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HERIOT-WATT UNIVERSITY DUBAI CAMPUS

Information for Inter-Campus Transfer Students

Academic Year 2017/2018

(September 2017 Intake)

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CONTENTS

Section

Page

1 THE DUBAI CAMPUS 6

2 DATES FOR ACADEMIC YEAR 17/18 9

3 TRAVELLING TO THE UAE AND DUBAI CAMPUS 10

4 VISA 10

5 MEDICAL INSURANCE 13

6 MEET AND GREET SERVICE 13

7 STUDENT ACCOMMODATION 14

8 STUDENT TRANSPORT 15

9 ENROLMENT AND PAYMENT OF TUITION FEES WITH THE UNIVERSITY 15

10 INDUCTION EVENTS 16

11 GO GLOBAL BURSARIES 16

12 INTERNSHIPS AND PART-TIME WORKING 16

13 GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT DUBAI AND UAE 17

14 OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER 18

15 USEFUL CONTACTS 19

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CHECKLIST

As you read this guide, you will see that there is a list of actions that you need to take prior to commencement on your programme of study at the Dubai Campus. For your benefit, the list below has been prepared to assist you with the actions. Please refer to specific sections in the Handbook for further information.

SECTION BEFORE YOU ARRIVE IN DUBAI Tick √ if complete

3.1 Book your flight It is recommended that your arrival airport should be Dubai In-ternational (DXB).

4.3 Ensure validity of Passport You must have 6 months validity from the date you submit original passport to the Visa Office (when you arrive in Dubai).

4 Submit ‘Student Residence’ or ‘Short-Term’ visa documenta-tion to the University (if required)

Apply 45 days before the start of the Academic Year (or as soon as possible) to ensure approval of ‘Entry Permit’.

5 Obtain medical insurance Mandatory as part of your ‘Student Residence’ or Short-Term’ visa’.

4.4 Obtain your ‘Entry Permit’ (if required)

You must obtain your ‘Entry Permit’ before entering the coun-try to commence studies.

7 Apply for student accommoda-tion (if required)

Apply by 1st August (or asap)

8 Apply for student transport (if required)

Apply 30 days before the start of the Academic Year (if not staying on-campus, Etisalat Academy or Uninest)

6 Apply for Meet and Greet

service (if required) Apply 2 days before expected arrival date

(This is optional)

12.2 Order foreign currency It is strongly recommended to bring currency with you, espe-cially if you are taking a taxi from airport to accommodation.

13.2 Passport-sized pictures and Passport copies

It is recommended to bring 12 spare passport-sized pictures, with white background, with you for various reasons. Carrying a number of passport copies would also be advantageous.

13.4 Consider other documentation You may require your birth certificate, driving license etc.

ARRIVAL AT AIRPORT

4.4 Obtain your original

‘Entry Permit’ Have a copy of your ‘Entry Permit’ ready at the airport on arri-val.

3.2 Transfer from Airport to

Accommodation If you have not booked Marhaba‘ meet and greet service, please ensure you have UAE currency for taxi fare

3.3 Buy Telephone Mobile SIM card at the airport

You will require to provide your passport copy when you buy a mobile SIM card at any of the telecommunication providers.

WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT THE DUBAI CAMPUS

4.3 Submit additional ‘Student

Residence’ or ‘Short-Term’ Visa documentation to the Uni-versity.

Submit original passport and original ‘Entry Permit’, to the Visa Office, within 3 days of arriving in Dubai.

4.6 Attend medical test This is part of the visa requirements and will be arranged by the University. (not required for Short-Term visa)

9 Enrolment with the University As per email instructions to HWU account.

10 Attend induction meeting To be held on Thursday 7th September

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FORMS TO COMPLETE

Below is a list of forms for your completion. Once completed, return to the relevant office for appropriate action.

Medical Insurance Form https://www.hw.ac.uk/documents/dubai-stu-dent-medical-insurance.pdf

Apply 45 days before the start of the Academic Year. You can also obtain your own insurance. If applying for ‘Short-Term

visa, this must be arranged personally.

Student Transportation Form (if required) http://www.hw.ac.uk/documents/dubai-campus-transport-form.pdf

Apply 30 days before the start of the Academic Year accom-panied by the appropriate fee.

Student Accommodation Form (if re-quired) http://www.hw.ac.uk/documents/dubai-campus-accommodation-form.pdf

Apply 30 days before the start of the Academic Year accom-panied by the appropriate fee.

Meet and Greet Service (if required) http://www.marhabaservices.com

Apply online minimum of 2 days prior to travel.

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CONGRATULATIONS ON CHOOSING THE DUBAI CAMPUS

Dear Heriot-Watt University Student, It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the University’s Dubai Campus. Heriot-Watt University is proud to be here in the UAE, providing a range of high quality programmes, relevant to the Middle East re-gion, to the UAE and to the aspirations of its people. We wish to make your time with the University as happy and re-warding as possible and have produced this guide which will take you through a number of processes and also help you to settle in the UAE.

The University offers a wide range of services to help you deal with all aspects of your life with us, whether these are academic, personal, technical, financial or just plain fun! For further information on the services relevant to you, please refer to our ‘Student Guide’ handbook, which will be sent to you or found on our website. Do not hesitate to contact Sheelagh Wallace, Director of Administration and Campus Registrar, if you have any questions or concerns in relation to the information provided within this guide. Further contact details can be located later in this guide. I hope you will thoroughly enjoy your time in Dubai and I look forward to your arrival.

Sheelagh Wallace Director of Administration and Campus Registrar Telephone Number: 00971 (0) 56 106 5542 (mobile) 00971 (0) 435 8697 (office) Email Address: S.J.Wallace@hw.ac.uk

Professor Ammar Kaka Provost and Vice-Principal (Dubai), Heriot-Watt University

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1. THE DUBAI CAMPUS

1.1 INTRODUCTION

At the invitation of the Dubai authorities in February 2005, Heriot-Watt was the first international university to open its doors in Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) in 2005. The first cohort of 160 students was admitted in October 2005. Set in a purpose built campus of over 40,000 square feet in Academic City, Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus currently offers various academic programmes, both at Foundation, Undergraduate and Postgraduate level.

1.2 CONTACT DETAILS

The Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus contact details are: Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus Dubai International Academic City PO Box 294345 Dubai UAE Telephone: 00 971 4 4358700 Fax: 00 971 4 4477350 Web: www.hw.ac.uk/dubai

1.3 LOCATION

Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus is located at Dubai International Academic City. Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) is approximately 20 minutes from the Dubai business district, near Silicon Oasis.

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From Dubai and Abu Dhabi

- E311: Take the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and exit (44) taking the direction of Al-Ain Road (E66)

- E66: Continue in the direction of Al Ain until Junction 16 where you will see signs directing you to turn right onto Academic City Road (D54). (You will pass the Nad al Sheba Armed Forces Camp on your right hand side also).

- D54: Continue along Academic City Road, passing Sheikh Zayed University and The Higher College of Technology on your right. Go straight at the first roundabout, staying on Academic City Road.

- At the second roundabout, keep driving straight and you will see Heriot-Watt University Dubai Cam-pus on your right (there is no entrance from this road and therefore you must keep driving straight)

- Before the traffic signal, enter the slip road on the right. - Drive straight and then take the first right. Go straight at the small roundabout and you would reach

a T-junction. At the T-junction take a left and keep driving along the road. Take the second left and drive straight.

- You will now see Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus on your right. Enter through the first gate.

From Sharjah and Northern Emirates

- E311: Take the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and exit (50) onto Manama Street (D67) - Keep driving straight and you will reach a traffic signal. Go straight from the signal and then take the

first right. - Go straight at the small roundabout and you will reach a T-junction. At the T-junction take a left and

keep driving along the road. Take the second left and drive straight. - You will now see Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus on your right. Enter through the first gate.

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From Al Ain

- E66: Take the Al Ain Road (E66) in the direction of Dubai. Exit at Junction 16. - D54: Take Academic City Road (D54). - D54: Continue along Academic City Road, passing Sheikh Zayed University and The Higher

College of Technology on your right. Go straight at the first roundabout, staying on Academic City Road.

- At the second roundabout, keep driving straight and you will see Heriot-Watt University Du-bai Campus on your right (there is no entrance from this road and therefore you must keep driving straight)

- Before the traffic signal, enter the slip road on the right. - Drive straight and then take the first right. Go straight at the small roundabout and you would

reach a T-junction. At the T-junction take a left and keep driving along the road. Take the second left and drive straight.

- You will now see Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus on your right. Enter through the first gate.

1.4 FACILITIES

The University has an auditorium, classrooms, labs, computing and library facilities, student ac-commodation, gymnasium, food court and much more. There is also a shop and ATM on cam-pus with further cafes and restaurants located close by within DIAC.

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2. DATES FOR ACADEMIC YEAR 17/18

2.1 ENROLMENT, SEMESTER AND GRADUATION DATES

Event Start End

Welcome Week Sunday 3rd September 2017 Saturday 9th September 2017

Semester 1 - Teaching Sunday 10th September 2017 Saturday 2nd December 2017

Semester 1 - Examinations Sunday 3rd December 2017 Friday 15th December 2017

Semester 1 - Break Sunday 17th December 2017 Saturday 6th January 2018

Semester 2 - Teaching Sunday 7th January 2018 Saturday 31st March 2018

Semester 2 - Break Sunday 1st April 2018 Saturday 21st April 2018

Semester 2 - Examinations Sunday 22nd April 2018 Friday 18th May 2018

Graduation June/July 2018

Autumn Diet - Examinations (Resit)

Thursday 2nd August 2018 Friday 10th August 2018

Graduation November 2018

* Please note that all these dates are current at time of going to print but they are subject to change.

2.2 OFFICIAL UAE LOCAL HOLIDAYS

Local Holiday Advertised Date of Local Holiday

Arafat Day and Eid-al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) 1st – 3rd September 2017

Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year) 22nd September 2017

Commemoration Day / Martyr’s Day

and Mouloud (Prophet’s Birthday)

30th November 2017

UAE National Day 2nd December 2017

New Year’s Day 1st January 2018

Leilat al-Meiraj (Ascension of the Prophet) 13th April 2018

Eid-Al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) 14th –15th June 2018

* All dates given, especially for Islamic holidays and special observations, are approximate dates only and will be confirmed nearer the time, along with any University closed days.

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3. TRAVELLING TO THE UAE AND DUBAI CAMPUS

3.1. FLIGHTS TO THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Due to the proximity of the Dubai Campus, the University recommends that you arrange your arrival into Dubai International (DXB) Airport. Dubai is the second largest airport in the world and has hundreds of flights arriving and leaving Dubai on a daily basis. You are advised to look at the following airline* websites for costings and also booking your flight:

Departing from UK Departing from Malaysia

Emirates Airline (www.Emirates.com)

Glasgow to Dubai Airport

Singapore Airlines (www.singaporeair.com)

Kuala Lumpur to Dubai

British Airways (www.Britishairways.com) Ed-

inburgh to London to Dubai

Qatar Airways (www.qatarairways.com)

Kuala Lumpur to Dubai

KLM (www.KLM.com)

Edinburgh to Amsterdam to Dubai

Thai Airways (www.thaiairways.com)

Kuala Lumpur to Dubai

Sri Lankan Airlines (www.srilankan.com)

Kuala Lumpur to Dubai

Biman Bangladesh Airlines (www.biman-air-

lines.com)

Kuala Lumpur to Dubai

* Please note that this is not an exhaustive list.

3.2 TRANSFER FROM AIRPORT TO DUBAI CAMPUS AND/OR ACCOMMODATION

You can apply for a ‘meet and greet’ service. The service includes transfer to your accommo-dation (see Section 6: Meet and Greet Service). If you have decided not to use the ‘meet and greet’ service, you will be required to hire a taxi to transfer to your accommodation. There will be a taxi rank outside the Terminal and plenty taxis are available. Please note that you should use a RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) taxi. You may be offered a private taxi, which will be more expensive, however we would suggest that you use the metered RTA taxi. The taxi service can be booked over telephone by dialling +971 4-2080808. The taxi will take approximately: - 20 - 25 minutes to our University on-campus accommodation (approx 70 AED) - 20 - 25 minutes to Uninest Accommodation (approx 70 AED) - 10 - 15 minutes to Etisalat Academy (approx 50 AED)

3.3. MOBILE TELPEHONE SIM CARD

It is advised to buy a mobile SIM card at the airport upon arrival. Telecommunication provid-ers such as DU and ETISALAT have shops in the arrival halls of the airport. You will be re-quired to provide a copy of your passport upon purchase. Likely cost is approximately 50 AED.

4. VISA

All students (except GCC nationals) must have a visa to study at Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus. The University will provide assistance and support to students who require a visa to study at the Dubai Campus. You must obtain the visa before entering the country if you are travelling from outside the UAE.

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There are two types of visa. The majority of students will be required to obtain a 12 month ‘Student Residence’ visa however if you are only studying at the Dubai Campus for 1 Semester, it is advised to obtain a ‘Short-Term’ visa. See below for further details. 4.1 STUDENT RESIDENCE VISA (12 MONTH)

If you are coming to study at the Dubai Campus for a full Academic Year, you will need to apply for a 12 month visa. This is a multiple entry visa, allowing for entry and exit from the UAE at any time during your stay. You will be required to have medical insurance during your period of study in the UAE. Further information is contained later in this handbook. The likely cost of this visa will be AED 2790 plus a refundable deposit of AED 3000.

4.2 SHORT-TERM VISA (2 MONTH)

If you are coming to study at the Dubai Campus for Semester 1, it is advisable to apply for a short-term visa. This is a single entry visa. If you wish to return to your own country or exit to any other country, before the expiration of your visa, you will need to apply for a new visa to al-low you entry back into the UAE. As this visa is only 2 months in length, you will be required to renew your visa for an additional 2 months, to cover the full Semester (Sept until Dec). The likely cost of this visa (including 1 renewal) will be AED 2350 plus a refundable deposit of 3000 AED. If you studying at the Dubai Campus for Semester 2, it is advisable to apply for the ‘Student Residence’ visa (12 months) due to having to renew the ‘Short-Term’ visa, twice to cover Janu-ary to end of May. You will be required to have medical insurance during your period of study in the UAE. Further information is contained later in this handbook.

The cost to renew twice, would be approximately AED 3550 plus refundable deposit of AED 3000.

4.3 DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED PRIOR TO ARRIVAL IN UAE

Once you have been accepted to transfer to the Dubai Campus, you will be sent a Visa Appli-cation form to complete and return to us as soon as possible. Other documentation required is listed below: - Completed Visa Application form - Completed Student Undertaking letter - Clear Passport copy (You must have a valid passport for 6 months) - A scanned passport colour photograph with white background (JPEG format, max file size 30kb)

- Confirmation of Medical Insurance to cover visa period (either arranged by University or personally)

All paperwork should reach the University, 45 days prior to the start of the programme (or asap).

4.4 ENTRY PERMIT

As part of your ‘Student Residence Visa’ or ‘Short-Term’ visa, you will receive an ‘Entry Permit’. Prior to your departure to Dubai and once all documentation has been submitted for your Visa, the University will send you a scanned copy of your ‘Entry Permit’. This will enable you to enter the country. You must take a copy of this document to the airport with you to gain entry into the UAE. On your arrival at the airport, you must go to the Immigration Desk and hand over your pass-port and also the copy of your ‘Entry Permit’ to Immigration Staff. You will then be guided to the Visa Collection Desk, where you will collect your original ‘Entry Permit’. Once through Im-migration, you will exit and proceed to baggage claim. Keep your original ‘Entry Permit’ in a safe place as you are required to submit this to the University within 3 days.

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There is a service that will assist you at the airport with all the formalities. Please refer to Sec-tion 6: Meet and Greet Service.

4.5 SUBMIT ADDITIONAL VISA DOCUMENTATION TO THE UNIVERSITY To process your ‘Student Residence Visa’ or ‘Short-Term Visa’, the University requires addi-

tional information to be submitted to the Visa Office, once you arrive in the UAE. The additional documentation will be your original passport and original ‘Entry Permit’ you re-

ceived at the airport. Please ensure that you submit this information to the Visa Office within 3 days of arriving in Dubai.

4.6 MEDICAL TEST (Not required for ‘Short-Term Visas’)

Once all documentation has been submitted for your ‘Student Residence Visa’, you will be required to attend a government hospital or medical clinic for a health check. The medical check is a blood test and chest X-ray for HIV (AIDS), Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Tuberculosis (TB), Leprosy, and Syphilis. If results come back positive for any of these conditions, it is likely that you will be deported. If you are at all nervous about the possibility of testing posi-tive, it is advised to get tested in your home country before you arrive in Dubai. The University will arrange for you to be taken to the hospital/clinic for these tests. There are a number of forms and formalities to be completed however the Visa staff will assist you with the required documentation.

Please note that if you are coming to the Dubai Campus for one Semester only and applied for a ‘Short-Term’ visa, you will not require a medical test.

4.7 VISA COMPLETION

Following your approved medical test (if required), your ‘Student Residence Visa’ or ‘Short-Term Visa’ will be entered into your passport. The Visa is valid for either 2 or 12 months, depending on your length of study in Dubai. If you are studying at the Dubai Campus for one Semester, and applied for a ‘Short-Term visa’, you will be required to renew your visa after the 2 months. The Visa Office will assist with this process (see below).

Please be aware that the visa is only valid if you continue to study on a full-time structured programme at the Campus.

4.8 EMIRATES ID CARD (Not issued for ‘Short-Term Visas)

Dubai has introduced a UAE ID card and it is mandatory for all residences to be in possession of this card. It is an electronic card issued by the Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA). It contains an electronic chip that stores vital information about the cardholder such as name, date of birth, nationality, marital status, photo, fingerprint data, electronic signature etc.

The process for obtaining your card will be carried out following the approval of your medical test (if required). You will be required to visit the EIDA Offices to have your finger prints and pictures taken. Once complete, you will receive your EIDA Card. Please keep in a safe place as you may be charged a fine, by Dubai Authorities, if you are not in possession of this card when you cancel your visa.

Please note that if you are coming to the Dubai Campus for one Semester only and applied

for the ‘Short-Term Visa’, you will not require an Emirates ID Card. 4.9 REQUIREMENTS UNDER A STUDENT RESIDENCE VISA (Not required for ‘Short-Term Visas) The Dubai Campus is able to provide a ‘Student Residence Visa for students studying on a

full-time, on any of our academic programmes. There is an obligation, on the part of the stu-dent and the University, to ensure that they are complying with visa requirements in connec-tion with study and attendance at University.

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The University, as part of their responsibilities, must inform the Government Services Office

(Dubai Government) if you are not in attendance at University, for 14 days or more. To enable the University to monitor the attendance of University sponsored students, biometric fingerprint scanning will be in use.

4.10 VISA RENEWAL

The procedure for renewal of a Student Residence Visa is the same process as applying for a new visa with only minor changes to the medical test. The Emirates ID biometric process is not required for renewal. Meanwhile, the medical test and Emirates ID are not required to renew a ‘Short-Term Visa’.

4.11 VISA CANCELLATION (Not required for ‘Short-Term Visas’)

A ‘Student Residence Visa’ must be cancelled immediately upon completing/leaving your pro-gramme of study and before leaving the UAE. The process will take approximately 10 – 15 working days. To cancel, you must submit your original passport and Emirates ID card, 15 days prior to expiry or leaving/completing your programme of study (if before expiry date). The cost for this is approximately 450 AED.

5. MEDICAL INSURANCE

It is mandatory to obtain medical insurance for both short term visa students and those sponsored by the University. You are requested to submit a copy of the Policy with your ‘Student Residence or ‘Short-Term’ Visa documentation, 45 days prior to the start of the programme. For 12-month residence visa students, the University can arrange your medical insurance, please com-plete the application form, accompanied by the appropriate fee.

Medical Insurance Form https://www.hw.ac.uk/documents/dubai-student-medical-insurance.pdf

6. MEET AND GREET SERVICE (if required) 6.1 INTRODUCTION

If you are arriving at Dubai International Airport, a service is available that will guide you through

all airport arrival procedures such as visa (Student Entry Permit) collection, eye-scan, Immigra-tion clearance, baggage claim and transfer you from the airport to your accommodation. There are 3 different levels of service and an additional cost. Please refer to www.marhabas-ervices.com.

6.2 ARRIVAL AT THE AIRPORT If you have chosen to use the ‘meet and greet’ service, a member of airport staff will meet you

either off the aircraft or before Immigration. They will escort you through all the formalities re-quired. Please ensure that you have a copy of your ‘Student Entry Permit’ available to give to Immigration staff.

Keep your original ‘Student Entry Permit’ in a safe place as you are required to submit this to

the University within 3 days of arrival. 6.3 TRANSPORTATION TO ACCOMMODATION If you have booked the ‘Marhaba Service’, you will be transported to your accommodation.

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7. STUDENT ACCOMMODATION (if required)

As a transfer student, the University will provide you with accommodation on-campus for your time with us if you stay in Dubai Campus for the entire Academic Year. Off campus accommodations are also available. Etisalat Academy, Uninest, Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), Dubai International City are options available. Please below for further information.

The appropriate application form (found at: http://www.hw.ac.uk/documents/dubai-campus-accommo-dation-form.pdf) should be submitted to the University on or before 1 August 2017, accompanied by the appropriate fee.

On-Campus Accommodation at the Dubai Campus

For further information on our on-campus accommoda-tion, please refer to: https://www.hw.ac.uk/dubai/accommodation.htm

Off-Campus Accommodation at Etisalat Academy

The 250+ room residence is located 10 minutes from Dubai International Airport and 5 minutes from Mirdiff City Mall. For further information on our on-campus accom-modation, please refer to: https://www.hw.ac.uk/dubai/accommodation.htm

Off Campus Accommodation at Uninest

The Uninest Residences are located in Dubai land, a 10 minute drive from the campus Further information can be found at: http://www.un-

inest.ae

Off Campus Accommodation at Dubai Silicon Oa-sis

The new Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) Student Ac-commodation, which is 5-10 minute drive from the campus. Further information can be found at http://gowin.me/

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8. STUDENT TRANSPORT (if required)

If you are organising accommodation that is not provided by the University, you may require to use our transport service. We offer a transport service to the campus from the following areas within Dubai and also other Emir-ates: - International City, Dubai Silison Oasis, Satwa, Bur Dubai, Karama, Deira, Rashidiya and Mirdiff - Barsha, Emirates Hills, Marina, Sports City, Arabian Ranches, Dubai Investment Park, Greens and

Gardens - Ghusais, Sharjah and Ajman - Abu Dhabi and Al Ain

The service operates five days per week, Sun-

day – Thursday, and pick-up times vary de-

pending on the number of students and the

distance to campus. For further information,

please refer to https://www.hw.ac.uk/du-

bai/transport.htm

The appropriate application form (found at: http://www.hw.ac.uk/documents/dubai-cam-pus-transport-form.pdf) should be submitted to the University on or before 1 August 2017, ac-companied by the appropriate fee.

9. ENROLMENT AND PAYMENT OF TUITION FEES WITH THE UNIVERSITY It is essential that you part-enrol online before you arrive. To do this, please visit

www.hw.ac.uk/onlineenrolment. Further information will be provided to you nearer the time with regards to your programme of study.

You will have a chance to speak to your academic staff members during the induction sessions prior to commencing studies (date to be confirmed).

With regards to payment of your tuition fees, students pay the fee of the campus they are transferring to. If you are a Scottish or EU student funded by SAAS, your fees are paid to the UK campus as nor-mal, even though you will be studying at an overseas campus. Similarly, students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland (RUK) apply for funding and fees are paid to the UK campus. Self-funded students should pay fees direct to the Finance Office at the Dubai Campus prior to completing the en-rolment process.

9.1 PAYMENT OPTIONS

For students funded by SAAS or any other agency, you are required to submit a copy of your approved funding letter to the Finance Office at the Dubai Campus via email at: Dubai-fi-nance@hw.ac.uk :

For self-funded students, the following options are available to pay tuition fees:

Cash

Credit Card (in person only)

Bank Transfer

Post-dated cheques (payable in Dubai)

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You will be required to pay the first instalment (equivalent to 10% of the annual (or Semester) fee along with a refundable security deposit of AED 1,000). You can pay either in cash or by local cheque made payable to Heriot-Watt University or by bank transfer to: Bank Transfer details

Account Name: Heriot-Watt University Bank Name: HSBC Bank Middle East Bank Address: PO Box 66, Dubai, UAE Swift Code: BBMEAEAD Account Number (AED): 030035307200 (IBAN : AE250200000030035307200) Account Number (USD): 030035307211 (IBAN : AE190200000030035307211)

You will need to meet any bank charges incurred for any fees paid through credit card, bank/telegraphic transfer etc. in addition to the fee itself. For further details, please check with your bank when transferring the funds. For further details on fee payment and instalment plans, please contact the Finance Office at Dubai-Finance@hw.ac.uk.

10. INDUCTION EVENTS

During your first few days on-campus, you will be invited to attend some induction sessions. This will be to welcome you and inform you about the services and facilities we have on-campus.

You will also be able to ask any questions you may have in relation to your academic programme, ser-vices on-campus or about Dubai and the UAE in general. The induction schedule will include:

- Meeting with various staff, including the Vice-Principal (Dubai) and other professional services and

academic staff (lunch provided) - Meeting with Dubai Student President and members of Student Council - Tour of the Campus - Visa and Accommodation presentations - Social event in the evening (TBC)

You will also receive information relating to our Welcome Week events, and are more than welcome to participate.

11. GO GLOBAL BURSARIES

Students transferring to the Dubai Campus can apply for a Go-Global Scholarship. If successful, this will be paid before your arrival at the Campus. Please note that this scholarship is not offered to stu-dents who wish to permanently transfer to the Dubai Campus.

12. INTERNSHIPS AND PART-TIME WORKING

12.1 INTERNSHIPS

You may wish to enhance your career prospects whilst studying at the Dubai Campus and un-dertake an internship. The Careers Advisory Service (CAS) will be able to assist you with the process. If you are interested, it would be beneficial to meet with the CAS in your home (UK or Malaysian) campus before travelling to ensure that you are prepared with your CV etc. Please note that internships are rarely paid.

12.2 PART-TIME WORKING Where part-time work was previously not permitted for students, as of June 2016, students are

able to take paid, part-time employment whilst sponsored by the University.

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Further information can be sought from the Careers Advisory Service, located within the Student Expe-rience and Development Office or email at K.Taylor@hw.ac.uk.

13. GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT DUBAI AND UAE

13.1 MOBILE PHONES

Etisalat (www.etisalat.ae) and Du (www.du.ae) are the main telecommunications service provid-ers in the UAE. A pre-paid SIM card can be purchased from any Etisalat or Du office, large supermarkets or in the arrivals hall of Dubai International Airport. There are tourist Sims for 30 days which can be converted later.

For further information on deals, please refer to www.etisalat.ae and www.du.ae .

13.2 CURRENCY AND PAYMENTS

The currency in Dubai is Dirhams and fils. To check the conversion rate, go to

http://www.xe.com/ucc/full.shtml. A Dirham (Dhs), is divided into 100 fils. The currency is also referred to as AED (Arab Emirate Dirham). You can get Dirhams through your own bank or other outlets that deal with travel currency. You can also use ATMs in Dubai. Most major credit cards are accepted in shops and restaurants in Dubai (charges may apply).

It is wise to bring some currency with you when you arrive. This is essential if you are not

applying for the ‘meet and greet’ service and will require to get a taxi from the airport to your accommodation. For further information on this journey, refer to page 10.

13.3 WEATHER

Dubai has a sub-tropical and arid climate – it’s hot and sunny, so light clothing is advisable.

Rainfall is very infrequent and falls mainly in the winter (Dec - Feb). Check the CNN or BBC Weather reports or other internet sites for the latest temperatures.

13.4 TIME DIFFERENCE

From the UAE, the time difference between United Kingdom (GMT) is -3 hours in summer, -4

hours in winter. Malaysia is +4 hours difference.

13.5 WORKING WEEK / WEEKEND The normal working week is Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday being the weekend

however this may vary depending on teaching. The University is open every day during Semes-ter time.

13.6 RELIGION

Islam is the official religion of the UAE. The Islamic holy day is Friday. While the predominant

religion is Islam, Dubai is tolerant of many other denominations. Ramadan is the holy month in which Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Holy Quran (the holy book of Islam). During this time, Muslims abstain from all food, drink, cigarettes and unclean thoughts/activities be-tween dawn and dusk. During this time, non-Muslims are also required to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public places during daylight hours as a sign of respect.

13.7 TRANSPORT AROUND DUBAI

Dubai has a fairly large bus system however the most commonly used means of transport is

taxis. You can hail a taxi from the roadside, but make sure it is a registered taxi. Alternatively, you can phone for a taxi from Dubai Transport on: 04 2080808. If you are getting a taxi to Dubai International Academic City, check first that the driver knows where it is. The Dubai Metro is a fully automated driverless metro network, with numerous stations open.

For further information about public transport and Dubai, please access the following websites:

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- www.RTA.ae - www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g295424-Dubai-Vacations.html - www.dubaitourism.ae

13.8 CODE OF CONDUCT

There are certain UAE and Dubai laws that you will be required to follow whilst studying at the Dubai Campus. In particular, the Dubai International Academic City Code of Conduct. For further information please refer to http://www.diacedu.ae/student-services/code-of-conduct

14. OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER

14.1 REGISTER WITH THE EMBASSY

On arrival, you may want to register with the embassy. To find your Embassy, please visit www.embassiesabroad.com and then click through to the relevant Embassy website for instruc-tions on how to register.

14.2 PASSPORT COPY and PASSPORT-SIZED PICTURES It is normal practice to be asked for a passport copy or passport-sized pictures when you are applying for certain services (pre-paid mobile phone etc) Please note that there are many photo shops around Dubai that will take your picture however it may be wise to bring these with you.

14.3 ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES The majority of appliances bought in the UAE, will have a 2-hole pin. Adaptors are easily avail-able to ensure all electrical equipment using a 3-hole pin is compatible. The standard capacity in UAE is 220 volts.

14.4 OTHER DOCUMENTATION Depending on what you are planning to do in the UAE, you may require your birth certificate (attested), driving license etc. It is advised to bring these with you. If you are able to bring copies of these documents also, it is advised. If not, don’t worry, you can photocopy/scan them at the Campus. As a security measure, it is worth keeping copies (or scanned versions) of all your essential documents in a safe place, should you be unfortunate to lose the original.

14.5 OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT For non-residents, most banks in the UAE allow you to open a saving accounts and given a debit card. It is possible that a bank will decide to run a background check before allowing you to open a bank account. Banks will require your original passport and visa copy to open an account.

14.6 DRIVING

Obtaining a UAE Driving License Once you become a UAE resident, you are required to hold a UAE driving license to buy or hire a car. (Short-Term visa students can hire a car as a tourist) The RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) allows license holders of certain countries to transfer (or exchange) their valid license to a UAE license. If you have a UK license, the process is quite simple. You will be required to have an eye test therefore ensure that you bring your correct prescription if you wear glasses or contact lenses. For other licenses, please refer to www.RTA.ae.

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Hiring a Car in the UAE There are many hire companies in Dubai, if you prefer to rent a car during your stay the require-ments include:

- being over the age of 21 - holding a valid driving license for more than six months prior to rental

Dependent upon the provider, security deposits may be required. Authorised Driver Only the authorised drivers can drive cars owned and rented by us. An authorised driver is the person who has paid for the car and provided the required documents. Any additional authorised drivers will be required to submit a copy of their documents of identification, driving license and other required documents.

15. USEFUL CONTACTS

In case of an emergency, you should dial Police – 999, Ambulance - 998/999 and Fire 997

Department Contact Tel No. 00 971 (0) 4 435

Email Address

Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus

Reception

8700

DubaiEnquiries@hw.ac.uk

Dubai Student Service Centre

Mrs Therese Cooper O’Dell

04 561 0311/12

DubaiStudentServices@hw.ac.uk

Accommodation Mr Anil Kumar 8623 Dubaistudentaccommodation@hw.ac.uk

Careers Advisory Service Mrs Kathryn Taylor 8791 K.Taylor@hw.ac.uk

Finance Mr Suresh Kumar 8675 Dubai-Finance@hw.ac.uk

IT Helpdesk Mr Nidhish Cherian 8681 dubaihelpdesk@hw.ac.uk

Transport Mr Anil Kumar 8621 Anil.kumar@hw.ac.uk

Visa Mr Ilyas Abdul Wahab 8628 dubaivisa@hw.ac.uk

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DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY

Whilst every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this guide at the time of going to press, the University wishes to emphasise that the programmes, facilities and other arrangements for students described in this publication are regularly reviewed and are naturally subject to change from time to time.

The University accordingly reserves the right without notice to vary the content of the programmes and fees

previously announced and to modify as seems appropriate the facilities and arrangements for students.

Any changes will be incorporated in subsequent editions of this book and applicants and students should enquire

as to the up-to-date position when they need to know this.

The University also gives notice that it will not accept liability for any loss or injury sustained by a student whether

in connection with their studies or not.

May 2017

Heriot-Watt University is a registered Trademark.

The Pennant logo is a trademark of the University.

Neither can be used useless prior written permission has been obtained. All information correct at the time of

going to print. Printed on environmentally friendly paper.

© Heriot-Watt University. All rights reserved.

Thank you to all staff who contributed to this guide.