Explore the various UAE Government Scholarships available in UAE for international students, including eligibility criteria and application procedures.
Are you searching for fully funded opportunities to study in the UAE through government scholarships?. The UAE government offers generous scholarship programs to attract talented students locally and internationally. These initiatives support higher education, innovation, and research excellence. With financial coverage and world-class institutions, these scholarships can launch your academic and professional future.
UAE government scholarships aim to develop national capabilities and attract global talent. These programs promote education in priority sectors like science, engineering, health, and AI.
Offered by entities like the Ministry of Education, Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), and Khalifa University
Available for Emirati nationals and international students
Cover undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs
Full tuition coverage in most programs
Monthly stipends for living expenses
Additional support for housing, travel, and books
Opportunities to study abroad at top-ranked universities
Focus on STEM, AI, healthcare, and advanced technologies
Encourages research and innovation
Aligned with UAE Vision 2031 and national development goals
Key UAE Government Scholarship Providers
Several UAE government bodies fund and manage scholarship programs across academic levels and fields.
Ministry of Education (MOE) Scholarship Program
Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK)
ADNOC sponsors Emirati students in high-demand technical fields relevant to the oil and gas sector.
Covers undergraduate and postgraduate studies
Full financial coverage including housing and travel
Focus areas: petroleum engineering, geosciences, data science
Strong career prospects within ADNOC
Priority given to Emirati citizens
Partnerships with top engineering universities globally
Internship and job placement support
Encourages innovation in energy technologies
Includes leadership development programs
Requires GPA maintenance and field-specific tests
DEWA and ENEC Scholarships
Government energy entities like DEWA and ENEC offer tailored scholarships for future energy professionals.
Available to UAE nationals
Sponsored education in engineering and energy disciplines
Full tuition and living costs covered
Partnership with local and international universities
Hands-on training with sponsor organizations
Commitment to work after graduation
Emphasizes nuclear energy, sustainability, and smart grid technologies
Requires strong academic performance
Includes mentorship programs
Enhances national energy capabilities
Masdar Institute and Research Scholarships
Masdar’s research-oriented programs support students focused on clean energy and sustainability.
Funded by the UAE government
Master’s and PhD programs in sustainable technology
Strong research component
Focus areas: renewable energy, water, environment, AI
Open to all nationalities
Full funding including lab resources and travel
Requires research proposal and academic excellence
Linked with industry and government projects
Taught in English
Encourages publications and innovation
Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility varies by program, but common criteria apply across most UAE government scholarships.
UAE citizenship for most local scholarships
High school or undergraduate GPA above 3.0/4.0
Strong English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 80+)
Personal statement and academic goals
Letters of recommendation
Admission to an accredited university
Field of study aligned with national priorities
No criminal record or disciplinary issues
Willingness to return and serve UAE post-study
Completion of aptitude tests or interviews
Benefits of UAE Government Scholarships
These scholarships offer more than just financial support; they pave the way for academic and career success.
Full tuition coverage
Monthly living stipends
Paid travel expenses
Health insurance included
Free accommodation or housing allowance
Mentorship and academic support
Access to world-class education
Networking with scholars and professionals
Guaranteed job placement in some cases
Contribution to national development
Application Process and Deadlines
Each scholarship has a defined application timeline and process that must be followed strictly.
Applications usually open annually between January and March
Online application portals for most providers
Submission of academic transcripts and certificates
Standardized test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, GRE if required)
Resume and statement of purpose
Interview for shortlisted candidates
Final approval by scholarship committee
Visa and travel arrangements facilitated post-acceptance
Regular updates via email and student portals
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students apply for UAE government scholarships?
Yes, select programs like those at Khalifa University and UAEU welcome international applicants, especially in STEM fields.
Do UAE scholarships cover living and travel expenses?
Most government scholarships offer comprehensive packages, including stipends, accommodation, travel, and health insurance.
Are there age restrictions for applicants?
Some programs require students to be under a certain age (e.g., under 25 for undergraduate). Always check specific guidelines.
Do I need to know Arabic to apply?
No, many programs are taught in English. Proficiency in English is usually more important.
Can I study abroad on a UAE government scholarship?
Yes, many scholarships fund study at international universities, especially in the US, UK, and Australia.
How competitive are UAE government scholarships?
Very competitive. Applicants need strong academic records, test scores, and personal achievements.
What happens after I graduate?
Graduates often return to the UAE and work in government or partner institutions as part of their scholarship commitment.
Can current university students apply?
Some programs allow current students to apply if they meet academic and citizenship requirements.
What fields of study are prioritized?
STEM fields, medicine, education, law, and sustainability are usually prioritized.
Are there scholarship programs for women?
Yes, the UAE actively promotes female participation in higher education through dedicated initiatives.
Conclusion
UAE government scholarships provide a world-class academic path with full financial support. They are ideal for students who aim to contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s future.
We help you here
Free students tools, Recommendation letter Writing Service, Motivation Letter Writing Service, Intent Letter Writing Service
How can I apply