Your Complete Guide to Dubai Scholarships for International Students

Dreaming of studying in the vibrant, futuristic city of Dubai? You’re not alone. Dubai has become a global hub for education, and the good news is that many of its top universities offer excellent scholarships for international students. This guide will walk you through the opportunities available for upcoming academic years.

Why Dubai is a Top Choice for International Students

Before we dive into scholarships, it’s worth noting why Dubai is such an attractive destination. The city offers a unique blend of modern innovation and rich culture. As a student, you’ll benefit from:

World-Class Education: Many international universities have campuses in Dubai, including branches of renowned institutions from the UK, USA, Australia, and Canada. This means you can get a globally recognized degree while living in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Multicultural Environment: Students and professionals from over 200 nationalities call Dubai home. This diversity creates a rich and welcoming campus life where you can build a global network of friends and future colleagues.
Career Opportunities: Dubai’s thriving economy, particularly in sectors like finance, technology, hospitality, and logistics, provides outstanding internship and job prospects for graduates.
Safety and Quality of Life: The UAE is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. With its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and endless entertainment options, it offers an unparalleled quality of life.

Finding Scholarships for the 2025-2026 Academic Years

You may have seen terms like “Dubai 2026 Scholarships.” While there isn’t one single government program with this specific name, it reflects the growing number of opportunities available for students planning to begin their studies in the coming years. Most universities in Dubai have their own scholarship programs that run annually.

The key is to research the specific scholarships offered by the universities you are interested in. These awards are typically renewed each year, making them available for students targeting the 2025 and 2026 intakes. The application window for a fall intake usually opens late in the preceding year or early in the same year.

Top Universities in Dubai with Scholarships for International Students

Nearly every major university in Dubai provides financial assistance to attract talented students from around the world. Here are some of the leading institutions and the types of scholarships they commonly offer.

American University in Dubai (AUD)

AUD is a highly respected institution known for its US-accredited programs. They are committed to making education accessible through various financial awards.

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Scholarship: This is a prestigious and highly competitive scholarship awarded to exceptional students who demonstrate both outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential.
Academic Merit Scholarships: AUD offers scholarships to new undergraduate students based on their high school academic performance. The amount awarded often corresponds to the student’s grades.
Athletic Scholarships: Talented student-athletes can receive scholarships to represent the university in various sports.

Canadian University Dubai (CUD)

CUD offers a Canadian-based curriculum and is a popular choice for international students. They provide a range of scholarships to support their student body.

Academic Excellence Scholarship: This is awarded to both new and continuing students who achieve a high GPA. The scholarship can cover a significant portion of tuition fees, from 20% up to 100% in some cases.
Sports Scholarship: Students with exceptional athletic skills can apply for financial awards.
Financial Hardship: The university also offers assistance to students who can demonstrate a genuine financial need.

Middlesex University Dubai

As a campus of the renowned Middlesex University in London, this institution offers a quality UK education in Dubai. They provide several grants and scholarships.

International Study Grant: This grant is often available to international students to help make their studies more affordable.
Academic Excellence Scholarship: Awarded to students with a strong academic track record, this scholarship provides a discount on annual tuition fees.
Early Enrolment Grant: Students who apply and pay their tuition deposit by a certain deadline may be eligible for a grant.

University of Dubai (UD)

The University of Dubai is a fast-growing institution with a strong focus on business and information technology.

Merit-Based Scholarships: UD offers partial scholarships to undergraduate students based on their high school scores. For example, students with scores of 90% or higher may receive a 25% discount on their tuition.
Corporate Discounts: The university has partnerships with various companies, offering tuition discounts to employees and their families.

Global Business School (GBS) Dubai

GBS, whose campus is featured in many videos showcasing student life in Dubai, offers practical, career-focused courses. They are known for providing accessible education.

Merit Scholarships: GBS often provides scholarships to students who demonstrate strong academic potential. These are designed to reward hard work and make their programs more accessible.
Early Bird Discounts: Similar to other universities, GBS may offer a reduction in fees for students who secure their place early.

Khalifa University (Abu Dhabi)

While technically in Abu Dhabi, Khalifa University is a top-ranked engineering and research institution in the UAE that attracts students globally. Their scholarship packages are among the most generous in the region and are highly relevant for anyone looking to study in the UAE.

KU Scholarship for Graduate Students: This is a fully funded scholarship for Master’s and PhD students. It often covers full tuition fees, provides a monthly stipend, medical insurance, and support for attending international research conferences.

How to Successfully Apply for a Scholarship

Finding the right scholarship is only the first step. A strong application is what will set you apart.

Start Your Research Early: Begin looking at university websites at least a year before your intended start date. This gives you plenty of time to understand the requirements and deadlines.
Check Eligibility Carefully: Read the criteria for each scholarship. Pay close attention to academic requirements, nationality restrictions, and the specific program of study.
Prepare Your Documents: You will typically need your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation from teachers, a copy of your passport, and proof of English proficiency (like IELTS or TOEFL scores).
Write a Compelling Personal Statement: Many applications require an essay or personal statement. Use this opportunity to highlight your achievements, explain your career goals, and articulate why you deserve the scholarship.
Meet the Deadlines: Scholarship deadlines are strict. Make a calendar of all relevant dates and submit your applications well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the general eligibility requirements for scholarships in Dubai? Most scholarships require a strong academic record (high GPA or equivalent), proof of English language proficiency, and a completed university admission application. Some may have additional requirements, such as a personal essay, an interview, or demonstrated leadership skills.

Can I work part-time while studying on a scholarship in Dubai? Yes, international students in Dubai are generally allowed to work part-time. Many universities have career services departments that help students find part-time jobs and internships, allowing you to gain valuable work experience and earn extra income.

Are scholarships available for Master’s and PhD programs? Absolutely. Many universities, like Khalifa University and the American University in Dubai, offer excellent scholarships specifically for postgraduate students. These are often research-focused and can include full tuition coverage and a monthly living stipend.