The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is quickly emerging as a leading hub for education, research, and innovation. Known for its modern cities, advanced infrastructure, and globally recognized universities, the UAE is attracting thousands of international students every year. To encourage global talent and support higher education, the UAE government and top universities are offering fully funded scholarships in 2025.
These scholarships provide international students with an opportunity to study in prestigious institutions such as Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates University, and Mohammed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. With funding that covers tuition, living expenses, research costs, health insurance, and even airfare, the UAE is becoming a top choice for students aspiring to study in the Middle East.
Why Choose the UAE for Higher Education?
- Home to world-class universities ranked among global leaders.
- Focus on innovation, technology, and research in multiple disciplines.
- Strategic global location connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa.
- English-taught programs widely available for international students.
- Multicultural environment with students from over 150 countries.
- Fully funded scholarships covering tuition, living costs, and travel.
Eligibility Criteria
General eligibility requirements include:
- Strong academic background in previous studies.
- English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL scores).
- Research proposal or motivation letter for graduate programs.
- International student status (some scholarships also open to UAE nationals).
- Leadership qualities or involvement in research/innovation.
Overview Table
Here is a summary of the top scholarships available for international students in the UAE:
| Scholarship Name | Coverage | Eligible Levels | Fields of Study | Deadline 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Khalifa University Scholarships | Tuition, health insurance, monthly stipend | Master’s & PhD | Engineering, Medicine, Sciences | March 2025 |
| UAE University Graduate Scholarships | Tuition, accommodation, stipend, travel grant | Master’s & PhD | All major disciplines | April 2025 |
| MBZUAI Scholarships | Full tuition, housing, monthly stipend, health | Master’s & PhD | Artificial Intelligence | May 2025 |
| American University of Sharjah Scholarships | Tuition waiver, partial/fully funded aid | UG & PG | Business, Engineering, Arts | Varies |
| Zayed University Scholarships | Tuition waiver, stipend for living expenses | UG & PG | Multiple fields | June 2025 |
| Al Qasimi Foundation Scholarships | Tuition, housing, research grant, airfare | Master’s & PhD | Education, Development Studies | September 2025 |
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in the UAE
1. Khalifa University Scholarships
Khalifa University, one of the UAE’s top research institutions, provides fully funded scholarships for graduate students.
- Coverage: Full tuition, medical insurance, monthly stipend, and support for research projects.
- Levels: Master’s and PhD.
- Fields: Engineering, medicine, and applied sciences.
- Deadline: March 2025.
2. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Graduate Scholarships
UAEU is the oldest and most prestigious university in the country. It offers generous financial aid for international students.
- Coverage: Tuition fees, accommodation, monthly stipend, and travel allowances.
- Levels: Master’s and PhD.
- Deadline: April 2025.
3. Mohammed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) Scholarships
The world’s first AI-focused university offers scholarships for tech innovators.
- Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, and health insurance.
- Levels: Master’s and PhD.
- Fields: Artificial Intelligence, robotics, data science.
- Deadline: May 2025.
4. American University of Sharjah (AUS) Scholarships
AUS offers competitive scholarships and financial aid programs.
- Coverage: Partial to full tuition waivers and need-based aid.
- Levels: Undergraduate and postgraduate.
- Fields: Business, engineering, social sciences, arts.
- Deadline: Varies.
5. Zayed University Scholarships
Zayed University provides scholarships to academically strong students.
- Coverage: Tuition fee waiver, living allowance, and sometimes housing.
- Levels: UG and PG programs.
- Deadline: June 2025.
6. Al Qasimi Foundation Scholarships
This foundation supports international students pursuing higher education in the UAE.
- Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, airfare, and research funding.
- Levels: Master’s and PhD.
- Fields: Education, policy, and development.
- Deadline: September 2025.
Benefits of UAE Fully Funded Scholarships
- 100% tuition fee coverage for top universities.
- Monthly stipends ranging from AED 3,000 to AED 10,000 depending on the scholarship.
- Free accommodation or housing allowance.
- Health insurance and research support.
- Travel grants or airfare reimbursement for international students.
- Access to high-tech labs, innovation centers, and global networks.
Application Process
- Select University & Program – Choose the course and scholarship suitable for your career path.
- Prepare Documents – Academic transcripts, recommendation letters, English test results, passport, and personal statement.
- Apply Online – Submit applications through official university websites.
- Attend Interviews (if required) – Some scholarships include interviews or additional assessments.
- Wait for Results – Offers are usually sent via email and published on portals.
conclusion
The UAE is positioning itself as a global education hub, and with its fully funded scholarships in 2025, it is providing life-changing opportunities for international students. Whether your field of interest is artificial intelligence, engineering, business, or social sciences, UAE universities offer excellent academic resources, cutting-edge research facilities, and financial support. Students who secure these scholarships not only receive a world-class education but also get to experience the UAE’s cultural diversity, innovation-driven environment, and career-building opportunities.
FAQs
Q1: Do UAE scholarships cover living expenses?
Yes, most fully funded scholarships provide monthly stipends, accommodation, and health insurance.
Q2: Can international students apply for UAE scholarships?
Yes, UAE scholarships are open to students worldwide, with opportunities across multiple disciplines.
Q3: Which is the best scholarship in the UAE for 2025?
The Khalifa University and MBZUAI Scholarships are among the most prestigious fully funded options for international students.