Dubai: The number of students going to UK universities from the UAE has been rising since 2002, despite constraints of tightened visa regulations.

There were 3,145 UAE students studying in the UK for the 2011 academic year, which represents an increase of 126 per cent of students studying in the UK since 2002.

The figures were released on the sidelines of the 13th edition of the Education UK Exhibition ‘EDUKEX 2012’ which is organised by the British Council.

At this year’s event, more than 50 UK universities and specialist colleges will showcase a wide range of foundation-year, bachelors and masters courses. Visitors will also get an ideal opportunity to learn about English language courses, vocational courses and higher education courses

The four-day event which will take place from 11-13 November will include a one-day event in Abu Dhabi which will be opened by the British Ambassador to the UAE, Dominic Jermey on November 11 in Beach Rotana Hotel, and another event in Dubai which will be inaugurated by British Consul General in Dubai, Edward Hobart, on November 12 in Al Murooj Rotana Hotel.

“We expect over 1,500 visitors to attend the show and interact with exhibitors, some of whom will also be making presentations on various pathways to entry to a UK programme,” said Lara Khouri, Education UK Marketing Manager at the British Council UAE.