Discover the best fully-funded and partial scholarships in the UAE for 2026. Guide for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students to study in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
The United Arab Emirates has rapidly become a global education hub, home to prestigious international university campuses and world-class local institutions. For students worldwide, studying in the UAE offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cutting-edge research opportunities, and exposure to a dynamic, multicultural environment. However, the cost of education can be a significant barrier. Fortunately, a wide array of scholarships for 2026 aims to make this world-class education accessible.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the top scholarships available in the UAE for the 2026 academic year, covering opportunities for high school graduates, undergraduates, postgraduates, and doctoral researchers.
Why Pursue a Scholarship in the UAE?
Beyond financial support, UAE scholarships offer unparalleled advantages:
- Access to Premium Institutions: Study at branches of NYU, Sorbonne, MIT Sloan, or top-ranked local universities like UAE University and Khalifa University.
- Focus on Future Industries: Many scholarships are tied to the UAE’s strategic sectors like Artificial Intelligence, Renewable Energy, Space, and Healthcare.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience life in one of the world’s safest and most cosmopolitan regions.
- Career Launchpad: Scholarships often include networking opportunities, internships, and pathways to employment in the thriving Gulf job market.
Category 1: Government-Funded & National Scholarships
These are some of the most prestigious and comprehensive awards, often funded by the UAE federal government or individual emirates.
1. The UAE Government Scholarship Program (Under the Ministry of Education)
Overview: This is a flagship program for outstanding Emirati and international students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies at designated public and private universities within the UAE.
Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Typically includes full tuition, a monthly stipend, health insurance, and sometimes accommodation and travel allowance.
Eligibility: Exceptional academic record (often a minimum 90% or 3.7 GPA), language proficiency (English/Arabic), and meeting specific program requirements.
How to Apply (2026): Applications are submitted through the official Ministry of Education website closer to the intake cycles. Prospective students must first secure admission to an approved university program.
2. Khalifa University Scholarships (Abu Dhabi)
Overview: Khalifa University, a top research-intensive institution, offers a suite of scholarships for both domestic and international students, heavily supported by the Abu Dhabi government.
Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Ranges from partial tuition waivers to full scholarships that cover 100% of tuition, provide a monthly stipend, free university housing, textbook allowance, and travel assistance.
Eligibility: Academic excellence is paramount. Graduate scholarships strongly favor research in strategic areas like Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, and Information Security.
Notable Program: The KU PhD Scholarship is highly competitive and considered one of the most generous in the region.
How to Apply (2026): Apply directly through the Khalifa University admissions portal. The scholarship application is often integrated into the program application.
3. Mohammed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) Scholarships – Abu Dhabi
Overview: The world’s first graduate-level, research-based AI university offers a fully funded scholarship to all accepted students.
Levels: Master’s, PhD (in Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing)
Coverage: 100% tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance, accommodation, and visa sponsorship.
Eligibility: A strong background in STEM fields (Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, etc.), outstanding academic records, and a passion for AI research.
Why it’s Top for 2026: As AI dominates global trends, an MBZUAI degree with full funding is a golden ticket to a top career.
How to Apply (2026): Applications open yearly. Submit directly on the MBZUAI website, including academic transcripts, statements of purpose, and recommendation letters.
4. Dubai Government Scholarships (Various Entities)
- Dubai Police Scholarship: For students pursuing security, legal, and technological studies.
- Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) Scholarship: For Emirati students in engineering, IT, and business related to utility services.
- Dubai Municipality Scholarship: For fields like environmental engineering, urban planning, and architecture.
Coverage: Usually full tuition plus benefits, often with a commitment to work for the sponsoring entity after graduation.
How to Apply (2026): Monitor the official websites of these government entities for annual scholarship announcements.
Category 2: University-Specific Scholarships (for International Students)
Most universities in the UAE offer their own merit and need-based aid.
5. New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) Financial Aid
Overview: NYUAD operates on a need-blind admission policy for all students. They meet 100% of a student’s demonstrated financial need without loans.
Levels: Undergraduate
Coverage: Can be a full ride covering tuition, room, board, travel, and personal expenses, depending on calculated need.
Eligibility: Admission to NYUAD is extremely competitive. Financial aid is assessed after acceptance based on family financial documentation.
How to Apply (2026): Apply for admission via the Common App and complete the CSS Profile for financial aid assessment.
6. University of Sharjah Scholarships
Overview: One of the largest universities offers numerous scholarships for international students based on academic merit.
Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Offers from 25% to 100% tuition fee waivers.
Eligibility: High GPA from previous studies. Some scholarships require a certain IELTS/TOEFL score.
How to Apply (2026): Often automatic consideration upon application, but check specific college requirements on their website.
7. Canadian University Dubai (CUD) Academic Scholarships
Overview: Merit-based awards for high-achieving incoming students.
Levels: Undergraduate
Coverage: Ranges from 15% to 50% of annual tuition fees, renewable annually based on maintained GPA.
Eligibility: Based on final high school average (e.g., 95%+ for the 50% scholarship).
How to Apply (2026): Submit admission application; eligible candidates are automatically considered and notified.
8. American University of Sharjah (AUS) Scholarships
Overview: AUS offers a range of scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students.
Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s
Coverage: Competitive scholarships like the Chancellor’s Scholarship can cover significant portions of tuition.
Eligibility: Outstanding academic achievement, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement.
How to Apply (2026): Separate scholarship application may be required alongside the admission application. Deadlines are strict.
Category 3: Private & Corporate Foundation Scholarships
9. Al Qasimi Foundation’s Doctoral Research Grants
Overview: Supports PhD candidates from any country whose research has the potential to contribute to the development of the Ras Al Khaimah emirate and the wider UAE.
Levels: PhD
Coverage: Provides a generous monthly stipend, full tuition coverage, research funding, and housing allowance.
Eligibility: Must be accepted into a PhD program at an accredited university. Research focus must align with the Foundation’s pillars (education, public health, etc.).
How to Apply (2026): Annual application cycle via the Al Qasimi Foundation website.
10. Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation STEM Scholarships
Overview: While primarily for study at select partner universities abroad, this prestigious Emirati foundation also supports STEM education within the Arab world, including at top UAE institutions.
Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s
Coverage: Comprehensive support including tuition, living expenses, and mentorship.
Eligibility: Arab nationals (including UAE nationals) with exceptional academic records and a commitment to community impact through STEM.
How to Apply (2026): Create a profile on the Foundation’s online platform and apply during open cycles.
How to Secure a UAE Scholarship for 2026: A 5-Step Action Plan
- Start Early (Now!): Scholarship deadlines for Fall 2026 will start as early as Fall 2025. Research and prepare now.
- Target & Match: Don’t apply randomly. Match your academic profile, field of study, and career goals with the scholarship’s mission (e.g., AI research → MBZUAI; Public Policy → Government Scholarships).
- Perfect Your Application:
- Academic Transcripts: Ensure you have outstanding grades.
- Standardized Tests: Prepare for and ace required tests like IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, GRE, or GMAT.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): This is critical. Clearly articulate your goals, why you chose the UAE, and how you will contribute.
- Letters of Recommendation: Secure strong, detailed letters from professors or employers who know you well.
- Apply for Admission First: For most university-linked scholarships, you must be admitted to a program first. Secure your admission offer.
- Prepare for Interviews: Some scholarships include interview rounds. Be ready to discuss your ambitions and knowledge of the UAE’s vision passionately.
5 FAQs About UAE Scholarships for 2026
Can international students apply for fully funded scholarships in the UAE?
Absolutely. Many of the top scholarships, such as those from Khalifa University, MBZUAI, and the UAE Government Scholarship Program, are open to international students and can be fully funded, covering tuition, housing, and providing a stipend. Competition is fierce, so a stellar application is essential.
Is there an age limit for applying to UAE scholarships?
Most undergraduate scholarships expect applicants to be recent high school graduates (typically under 25). For master’s and PhD scholarships, age limits are less common, but some specific government or corporate programs may have them. Always check the specific eligibility criteria for each scholarship.
Do I need to know Arabic to get a scholarship?
For most programs taught in English, Arabic proficiency is not a requirement for the scholarship. However, learning basic Arabic is always encouraged for daily life. Some scholarships for specific Arabic-language or Islamic studies programs will naturally require proficiency.
What is the most common reason scholarship applications are rejected?
The top reasons are incomplete applications and missing deadlines. Other major reasons include not meeting the minimum academic criteria, a generic or weak Statement of Purpose that doesn’t align with the scholarship’s goals, and submitting poorly crafted recommendation letters.
Are there scholarships available for part-time or online studies in the UAE?
The majority of full-ride scholarships are for full-time, on-campus study due to their aim of developing a residential academic community. However, some universities may offer partial tuition discounts or specific awards for their online or part-time programs. You will need to inquire directly with the university’s financial aid office.
Final Thoughts
Securing a scholarship to study in the UAE for 2026 requires dedication, preparation, and strategic targeting. The opportunities are vast and designed to attract the brightest minds to contribute to the nation’s knowledge economy. By identifying the right scholarship that aligns with your academic trajectory, crafting a compelling application, and adhering to deadlines, you can turn your ambition of studying in this dynamic region into a fully-funded reality.
Begin your journey today. Research your chosen scholarships, reach out to university admissions offices, and prepare to take your place in the UAE’s inspiring academic landscape.