If you are an international student looking for UAE government scholarships, it’s important to understand how funding in the United Arab Emirates actually works.
Based on my research and experience reviewing official university funding policies, the UAE government primarily sponsors Emirati nationals, not international students. However, this does not mean international students have no opportunities in the UAE.
In practice, most UAE-funded scholarships for international students are offered through government-affiliated universities, rather than through a single central scholarship portal. Universities such as United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) and Khalifa University receive government funding and extend fully funded and partially funded scholarships to high-achieving international students.
This guide explains what is realistically available, who is eligible, and how to apply.
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Do UAE Government Scholarships Exist for International Students?
Strictly speaking, direct UAE government scholarships are rare for non-Emirati students. Most national scholarship schemes are designed to support UAE citizens studying abroad or domestically.
However, during my scholarship research, I found that international students can still benefit indirectly through:
- Government-funded public universities
- Government-supported research institutions
- Leadership and excellence-based foundation programs
These options are competitive but legitimate, and many international students are currently studying in the UAE through them.
UAE Government-Affiliated Scholarships for International Students
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Scholarships
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is a public university funded by the UAE government and is one of the strongest scholarship providers for international postgraduate students.
What UAEU Scholarships Cover:
For eligible international Master’s and PhD students, UAEU scholarships may include:
- 100% tuition fee waiver
- Monthly living stipend
- Health insurance
- Research and publication incentives
- Research assistant bonus up to AED 3,000 per month
From what I have seen, these scholarships are mainly awarded to students with excellent academic backgrounds and strong research potential.
Eligible Study Levels
- Master’s Degree
- PhD Programs
Khalifa University Scholarships (Fully Funded)
Khalifa University of Science and Technology, located in Abu Dhabi, is another government-funded institution that actively welcomes international students, particularly in STEM fields.
Scholarship Coverage
Khalifa University scholarships are among the most generous in the UAE and typically include:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend
- Medical insurance
- Travel support (airfare assistance in some cases)
These scholarships are available for:
- Undergraduate programs
- Master’s degrees
- PhD programs
Fields of Study
Khalifa University mainly supports:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Applied Sciences
- Technology and Innovation
Based on official admissions data, international students with strong GPAs and technical backgrounds have a realistic chance of selection.
Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Scholarships
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation supports leadership-focused and innovation-driven programs in partnership with UAE universities.
These scholarships may cover:
- Tuition fees
- Training and leadership development
- Partial living support
They usually open once per year, often around March.
I always recommend verifying foundation programs directly through partner universities, as they are not always listed on central government portals.
Eligibility Criteria (What Universities Actually Look For)
Although each university has its own criteria, most UAE government-affiliated scholarships require:
- High academic performance (strong GPA)
- Relevant prior education (Bachelor’s for Master’s, Master’s for PhD)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL, where required)
- Academic references or recommendation letters
- Research proposal (mainly for PhD applicants)
From experience, academic excellence matters more than nationality for university-based funding in the UAE.
Application Deadlines (Important)
Unlike many centralized government scholarships, UAE scholarships follow university admission cycles.
Typical deadlines:
- January to March (for Fall intake)
- Some programs reopen in April–May, depending on availability
Because these scholarships are automatically considered after admission, I strongly recommend applying as early as possible.
How to Apply for UAE Scholarships (Step-by-Step)
- Apply for admission first at the university
- UAEU official website
- Khalifa University official website
- Submit all required documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement or statement of purpose
- Recommendation letters
- Language test results
- Scholarship consideration is linked to admission
- No separate government application form
- Funding decisions are made by the university
- Track updates through official email communication
Also, Apply for Korean Government Scholarship for International Students – Study Abroad
Quick-recap table
| Scholarship Provider | Who Can Apply | Funding Type | Study Level | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UAE Government (Direct) | Emirati nationals only | Fully funded | All levels | Not available for international students |
| United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) | International students | Full / Partial funding | Master’s, PhD | Tuition waiver, stipend, health insurance |
| Khalifa University | International students | Fully funded | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | Strong focus on STEM fields |
| Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation | International students | Partial / Full funding | Selected degrees | Leadership-focused programs |
FAQs
Are there UAE government scholarships for international students?
Direct UAE government scholarships are mainly reserved for Emirati nationals. However, international students can receive government-funded scholarships indirectly through public universities such as United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) and Khalifa University.
Which UAE universities offer fully funded scholarships to international students?
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) and Khalifa University are the main government-funded universities offering fully funded or partially funded scholarships to international students, especially for Master’s and PhD programs.
What expenses are covered by UAE scholarships for international students?
Most UAE university scholarships cover tuition fees, monthly stipends, health insurance, and research support. Some programs, particularly at Khalifa University, may also include travel or relocation support.
How can international students apply for UAE scholarships?
International students must first apply for admission to a UAE university. Scholarship consideration is usually automatic after admission, and no separate government scholarship application is required.
When is the application deadline for UAE scholarships?
Deadlines vary by university but usually fall between January and March for the main intake. Early applications are strongly recommended due to limited funded seats and high competition.