Ministry Launches 2026 Overseas Study Program for Citizen Students

The UAE's Ministry of Higher Education has opened applications for its scholarship program targeting Emirati citizens for Spring 2026, with registration closing on November 7. This program represents a key investment in developing local talent to support the country's knowledge economy goals and maintain its position as a global education hub.

Dr. Faisal Al Ali, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Higher Education Operations, explained that the scholarship program goes beyond simply funding degrees abroad. "It's a strategic national project to create tomorrow's leaders and prepare a generation of Emirati youth capable of advancing the national job market and enhancing its global competitiveness," he said. The program also serves as a platform for cultural exchange between Emirati students and their international peers.

The numbers show steady growth. This year, 184 new students joined the program, studying at over 60 top-ranked universities worldwide. Over the past five years, 1,388 graduates have completed their studies across various academic levels at more than 200 universities in over 25 countries. These institutions don't just provide advanced educational environments - they give students access to cutting-edge research and comprehensive academic communities.

The program focuses on fields directly linked to national priorities and job market needs. Priority areas include artificial intelligence and data science, advanced engineering, renewable energy, and medical and health sciences. It also covers business administration, economics, and social sciences to support building an advanced knowledge society.

But here's where it gets interesting - the ministry has secured strategic partnerships with leading national institutions to ensure graduates have direct employment opportunities. These partnerships span vital sectors including energy, aviation, heavy industries, and human resources. Major employers include Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation, Emirates Airlines, Etihad Airways, Emirates Global Aluminium, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, and the United Arab Emirates University.

The ministry highlighted several success stories that show the program's impact. Nour Al Ali, pursuing a master's in genomic medicine at the University of Melbourne, has represented the UAE at international forums and contributed to advanced research enhancing the country's position in health sciences. Zahra Salman researches global environmental sciences at Kyoto University in Japan. Meanwhile, Mansour Ali Al Kaabi specializes in actuarial science and economics, applying his expertise in the private sector to support growth in critical future industries.

These examples demonstrate the program's real value as a sustainable national investment. Graduates return with global knowledge and practical experience, leaving their mark on the country's comprehensive development journey.

The continuous development of the scholarship program fits within a broader transformation led by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The goal is to enhance the country's competitiveness and establish education as a pillar of the knowledge economy, aligning with the targets of "We the UAE 2031" vision and UAE Centennial 2071. The focus remains on preparing a generation capable of leading the future and qualified to handle global changes while harnessing technology and innovation for national benefit.

Currently, 1,572 students are studying through the program at 200 universities worldwide, representing a significant investment in human capital that positions the UAE well for its economic transformation goals.