Ireland in 2025:

• Permission to work up to 20 hours/week during the term
• Full-time work (40 hours) allowed during high season academic holidays
• Trending sectors: technology, digital marketing and financial services
• Presence of global hubs such as Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn
• Possibility of post-study with Graduate Employment Permit (up to 2 years)

Dubai:

• There is no time limit to work
• Competitive and tax-free salaries
• Opportunities in hospitality (AED 1,800—3,500/month), retail (AED 2,000—3,000), and tutoring (AED 3,000—5,000)
• Valuation of Portuguese speakers for international service
• Networking with professionals of more than 200 nationalities

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Cultural adaptation and climate: different lifestyles

Ireland: welcoming society, rich musical and literary tradition, festivals such as St. Patrick's. Temperate climate, with cold winters (0 °C to 8 °C) and mild summers (15 °C to 20 °C), requiring planning for rainy days.

Dubai: high-tech urban environment, skyscrapers and shopping malls. Extreme desert climate (35 °C—45 °C in summer; 20 °C—30 °C in winter). Respect for Islamic norms, a moderate dress code, and observance of Ramadan are essential, but infrastructure and security facilitate adaptation.

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Education system: tradition vs innovation

The Irish education system is recognized globally for excellence, especially in areas such as technology, business, and health. Irish higher education institutions offer diverse programs, from intensive English courses to specialized master's degrees, focusing on innovation and the practical application of knowledge.

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

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Which destination is right for you?

Consider Ireland if you:

• Values the clear pathway to immigration and global recognition
• You have financial flexibility for early proof
• Seeks to experience European culture in a welcoming environment
• Do you want to work in technology and financial services

Opt for Dubai if you:

• You need to avoid financial proof barriers
• Prefers hot weather and high net gains
• Seek opportunities in hospitality, retail, and education
• Do you want immersion in an ultramodern business center?

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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, complete support from program choice to local adaptation, ensuring a smooth and enriching experience. Contact us today for your consultancy and take the next step on your international journey.

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