Saudi students: Five reasons to choose Melbourne over the UK

Deciding where to study abroad is a big decision to make, so why are Saudi students and their families choosing Australia over the UK?

With recent changes to visa laws now preventing international students from bringing their dependants with them to the UK, Australia has become an even more desirable study destination, particularly for Saudi Arabian students.

“I arrived in Melbourne from Riyadh in 2018 to study the Master of Engineering (Electronic Engineering),” says Salman Alduwish, who is now a PhD candidate at RMIT.

With his wife and three young children accompanying him, Salman notes that he and his family were “drawn to Melbourne for it’s welcoming atmosphere, quality of life, and many opportunities for growth.”

And there’s so much more to love about this vibrant city.

Here are five reasons why Melbourne is such an enviable location for those looking to further their studies.

Image of Salman Alduwish at RMIT University

#1: The cultural diversity and inclusivity

Each year, more than 170,000 international students from over 170 different countries come to study in Victoria. With Melbourne playing host to thousands of students from all over the world, it has fast become one of the most welcoming and multicultural cities in Australia.

“I feel really connected to and embraced by the RMIT community in Melbourne,” says Salman.

“RMIT's Multifaith and Wellbeing Centre has been an especially valuable resource. It provides a welcoming and inclusive space where I can connect meaningfully with my faith. It’s important for maintaining a sense of balance and connection to my culture while studying abroad, and it's also a great place to practice mindfulness.”

In addition to the Multifaith and Wellbeing Centre, RMIT provides international students with many other support services, like academic mentoring, counselling, and career services. You can even book in for a one-on-one consultation with an international adviser, who can help with any questions you might have about relocating from the Middle East, living costs in Melbourne, scholarships, entry requirements and more.

#2: The safe and accessible city

In the 2023 Global Liveability Index by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Melbourne was ranked as the 3rd most liveable city in the world, and the most liveable city in Australia. The EIU assessed 173 cities based on 5 categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. Melbourne achieved a score of 100/100 for education, healthcare and infrastructure, along with an outstanding rating for culture and environment (95.8/100). These numbers reflect the accessibility of our public transport, our passion for art, music and sport, and the quality of our educational institutions.

“The safety and security my family experiences here [in Melbourne] is amazing,” says Salman.

“It’s so easy to get around on public transport, and the trams are such an iconic part of the city!”

Image of Melbourne City over Princes Bridge

#3: The family-friendly spaces

Though one of Salman’s favourite things about Melbourne is the energy and vibrancy of the city, he also loves the peace and tranquility of the urban spaces he can enjoy with his family.

Major institutions like the Melbourne Museum and the National Gallery of Victoria are designed with families in mind, with dedicated spaces, exhibits and activities for kids. Additionally, Melbourne’s city centre is surrounded by a number of sprawling parklands, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Carlton Gardens.

“As a father, my greatest aspiration is providing my children with a life of excellence. Melbourne is an ideal city for children and toddlers, offering exceptional educational opportunities, a rich tapestry of cultural activities, and unparalleled living standards.”

And although Salman enjoys spending as much time as possible with his family, when work or study commitments mean he’s not able to look after them, the RMIT Children’s Centre provides care options for children between the ages of three months and five years.

#4: The world-renowned culinary scene

In Melbourne — a city famous for its world-class coffee — the cafes, restaurants and bars are always buzzing. And the cultural diversity of the city is reflected in the array of different cuisines on offer. From Vietnamese phở to Brazilian barbeque, the options for dining out in Melbourne are limitless.

“Although I have a particular weakness for Melbourne’s Italian restaurants, I’m always eager to immerse myself in the culinary landscape this place has to offer. As an RMIT student, there’s so much to try, because the campus is in the middle of the city,” says Salman.

Within walking distance of RMIT’s City campus, you’ll find iconic landmarks like the Queen Victoria Market or Melbourne’s Chinatown. And for those students on a budget, we’ve put together a list of the best cheap eats in town.

image-of-chinatown-in-melbourne-after-dark

#5: The educational opportunities

Melbourne is home to some of the region's best educational institutions, including RMIT, which is ranked in the top 150 universities worldwide¹.

“Studying my master's at RMIT gave me lots of opportunities for hands-on learning,” says Salman.

“For my master’s research project, I designed and developed a bandpass filter for 5G applications. My supervisor gave me guidance and mentorship, and valuable advice and feedback that helped shape my research direction... I collaborate on projects and share ideas with my colleagues, and we learn from each other. There’s lots of teamwork, and that’s invaluable in tackling the complex challenges that come with research.”

After developing a strong interest in electronics engineering throughout his master's degree, Salman decided to continue his studies at RMIT and take on a PhD.

“My PhD focuses on designing a sensor for detecting soil properties. I’m using advanced materials and fabrication methods, like 3D printing and microfluidics, to develop a sensor that meets the specific requirements of soil property measurement. RMIT’s amazing laboratories and specialist equipment allow me to conduct these advanced experiments and research.”

So what’s next for Salman once he graduates?

My time in Melbourne has really broadened my horizons and prepared me to excel in my career back home. After completing my PhD, I plan to return to Saudi Arabia to continue my job there. I’m excited to apply the knowledge and skills that I’ve gained, and make a positive impact in my field.

Story: Sophie MacGillivray

¹ QS World University Rankings 2024

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

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