Discover UAE scholarships for international students in 2025. Learn about Khalifa University, MBZUAI, UAEU, Zayed University, and more.
Introduction
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become one of the fastest-growing education hubs in the world. Known for its futuristic cities, global business centers, and innovative research, the UAE also houses some of the top-ranked universities in the Middle East. From Dubai to Abu Dhabi, students can access a multicultural environment with high-quality education.
However, studying abroad can be expensive. Tuition fees in the UAE range from AED 37,500 to AED 90,000 per year ($10,000 – $25,000 USD) depending on the program and institution. To make higher education more accessible, the UAE Government, universities, and private foundations offer a wide variety of scholarships for international students.
In this 2025 guide, we will cover:
✅ UAE government scholarships
✅ University-specific funding options
✅ Eligibility and application process
✅ Benefits of studying in the UAE
✅ Common mistakes to avoid
✅ FAQs and deadlines
🎓 Why Study in the UAE?
The UAE is more than a tourist destination—it is a global education hub. Here’s why thousands of students from India, Pakistan, Africa, Europe, and Asia choose the UAE:
- Top Universities – Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates University, and University of Sharjah rank among the best in the Middle East.
- Strategic Location – Gateway between East and West, ideal for global networking.
- Multicultural Society – Over 200 nationalities live and study in the UAE.
- Tax-Free Country – Students can work and live in a tax-free environment.
- Growing Job Market – Opportunities in oil, tech, AI, healthcare, and finance.
- Scholarship Opportunities – Multiple government and private programs support tuition and living expenses.
- Post-Study Work Options – Students may transition into jobs or research after graduation.
🏆 UAE Government Scholarships for International Students
1. Khalifa University Scholarships
- Covers full tuition, medical insurance, accommodation, and travel costs.
- Available for Master’s and PhD programs in engineering, science, and technology.
👉 Apply: Khalifa University Scholarships
2. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Scholarships
- Provides full and partial tuition waivers.
- Focused on undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
👉 Apply: UAEU Scholarships
3. Mohammed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) Scholarship
- Fully funded for AI-related Master’s and PhD programs.
- Includes 100% tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and monthly stipend.
👉 Apply: MBZUAI Scholarship
4. Zayed University Scholarships
- Partial scholarships for international undergraduates.
- Focus on academic excellence and leadership.
👉 Apply: Zayed University Scholarships
5. Abu Dhabi University Scholarships
- Offers a range of merit-based, athletic, and need-based scholarships.
- Covers up to 50% of tuition fees.
👉 Apply: Abu Dhabi University Scholarships
6. Dubai Government & Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Scholarships
- Funded initiatives for outstanding students in leadership and innovation.
- Supports both Emirati and selected international students.
🎯 University-Specific UAE Scholarships
Apart from government-funded programs, several universities provide their own awards:
- American University of Sharjah Scholarships – Merit and need-based financial support. AUS Scholarships
- American University in Dubai Scholarships – Covers up to 100% tuition for exceptional students. AUD Scholarships
- Ajman University Scholarships – Financial aid for international students. Ajman Scholarships
- University of Sharjah Scholarships – Full and partial scholarships for high-achieving students. Sharjah University
📊 UAE Scholarships Comparison Table (2025)
| Scholarship Program | Coverage | Eligible Programs | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Khalifa University | Full tuition, travel, stipend, medical | Engineering, Tech, Science | Master’s, PhD |
| UAEU Scholarships | Full & partial tuition waivers | Multiple | UG, PG |
| MBZUAI | 100% tuition, stipend, housing, health | Artificial Intelligence | Master’s, PhD |
| Zayed University | Partial scholarships | UG programs | Undergraduate |
| Abu Dhabi University | Merit & need-based, up to 50% tuition | Multiple | UG, PG |
| Dubai Government Scholarships | Tuition & living support | Leadership, Innovation | UG, PG |
📌 Step-by-Step Application Guide UAE Scholarships
- Choose a University/Program – Research which UAE institution offers your desired course.
- Check Scholarship Requirements – Each program has GPA, nationality, and English proficiency requirements.
- Prepare Documents – Passport, transcripts, recommendation letters, IELTS/TOEFL, research proposals (for PhD).
- Apply Online – Use the official university or government portal.
- Write a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Highlight leadership, goals, and academic achievements.
- Apply Before Deadline – Early applications have higher acceptance chances.
- Prepare for Interviews – Some scholarships (like Khalifa University) may include interviews.
✅ Benefits of Studying in the UAE with a Scholarship
- Reduced Financial Burden – Full or partial tuition coverage.
- High Standard of Living – Scholarships often include housing and stipends.
- Exposure to Innovation – AI, renewable energy, and smart city research hubs.
- Global Networking – Connections with students and professionals worldwide.
- Career Growth – UAE degrees are globally recognized.
⚠️ Common Mistakes Applicants Make
❌ Ignoring scholarship deadlines.
❌ Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents.
❌ Not preparing for English proficiency exams.
❌ Writing generic personal statements instead of unique, goal-oriented ones.
❌ Applying to only one program instead of multiple scholarships.
📊 Deadlines for UAE Scholarships (2025 Snapshot)
| Scholarship | Deadline 2025 |
|---|---|
| Khalifa University | Jan – April 2025 |
| UAEU Scholarships | March – May 2025 |
| MBZUAI | Ongoing (check official site) |
| Zayed University | Feb – June 2025 |
| Abu Dhabi University | March – July 2025 |
🌍 Cost of Living in the UAE for International Students (2025)
When planning to study in the UAE, students often focus on tuition fees but forget about the cost of living. Understanding expenses is crucial for budgeting and maximizing scholarship benefits.
1. Accommodation Costs UAE Scholarships
- University Dormitories: AED 2,000–4,500/month ($550–$1,200)
- Private Apartments: AED 4,000–7,500/month ($1,100–$2,000) depending on the city
- Shared Housing: Many students share apartments in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to reduce costs.
2. Food and Groceries
- Eating at campus cafeterias costs around AED 600–900/month ($160–$250).
- Cooking at home is cheaper: groceries for one student cost AED 500–800/month ($135–$220).
3. Transportation UAE Scholarships
- Metro & Buses (Dubai): AED 200–300/month ($55–$80) with student discounts.
- Taxis: More expensive but widely used.
- Cycling/E-scooters: Growing in popularity in Dubai’s student-friendly areas.
4. Health Insurance UAE Scholarships
Most universities provide mandatory health insurance for international students, costing AED 2,000–3,000/year ($550–$800).
5. Other Expenses UAE Scholarships
- Internet & phone: AED 200–350/month
- Entertainment & leisure: AED 300–600/month
- Books & supplies: AED 1,000–2,000/year
📌 Tip: Many scholarships (like Khalifa University & MBZUAI) include housing, stipends, and health insurance, which greatly reduces financial pressure.
💼 Part-Time Jobs and Work Opportunities for Students in the UAE
Scholarships reduce expenses, but part-time jobs provide extra support and experience. The UAE government allows international students with valid visas to work part-time under certain conditions.
1. Rules for Part-Time Work
- Students need NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their university.
- Work hours: Up to 15 hours/week during term, 40 hours/week during breaks.
- Jobs must be approved by the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation.
2. Popular Part-Time Jobs
- Retail & Hospitality: Restaurants, cafes, shopping malls.
- Campus Jobs: Library assistants, research assistants, student support staff.
- Tutoring: English, math, and computer tutoring are in high demand.
- Freelancing: Digital marketing, content writing, and graphic design (with proper permits).
3. Salary Expectations UAE Scholarships
- Retail/Hospitality: AED 25–40/hour ($7–$11)
- Tutoring: AED 60–100/hour ($16–$27)
- Freelancing: Varies depending on skills and projects.
📌 Tip: Many students combine scholarships with part-time jobs to fully cover living costs.
🌟 Student Life and Cultural Experience in the UAE Scholarships
The UAE offers not just education but a vibrant lifestyle. From futuristic cities to rich cultural traditions, studying here is a life-changing experience.
1. Multicultural Environment
Over 200 nationalities live in the UAE, making it one of the most diverse student communities worldwide. You’ll interact with peers from Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America.
2. Festivals and Events
- Dubai Expo Legacy Projects – Cutting-edge innovation hubs.
- National Day Celebrations – A vibrant cultural display every December 2nd.
- Dubai Shopping Festival & Abu Dhabi Cultural Events – Entertainment and networking opportunities.
3. Leisure & Entertainment
- World-class attractions: Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Louvre Abu Dhabi.
- Adventure sports: desert safaris, skydiving, scuba diving.
- Student discounts available for cinema, transport, and fitness clubs.
4. Networking & Career Fairs
- UAE universities frequently host career fairs where global companies recruit.
- International students can meet employers from Emirates Airlines, ADNOC, Etihad Airways, Huawei, Microsoft, and PwC.
5. Safety & Lifestyle UAE Scholarships
The UAE ranks among the safest countries in the world with strict laws and a welcoming environment for expatriates.
📌 Tip: Building connections through student clubs and professional networks is essential for landing internships and post-study jobs.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can Indian students apply for UAE scholarships?
👉 Yes, most scholarships are open to international students, including Indians.
Q2. Are scholarships fully funded?
👉 Some (like Khalifa University and MBZUAI) are fully funded, while others are partial.
Q3. Is IELTS mandatory?
👉 Yes, most UAE universities require IELTS/TOEFL unless your previous degree was in English.
Q4. Can I work while studying in the UAE?
👉 Yes, part-time work is allowed for international students with a valid visa.
Q5. Are undergraduate scholarships available?
👉 Yes, UAEU, Zayed University, and American University in Dubai offer undergraduate funding.
Q6. How competitive are UAE scholarships?
👉 Very competitive, but students with strong academic records and leadership qualities stand out.
Official Scholarship & University Links
- Khalifa University – Scholarships for International Students
👉 [Khalifa University Scholarships Page]ku-ae.smartcatalogiq.com - MBZUAI – Graduate Admission & Scholarship Details (100% funded for MSc & PhD, stipend, accommodation, visa)
👉 [MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship Info]MBZUAI - MBZUAI – Undergraduate uae Scholarships (merit- and needs-based, covers tuition and living costs)
👉 [MBZUAI Undergraduate Scholarship Info]MBZUAI
🔗 Reference
- Khalifa University Scholarships
- UAEU Scholarships
- MBZUAI Scholarships
- Zayed University Scholarships
- Abu Dhabi University Scholarships
- American University of Sharjah
- American University in Dubai
- Ajman University
- University of Sharjah
🔗 Need more scholarships? Visit our main resource hub at mirrorkk.com
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