New three-year programme combines world-class facilities, industry partnerships, scholarships of up to AED 50,000, more benefits and real-world experience to prepare students for careers across the global music industry.
Dubai, UAE – August , 2026: SAE University College, a global leader in creative media education, has launched Dubai’s first accredited Bachelor of Music degree, giving aspiring musicians, producers, songwriters and entrepreneurs the opportunity to earn an internationally recognized qualification without leaving the city.
The launch comes at a pivotal moment for the UAE’s creative economy. Under the UAE National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries, the country aims to increase the sector’s contribution to 5% of GDP by 2031, while the wider region’s music industry continues to experience rapid growth, with recorded music revenues across MENA increasing by 15.2% in 2025. Against this backdrop, the new degree will help develop the next generation of creative talent equipped to support one of the region’s fastest-growing industries.
Applications are now open for the September 2026 intake, with additional intakes available in February and May 2027. To support aspiring musicians, SAE University is offering scholarships of up to AED 50,000, and more benefits.
Officially starting in September 2026, the full-time programme spans three years and has been designed to equip students with the creative, technical and entrepreneurial skills required to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving music industry.
Combining practical learning, industry collaboration and project-based education, the degree covers songwriting, electronic music production, studio production, stagecraft, live performance, creative musicianship, entrepreneurship and music business. Students will build a professional portfolio while gaining valuable workplace experience through a major industry project.
Students will learn using SAE University College’s professional-standard studios, equipment and software while working alongside experienced academics and music professionals in an environment that reflects today’s music business. The programme has also been developed in collaboration with leading partners, including Melody House, Muzikminds and internationally acclaimed Hungarian-American songwriter, music producer and artist and television personality, Miklos Malek, helping ensure graduates develop the skills employers are looking for from day one.
Jan Horn, Managing Director of SAE University College Dubai, said: “The UAE has established itself as one of the world’s most exciting creative economies and as that sector continues to grow, so does the demand for highly skilled creative professionals. We’re proud to launch Dubai’s first accredited Bachelor of Music degree, giving aspiring musicians the opportunity to earn an internationally recognised qualification without leaving the city.
As the UAE continues investing in its creative economy, it’s vital that talented young musicians can develop their skills, build industry connections and pursue international careers from right here in Dubai.
“This programme combines creative excellence with real-world experience. Students will collaborate, produce, perform and build professional portfolios, graduating with the confidence and practical skills to pursue careers across today’s global music industry.”
Graduates will be prepared for careers in music production, songwriting, composition, artist development, audio engineering, live performance, music supervision, entertainment, content creation and music business, while developing the creative and commercial skills increasingly valued across the wider creative economy.
Zubin Aroz, Head of Department – Music, SAE University College Dubai, added: “Music has never been more entrepreneurial or technology-driven than it is today. Our goal is to help students discover their creative voice while giving them technical expertise and professional confidence to build sustainable careers.
“By working with industry-standard technology, experienced mentors and leading partners from across the music ecosystem, students will graduate ready to shape the future of the music industry.”
As demand for skilled professionals across creative industries continues to grow, the programme marks a milestone in SAE University College’s commitment to developing the next generation of music talent in the UAE.
Applications are now open for the September 2026 intake, with additional intakes available for February and May 2027. Applicants must meet the University’s admissions requirements. SAE University College is also offering scholarships for up to AED 50,000 to support aspiring music students.
