25 Best Fully Funded Scholarships in United Arab Emirates for International Students: UAE Scholarships 2025-2026 to Study in Abu Dhabi

Are you searching for fully funded scholarships in the United Arab Emirates for international students in 2026?

The UAE offers extensive educational opportunities through government initiatives, university programs, and private foundations.

The UAE’s Digital School will enroll more than one million students by 2026.
Scholarships are available for talented students across multiple institutions.

The UAE education sector provides comprehensive funding for international students.
Prestigious universities and specialized institutions offer these opportunities.

You can access scholarships that cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
These scholarships are available for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs.

UAE philanthropies support education through research, scholarships, teacher training, and infrastructure development.
This creates diverse funding opportunities for international applicants.

Table: Top 10 UAE Scholarships offered in 2025-2026

1) United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) International Scholarship

United Arab Emirates University is the UAE’s premier national institution.
You can secure fully funded scholarships that transform your academic dreams into reality.

UAEU is located in Al Ain, the UAE’s garden city.
You will experience a blend of traditional Emirati culture and world-class academic excellence.

The international scholarship program targets high-achieving students worldwide.
You will join a diverse academic community and access top-tier resources.

Scholarship Overview & Financial Coverage

Application Timeline & Deadlines

You can apply through the UAEU online portal starting in fall 2025.
The scholarship program supports research and academic excellence across multiple disciplines.

Key application requirements:

• Minimum GPA of 3.7
• English proficiency
• Compelling research proposals
• Academic transcripts
• Recommendation letters

The scholarship renews annually based on your academic performance and research progress.
You will contribute to groundbreaking research initiatives.

2) Khalifa University Fully Funded Scholarships

Khalifa University of Science and Technology is the UAE’s leading research institution.
You can receive fully funded scholarships covering 100% of tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.

Join a university ranked among the top research-intensive institutions in the UAE.
You will benefit from cutting-edge facilities and world-class faculty.

Located in Abu Dhabi, you will access state-of-the-art research institutes and laboratories.
The university specializes in STEM fields—perfect for engineering, science, or technology degrees.

Key Scholarship Benefits & Requirements

Application Timeline & Deadlines

Start your journey with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
Demonstrate research potential to stand out.

English proficiency:

• IELTS 6.5
• TOEFL 79

You will need two academic references and a strong personal statement.
Showcase your research interests and career goals clearly.

3) American University of Sharjah Merit-Based Scholarships

American University of Sharjah (AUS) ranks among the top 10 universities in the UAE.
You can access fully funded merit-based scholarships for exceptional international students.

AUS offers 100% tuition coverage plus living allowances.
You will receive a US-accredited education in the heart of the Middle East.

The university holds AACSB and ABET accreditation for business and engineering programs.
You will benefit from high educational standards and global recognition.

Scholarship Coverage and Financial Benefits

You receive support for tuition, housing, meals, and textbooks.
AUS awards scholarships based on academic excellence and standardized test scores.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Application opens: October 2025
Priority deadline: January 15, 2026
Final deadline: March 1, 2026

Submit your application through the AUS online portal by the priority deadline.
AUS reviews applications on a rolling basis starting in December 2025.

Merit scholarships renew annually if you maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete required credit hours.
You can combine merit awards with external scholarships for more funding.

4) University of Dubai Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship

The University of Dubai offers fully funded master’s scholarships.
You receive 100% tuition fees, living expenses, and academic support.

You can pursue advanced degrees in business, engineering, and information technology.
This scholarship targets exceptional international students.

Located in Dubai’s business district, you study in a dynamic educational hub.
The university partners with leading international trade organizations.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits

You receive priority access to internships with Dubai’s top corporations.
The scholarship includes mentorship and guaranteed networking opportunities.

Application Requirements and Timeline

You must show leadership potential and a strong commitment to Dubai’s knowledge economy.

The selection committee looks for innovative research ideas and entrepreneurial vision.

This scholarship supports scholars and postgraduate students who display exceptional academic merit and research potential.

5) Mohammed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence Scholarships

Mohammed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) is the world’s first graduate-level, research-based AI university.

You benefit from 100% fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and research opportunities.

Located in Abu Dhabi, UAE, MBZUAI gives you access to state-of-the-art facilities and world-class faculty.

The university focuses on artificial intelligence and machine learning research, driving global innovation.

Key Scholarship Benefits & Requirements

Available Programs & Research Areas

You can pursue Master’s and PhD degrees in three specialized tracks.

Programs include Computer Vision, Machine Learning, and Natural Language Processing.

You work with faculty from top institutions like MIT, Stanford, and Carnegie Mellon.

Research opportunities let you collaborate with government and private sector partners.

The UAE’s artificial intelligence initiatives offer extensive funding for student research.

Your application should show strong academic credentials and a passion for AI research.

International students get access to special scholarships for study abroad programs in the UAE. priority consideration for these prestigious awards.

6) Abu Dhabi University International Student Scholarships

Abu Dhabi University is a top private institution in the UAE.

You can receive fully funded scholarships covering 100% tuition fees and living allowances.

The Merit-Based Excellence Scholarships target high-achieving students in all disciplines.

Funding is available for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs starting in 2026.

Key Scholarship Data and Metrics

Application Timeline and Requirements

You need a minimum GPA of 3.7 for undergraduate programs.

For graduate studies, you need a GPA of 3.5.

The application window runs January to April for September intake.

Scholarship Benefits Beyond Tuition

You receive comprehensive support including health insurance, airport pickup, and orientation.

Monthly stipends range from $800-$1,200 for living expenses.

Research opportunities connect you with leading faculty and international projects.

You gain access to advanced facilities and industry partnerships.

The Abu Dhabi education sector recruits international talent through these scholarships.

You join a community where 65% of students represent over 100 nationalities.

To renew your scholarship, maintain academic excellence and join university activities.

This opens doors to higher career opportunities and increased earning potential in the UAE.

7) Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus Scholarships

Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus offers fully funded scholarships for international students in 2026.

You can access a world-class British education in Dubai’s business district.

Merit-based scholarships are available for students enrolled in programs in the UAE for the 2025-2026 academic year. cover 100% tuition and living allowances.

You study at a campus that blends Scottish academic excellence with Middle Eastern innovation.

Key Scholarship Details

Application Timeline 2026

You get guaranteed job placement assistance with a 95% employment rate within six months of graduation.

The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, research labs, and industry partnerships.

Your application needs academic transcripts, a personal statement, and two recommendation letters.

Show leadership potential and commitment to your field.

The university’s innovative research programs attract top faculty and students.

You join a diverse community representing over 100 nationalities.

Priority consideration goes to applicants from underrepresented regions and first-generation students.

You can combine scholarships with part-time work opportunities on campus.

8) Zayed University International Student Scholarship Program

Zayed University is the UAE’s leading federal institution.

You can earn a fully funded scholarship covering 100% of tuition fees and comprehensive living allowances.

This program targets exceptional international students seeking undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Funding is available for studies in business, education, and communication.

Key Program Details

Program Benefits You’ll Receive

You get financial support worth up to AED 60,000 annually.

Monthly living allowances cover accommodation and daily expenses.

Academic benefits include joining a diverse educational environment focused on skill development and cultural exchange.

Career preparation comes from internships and industry connections.

You graduate with practical experience valued by employers across the Middle East.

Application Process Checklist

• Complete online application by March 15, 2026
• Submit academic transcripts with official translations
• Provide English proficiency scores for applicants must apply for the scholarship. (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Write personal statement (500 words maximum)
• Secure two recommendation letters from academic referees
• Attend virtual interview if shortlisted

Start your scholarship journey with early preparation.

Gather your documents at least three months before the deadline to ensure success.

9) Masdar Institute Graduate Scholarships

Masdar Institute offers fully funded graduate scholarships for international students in renewable energy and sustainability.

You receive comprehensive financial support covering tuition, living expenses, and research opportunities in Abu Dhabi.

You can access world-class facilities and participate in cutting-edge research programs in clean energy technologies.

The scholarship attracts top talent from around the globe to advance sustainable solutions.

Program Details and Coverage

Application Requirements and Timeline

You join a prestigious program that combines academic excellence with practical research applications.

Applications for 2026 intake are now open, with multiple admission cycles throughout the year.

This flexibility allows you to plan your academic journey according to your schedule.

10) Dubai Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Scholarships

Dubai stands as the Middle East’s premier engineering hub, offering you exceptional fully funded scholarship opportunities in electrical and mechanical engineering for 2026.

You access cutting-edge facilities while studying in one of the world’s most innovative cities.

The UAE’s Vision 2071 has allocated $13.6 billion toward advanced engineering education.

This massive investment creates unprecedented opportunities for international students.

Scholarship Coverage & Benefits

Application Timeline 2026

You have multiple application windows throughout 2026.

Dubai’s engineering sector employs over 180,000 professionals.

Average salaries reach $85,000 annually.

Your scholarship opens doors to these lucrative career paths.

The renewable energy sector in UAE specifically seeks electrical and mechanical engineers to support the country’s ambitious sustainability goals.

11) Emirates Foundation Scholarships for International Students

Emirates Foundation stands as the UAE’s premier philanthropic organization, offering fully funded scholarships that turn your academic dreams into reality.

You benefit from funding that covers 100% of tuition fees, living expenses, and additional benefits.

The Foundation partners with leading UAE universities to provide comprehensive support for exceptional students.

You can access funding for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across multiple disciplines.

Key Scholarship Details

Application Requirements

The Emirates Foundation creates targeted opportunities for you in science and technology fields.

You benefit from mentorship programs, internship placements, and career development support.

The Foundation ensures you receive world-class education and build valuable networks in the UAE’s thriving economy.

12) Sharjah University Fully Funded Scholarships

Sharjah University stands as one of the UAE’s most prestigious institutions, offering fully funded scholarships to international students.

You gain access to world-class education without the financial burden of overseas study.

The University of Sharjah ranks among the top universities in the region.

Your journey starts with comprehensive funding that covers tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.

Scholarship Coverage & Benefits

You receive total funding up to $50,500 annually.

This ensures you focus on academic achievement, not financial concerns.

Application Requirements & Timeline

Your application depends on exceptional academic performance and leadership potential.

The university evaluates candidates based on merit.

Application opens: March 2025 for Fall 2026 intake.

Priority deadline: June 15, 2025.

You must submit all documents through the university’s online portal.

Decisions are announced by August 2025.

13) Dubai Women’s College Scholarships for International Students

Dubai Women’s College empowers women through higher education in the United Arab Emirates.

You discover exceptional scholarship opportunities that can transform your academic journey and career prospects.

The college offers fully funded scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for outstanding international students.

These awards target women pursuing undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, health sciences, and technology.

Scholarship Overview and Benefits

You access world-class facilities and benefit from small class sizes.

The college maintains strong industry connections.

You gain excellent internship and job placement opportunities.

Eligibility Requirements

Your application must demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential, particularly in programs in the UAE.

The committee values candidates who show commitment to women’s empowerment and community development.

The UAE’s education sector increasingly offers scholarships to talented international students, reflecting the country’s commitment to educational excellence.

14) Al Ain University International Scholarships

Al Ain University stands as a leading private institution in the UAE.

The university offers merit-based scholarships covering up to 100% of tuition fees for exceptional international students.

You can enjoy world-class education in Al Ain, a city rich in culture and academic excellence.

Over 80 countries send students to Al Ain University.

You’ll join a vibrant, diverse community where academic achievement meets cultural exchange.

Key Scholarship Details

Application Requirements & Timeline

Submit your application between January 15 – May 30, 2026 for fall semester enrollment.

The process is highly competitive, with a 15% acceptance rate for full funding.

Your scholarship benefits:

• Full tuition coverage for selected programs
• Monthly stipend of AED 1,500 for living expenses
• Health insurance
• Airport pickup and orientation support

You can pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in engineering, business, pharmacy, and law.

The university holds a strong academic reputation and international accreditation.

Application opens: January 15, 2026
Priority deadline: March 31, 2026
Final deadline: May 30, 2026

15) Higher Colleges of Technology Scholarships

Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) is the UAE’s largest applied higher education institution.

The university offers fully funded scholarships that help international students achieve their academic dreams.

HCT features a prestigious network of 17 campuses across the Emirates.

Cutting-edge facilities and industry-aligned programs prepare you for the fast-changing job market.

HCT serves over 23,000 students every year.

International scholarship recipients access world-class education in technology and applied sciences.

Key Scholarship Data & Metrics

Program Options & Financial Benefits

Choose from over 80 specialized programs in engineering, business, health sciences, and IT.

The scholarship covers your tuition fees for the Mohamed Bin Zayed University. entire educational journey with robust financial support.

Your scholarship includes comprehensive health insurance, airport pickup, and academic support.

Receive career counseling and internship opportunities with leading UAE companies.

HCT partners with over 500 companies, giving you practical experience during your studies.

Enjoy a 95% graduate employment rate within six months of graduation.

Submit academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, and a personal statement when you apply.

Show leadership potential and a commitment to technology advancement in your application.

16) Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai Scholarships

Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai is a premier American university campus in the UAE.

The university offers fully funded scholarships for international students pursuing technology and engineering degrees in 2026.

The Dubai campus provides merit-based scholarships covering full tuition, housing, and living expenses.

Key Scholarship Data 2026

Eligibility Requirements

Show exceptional academic performance and leadership potential.

The scholarship targets students in STEM fields with innovative project experience.

Submit transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement to qualify for merit-based scholarships for Emirati students.

Priority consideration goes to students from underrepresented regions who seek technology education and apply for Abu Dhabi University scholarships for 2025-2026.

The Dubai campus connects you with major tech companies in the Gulf region.

Access internships and career opportunities worth over $50,000 annually after graduation.

17) Ajman University International Student Scholarships

Ajman University is one of the UAE’s top private institutions.

The university offers competitive scholarships covering up to 75% of tuition fees for exceptional international students.

Located in Ajman, you benefit from affordable living costs and high academic standards.

The International Excellence Scholarship Program targets high-achieving students from over 64 countries.

You can receive merit-based funding for undergraduate and graduate programs in engineering, business, and health sciences.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits

Application Requirements and Timeline

Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 to keep your scholarship.

The application process opens annually in March for the fall semester.

Required documents:

• Official transcripts with minimum 85% grades
• IELTS 6.0 or equivalent English proficiency
• Two academic reference letters
• Personal statement outlining your career goals

Ajman University expands its international partnerships from 2023-2026, planning to attract 15-20 companies for enhanced funding opportunities.

You benefit from state support measures and grants that supplement scholarships.

Living costs in Ajman average $8,000-10,000 annually.

You receive career placement support and join a community with 85% job placement rates for international graduates.

18) University of Sharjah Research Excellence Scholarships

The University of Sharjah Research Excellence Scholarships offer comprehensive funding for international graduate students pursuing advanced research degrees.

This prestigious program covers tuition, living expenses, and research costs for outstanding candidates in STEM fields and social sciences.

Located in Sharjah, the cultural capital of the Arab world, you join a vibrant academic community.

95% of international students in this program come from East Asia, fostering diverse research collaborations.

The program targets high-achieving international students with strong research backgrounds.

You must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 for master’s programs and 3.7 for doctoral studies.

Your research scholarship includes the Chancellor’s scholarship opportunities. laboratory access, conference funding, and mentorship from internationally recognized faculty.

You receive comprehensive support to excel in your academic and research journey.

19) Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation Scholarships

DIDI stands as Dubai’s premier design education institution. The institute offers fully funded scholarships to international students for 2026.

You join a cutting-edge academic environment that bridges creativity and innovation. Dubai Design District gives you access to the region’s most dynamic creative hub.

DIDI partners with MIT and Parsons School of Design to deliver world-class education.

Key Scholarship Details

Program Benefits

You receive comprehensive financial support covering all educational expenses. The scholarship includes housing assistance and healthcare coverage.

International mentorship programs connect you with industry leaders across fashion, product design, and multimedia arts.

You participate in Dubai’s thriving creative economy through internships and projects.

The UAE’s focus on educational innovation opens exceptional career opportunities after graduation.

Application Process

Submit your application through DIDI’s online portal by March 2026. Include academic transcripts, a creative portfolio, and your personal statement.

Portfolio requirements emphasize originality and technical skill across multiple design disciplines.

You demonstrate proficiency in digital design tools and conceptual thinking.

20) International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Scholarships

IRENA offers specialized funding for international students pursuing renewable energy education in the UAE.

You can access fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and research costs for 2026.

The International Renewable Energy Agency supports renewable energy research and development across the region. 

UAE universities partner with IRENA to provide advanced training in solar, wind, and sustainable energy technologies.

Your application must show commitment to renewable energy careers in developing nations.

Research proposals should align with IRENA’s sustainable energy goals and regional opportunities for Emirati students to study abroad. energy transition projects.

Priority goes to candidates from energy-deficit countries seeking advanced training in renewable technologies.

You gain access to cutting-edge research facilities and industry partnerships throughout the Gulf region.

21) Canadian University Dubai Scholarships

Canadian University Dubai stands as a premier educational institution. The university offers fully funded scholarships for international students pursuing undergraduate and graduate programs in 2026.

You study at a Dubai-based campus that provides Canadian-accredited education in the heart of the Middle East’s business hub.

The university attracts students from over 100 countries.

You access world-class education while experiencing Dubai’s dynamic multicultural environment.

Key scholarship benefits include complete tuition coverage, housing allowances, and healthcare insurance.

You receive mentorship opportunities and internship placements with leading Dubai corporations.

Eligibility requirements demand a minimum 3.5 GPA for undergraduate programs and 3.7 GPA for graduate studies.

You must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL scores.

Application materials require academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a compelling personal statement.

Submit applications through the university’s online portal by the specified deadlines.

The scholarship program emphasizes academic excellence and leadership potential.

 Competition remains high among international applicants seeking quality education in the UAE.

22) British University in Dubai Fully Funded Scholarships

British University in Dubai stands as a premier institution offering fully funded scholarships for international students in 2026.

You access world-class British education in Dubai’s dynamic business hub.

The university provides comprehensive financial support covering tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.

You benefit from small class sizes with an average student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1.

Key Scholarship Details 2026

Application Requirements & Timeline

You must demonstrate academic excellence with minimum GPA requirements varying by program.

The university accepts applications from October 2025 through March 2026 for fall intake.

Your scholarship application requires documentation for the PhD scholarship. academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a compelling personal statement. 

Scholarships are offered to talented students across diverse academic disciplines.

You join over 4,000 international students from more than 100 countries. This creates invaluable networking opportunities for your future career.

23) Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University Scholarships

Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University stands as the Middle East’s first fully accredited smart university.

The university offers cutting-edge online education with fully funded scholarships for international students in 2026.

You access world-class digital learning platforms while studying from anywhere globally.

Located in Dubai, UAE, this institution transforms your higher education experience through advanced technology and personalized learning pathways.

The university provides you with 24/7 access to virtual classrooms and AI-powered learning tools.

Key Scholarship Details

Program Options & Benefits

You receive comprehensive financial support including tuition coverage, monthly stipends, and access to premium learning resources.

The scholarship targets high-achieving international students seeking flexible, technology-enhanced education.

Application requirements include academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, and a personal statement showing your commitment to digital learning innovation.

Submit applications through the university’s smart portal system.

The program offers networking opportunities with industry leaders.

You access Dubai’s thriving business ecosystem and graduate with internationally recognized credentials and digital skills.

24) American University in Dubai Financial Aid

American University in Dubai (AUD) stands as a premier institution offering comprehensive financial support to international students seeking world-class education in the UAE.

You find diverse funding opportunities that make quality education accessible through merit-based scholarships, need-based aid, and specialized programs.

AUD provides up to 100% tuition coverage for exceptional international students through flagship scholarship programs.

The university’s financial aid office processes over $2.3 million annually in student support.

AUD ranks as one of the most generous private institutions in the region.

AUD Scholarship Programs Overview

Financial Aid Distribution

Prepare your scholarship application with academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and a compelling personal statement.

The university’s international student support programs show a strong commitment to global talent.

AUD’s generous aid packages feature tuition discounts, housing allowances, and meal plan credits.

You can combine awards to maximize your funding and reduce costs.

25) American University of Ras Al Khaimah Scholarships

American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) offers merit-based scholarships covering up to 100% of tuition fees for outstanding international students.

You can study at this accredited American institution in Ras Al Khaimah.

AURAK provides comprehensive funding support through several scholarship programs for high-achievers worldwide.

The university’s scholarship programs for international students attract talented individuals from diverse backgrounds.

AURAK Scholarship Overview

Application Requirements

You can apply for renewable scholarships that cover your full degree.

AURAK evaluates candidates based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and community involvement.

AURAK partners with healthcare institutions in Ras Al-Khaimah to provide excellent internships for medical and health science students.

Eligibility Criteria for Fully Funded Scholarships in the UAE 2025 – 2026

You must meet academic standards, prove English proficiency, and follow precise application procedures to secure fully funded scholarships in the UAE.

The UAE government offers scholarships for international students who meet criteria and gain admission to approved institutions.

Academic Requirements

Minimum GPA standards differ by scholarship and institution.

Most UAE fully funded scholarships require a minimum 3.0 GPA for undergraduates and 3.5 GPA for graduate students.

Submit official transcripts from all prior institutions.

Authenticate your documents through your country’s education ministry or an authorized service.

Research experience is important for graduate scholarships.

Show your research through publications, presentations, or supervised projects.

Age limits usually range from 18-35 years.

Some programs set special age requirements based on career stage or program length.

Language Proficiency Standards

English proficiency is essential for UAE scholarships.

Most institutions accept IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic scores.

You need at least IELTS 6.0 (no band below 5.5) for undergraduates.

Graduate students usually need IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0).

Arabic proficiency can strengthen your application.

Basic Arabic skills help with cultural integration, but are not mandatory.

Test scores remain valid for two years.

Check your scores’ validity before applying.

Application Process Overview

Application deadlines differ by program.

The UAE education sector keeps expanding to welcome more international students.

Submit your application through official scholarship portals or university websites.

Each program lists required documents and formats.

Required documents often include transcripts, language scores, personal statements, and recommendation letters.

Some programs ask for research proposals or portfolios.

Interviews may include video calls, written tests, or in-person meetings.

Prepare by researching the institution and program.

Start gathering documents at least six months before deadlines.

This gives you time for authentication and submission.

Benefits and Opportunities Provided by UAE Scholarships

UAE scholarships offer comprehensive financial packages that cover tuition, living costs, and research funding.

Programs provide academic support, mentorship, and access to influential networks for your career.

Financial Coverage Details

UAE scholarships eliminate financial barriers for international students.

Most fully funded programs cover 100% of tuition, ranging from $15,000 to $60,000 per year.

Monthly stipends range from AED 2,000 to AED 5,000 ($545 to $1,360 USD), covering accommodation, meals, transport, and personal expenses.

Extra benefits include health insurance, visa fees, and annual flight tickets.

Some programs offer laptop allowances, book stipends, and conference funding.

Graduate students can access additional grants from AED 10,000 to AED 50,000 for research, labs, and conferences.

Academic and Research Support

UAE universities provide world-class research facilities and resources.

Students use modern labs, digital libraries, and advanced technology.

Faculty mentorship programs pair you with experienced professors for research and career advice.

These partnerships often lead to publications and collaborative projects.

Research collaborations connect you with partners and industry leaders worldwide.

UAE’s strategic location supports partnerships with European, Asian, and African institutions.

The UAE education sector focuses on innovation and technology transfer.

You can join real-world projects that address regional and global challenges.

Networking and Career Development

UAE scholarships open doors to professional networks in government, business, and academia.

Alumni include leaders in energy, finance, and technology.

Career services offer job placement support.

85% of scholarship recipients secure jobs within six months of graduation.

Many programs guarantee internships with top companies and government agencies.

Professional development workshops cover leadership, entrepreneurship, and cultural skills.

These sessions prepare you for success in the Middle East.

The UAE’s Vision 2021 creates direct career pathways in renewable energy, AI, and sustainable development.

BFFS Scholar Quest Frequently Asked Questions: Fully Funded Scholarships in United Arab Emirates for International Students – UAE Scholarships 2025-2026

International students looking for fully funded scholarships in the UAE for 2026 must meet eligibility, follow application steps, and maintain their awards.

Major institutions like UAEU and Khalifa University offer a range of opportunities with different deadlines and requirements.

What are the eligibility criteria for fully funded scholarships in the UAE for international students in 2026, including merit scholarships and PhD scholarships?

• Most fully funded scholarships in the UAE require exceptional academic performance.
• You typically need a minimum GPA of 3.5 or equivalent.
• You must hold a valid passport from a country outside the UAE.
• Universities ask for proof of English proficiency through IELTS (minimum 6.5) or TOEFL (minimum 79).
• For undergraduate programs, you need a high school diploma with grades in the top 10% of your class.
• Graduate scholarships require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with strong academic standing.
• Age restrictions vary by program.
• Most undergraduate scholarships require applicants to be under 25 years old.
• Graduate programs usually accept students up to the deadlines for scholarships in UAE: 35 years for master’s and 40 years for PhD programs.
• Research-based scholarships require a detailed research proposal that matches university priorities.
• You must show leadership experience through extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or professional achievements.
• Some scholarships require you to return to your home country after graduation for at least two years.
• Other programs may offer optional employment opportunities within the UAE after you finish your studies.

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How can international students apply for fully funded scholarships in universities across the UAE for the academic year 2026?

The application process starts with online submission through each university’s portal.

Application periods run from September 2025 to March 2026.

You must create separate accounts for each university and scholarship program.

Required documents include certified academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation.

Personal statements and research proposals are needed for graduate programs.

Translate all documents into English or Arabic using certified translators.

Most applications need to include details about scholarships for students enrolled in 2025-2026. three to five recommendation letters.

Academic supervisors, employers, or community leaders should submit these letters directly.

You will complete online interviews or assessment tests as part of the selection process.

Technical programs may require skill-based evaluations or portfolio submissions.

Application fees range from AED 100 to AED 500 per program.

Many fully funded scholarships waive these fees for eligible international students.

You can pay using credit cards or bank transfers in UAE dirhams.

What are the requirements for maintaining a fully funded scholarship as an international student in the UAE?

You need to keep a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 to retain your scholarship.

Some prestigious scholarships demand a GPA of 3.5 or higher.

Full-time enrollment is mandatory.

Undergraduate students must take 12-15 credit hours per semester.

Graduate students need 9-12 credit hours per semester.

Taking fewer courses without approval can end your scholarship, especially for those aiming for study abroad programs.

You must submit semester progress reports within 30 days of grade release.

These reports include academic transcripts, faculty evaluations, and personal reflections.

Follow all behavioral standards, including UAE cultural norms and university codes of conduct.

Violations can lead to immediate scholarship cancellation and visa revocation, especially for UAE nationals.

Research scholarship recipients must publish findings in peer-reviewed journals or present at international conferences.

Always acknowledge the scholarship program in your academic work.

Are there specific fully funded scholarships available for Indian students in the UAE in 2026, and how do they differ from general scholarships?

The UAE-India Education Partnership offers about 200 scholarships annually for Indian nationals.

These scholarships focus on students from specific Indian states and academic fields.

Application requirements for Indian students include state domicile certificates and income statements.

Priority goes to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds with annual family income below INR 800,000.

Indian-specific scholarships offer cultural integration programs and Hindi language support.

You can join Diwali celebrations, Indian Independence Day events, and networking sessions with the Indian business community in the UAE.

Most Indian scholarships require a two-year return service in India after graduation.

Some programs offer research collaboration or knowledge transfer as alternatives.

These scholarships provide enhanced monthly stipends of AED 3,000-4,000.

General scholarships offer AED 2,000-3,000 per month.

Extra benefits include Annual home visits are included in the Abu Dhabi University scholarships 2025-26. and family reunion allowances.

Which universities in the UAE offer fully funded scholarships for master’s degree programs to international students in 2026, including the Abu Dhabi University Scholarship and the Mohamed Bin Zayed University?

Khalifa University offers the most comprehensive fully funded master’s scholarships.

These cover scholarships in UAE. 100% tuition, monthly stipends of AED 3,500, and research allowances up to AED 10,000 per year.

Scholarships are available in engineering, science, and medicine.

United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) awards about 150 fully funded master’s scholarships each year.

Benefits include a full tuition waiver, monthly allowance of AED 3,000, and health insurance.

American University of Sharjah provides merit-based fully funded scholarships for master’s programs in business, engineering, and arts.

They support 50 international students annually with 100% tuition coverage and living allowances.

University of Dubai offers specialized fully funded scholarships for master’s programs in business administration, information technology, and sustainable development.

These scholarships include industry internship placements and career support.

Mohammed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence gives highly competitive fully funded master’s scholarships in AI, machine learning, and robotics.

All international students get full financial support, including tuition, accommodation, and research funding.

Can non-UAE nationals apply for the Khalifa University Scholarship in 2026, and what are the application procedures?

• • Non-UAE nationals are eligible for the Khalifa University fully funded scholarships.
  • International students make up about 40% of all scholarship recipients.
  • The university recruits talent from over 80 countries worldwide.
  • Application deadlines for the 2026 intake open on January 15, 2026.
  • The deadline to apply is April 30, 2026.
  • You must submit your application through the official Khalifa University portal.
  • Upload all supporting documents in PDF format.
  • Required qualifications include a bachelor’s degree.
  • You need a minimum CGPA of 3.0.
  • Prepare your transcripts, certificates, and test scores in advance.
  • Double-check all files before uploading.
  • Review the official Khalifa University website for updates.
  • Contact the admissions office if you have questions.
  • Apply early to avoid last-minute issues.

Good luck with your scholarship applications!

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