UAE scholarship programme helps 668 students pursue higher education

The UAE is strengthening its position as a global hub for education through its International Student Scholarship Programme, overseen by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

Since the programme was launched in 2016, it has supported 668 students from seven countries across the Middle East and North Africa.

Of these, 330 students are pursuing bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees at 11 universities and higher education institutions across the UAE.

The programme provides comprehensive support, including tuition fees, monthly allowances and other benefits, helping students focus on their studies and achieve academic excellence.

So far, 338 students have graduated, with many specialising in key fields including engineering, technology, medicine and administrative sciences.

Graduates come from Bahrain, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Syria, Chad, the Union of the Comoros and Tunisia. The programme is also helping strengthen the UAE’s educational, cultural and academic ties with these countries.

Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, said the programme reflects the UAE leadership’s vision of using education to build bridges between cultures and communities.

He said the programme is not only developing skilled professionals, but also creating lasting human, cultural and academic connections that can benefit students and their home communities for years to come.

The minister also highlighted the UAE’s growing role as a global destination for talent and expertise, and the contribution of its universities in preparing graduates in vital fields.

According to ministry figures, engineering and technology account for the largest share of scholarship beneficiaries, with 579 students enrolled in these fields.

A further 89 students are studying social sciences, administrative sciences and various medical disciplines.

Guided by our belief in the transformative power of education to empower youth and create opportunities, the International Student Scholarship Programme has, since its launch in 2016, continued to provide access to quality education at the country’s higher education institutions. pic.twitter.com/i6z3O2wNo7

— وزارة التعليم العالي والبحث العلمي (@mohesruae) September 2, 2026