UNITED ARAB EMIRATES · AL AIN
United Arab Emirates University
public · Founded 1976 · Languages: en, ar
In short
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is the UAE's first national university, offering a wide range of accredited programs with a diverse international student body and modern facilities in Al Ain.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1976
- Students
- 13,000
- International students
- 1,500
- Acceptance rate
- 65%
- Tuition (intl)
- €9–16k/yr
- Languages
- EN, AR
- Location
- Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is the first national comprehensive university in the UAE, established in 1976 by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It aims to be a research-intensive institution, offering a wide range of accredited undergraduate and graduate programs across nine colleges. UAEU provides a modern campus environment with strong student support services and an international faculty. The university is dedicated to producing highly sought-after graduates who contribute significantly to various sectors within the region and beyond. UAEU actively engages in international-level research, collaborating with industry partners to address national, regional, and global challenges. It hosts several research centers focused on critical areas such as water resources and cancer treatments. The university's academic programs are designed in collaboration with employers, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their careers and hold influential positions across industry, commerce, and government. With a diverse student body representing over 60 nationalities, UAEU fosters a culturally rich learning environment. The university continually invests in its facilities, services, and staff to maintain its reputation as a leader in innovation and academic excellence.
Why study here
- Access to a comprehensive range of accredited, high-quality graduate and undergraduate programs.
- Benefit from a distinguished international faculty and state-of-the-art campus facilities.
- Engage in impactful research through strategic research centers addressing national and global challenges.
- Join a diverse student community with over 60 nationalities, fostering global awareness and cultural sensitivity.
- Study programs developed in partnership with employers, leading to high demand for graduates in various sectors.
Student life
UAEU offers a vibrant living-learning environment with extensive student support services. The university embraces cultural diversity, with students from over 60 nationalities contributing to a rich campus experience. Opportunities for personal and professional growth are provided through various programs and interactions. The university also has an active media center highlighting news, events, photos, and videos related to student life and academic achievements.
Fees
InternationalApproximately EUR 9,000-16,000 per year depending on programme and credit load; charged per credit hour.
HomeEmirati nationals are heavily subsidised and many study at little or no cost.
LivingAround EUR 8,000-12,000 per year in Al Ain, including accommodation, food and transport.
UAEU publishes its study fees on a dedicated page accessible via the admissions section. Students can also apply for financial aid through the Student Care Fund, which supports eligible students from low-income families facing financial difficulties. This aid is provided through eService application, subject to case review, required documentation, and available funding from charitable organizations within the UAE.
Admissions
Undergraduate AdmissionsCompetitive, based on academic qualifications and college capacity, following annual official admission policy guidelines.
Postgraduate AdmissionsCompetitive; meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. The university considers the applicant's credentials and institution of graduation.
IELTS (Academic)6.0 overall (5.0 for some foundation entry)
TOEFL iBT68-79 depending on programme
EmSAT English1400+ (UAE national standard)
Rankings
QS World 2025#229
Times Higher Education World201-250
QS Arab Region#5
UAE Arab Universities Ranking#1
University scholarships
Hamdan bin Rashid Scholarship ProgramFully funded for 10 successful students annually
Accreditation
UAEU is accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education & Research. Specific accreditations include ABET for the College of Engineering, AACSB for the College of Business and Economics, International recognition based on NCATE Standards for the College of Education, and Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET for the Bachelor's program in IT. The College of Medicine and Health Sciences is globally recognized and accredited by the General Medical Council (GMC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), and recognized by US and Canadian universities.
Programs
a selectionUnited Arab Emirates University · United Arab Emirates
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science program provides a comprehensive understanding of the theories, concepts, and practices within the field of political science. It explores key sub-disciplines including political philosophy, comparative politics, and international relations. Students will gain insights into the nature of the state, government structures, political systems, and the influence of political ideologies and thinkers. The program also delves into the specific governmental and policy landscape of the United Arab Emirates, examining its constitutional organization, power distribution, and policy-making processes. Students will develop analytical skills to understand political decision-making, policy implementation, and the relationship between politics and economics.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
United Arab Emirates University · United Arab Emirates
Bachelor of Business Administration
The Bachelor of Business Administration program at UAEU provides a comprehensive business education designed to prepare students for diverse careers in business and government. The curriculum covers core business functions such as finance, accounting, and economics, while also equipping students with strong managerial and analytical skills through practical application. The program offers four specialized tracks: Entrepreneurship, Human Resources Management, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific career interests. An internship program is a key component, providing real-world experience. This internationally accredited program aims to meet the evolving demands of the UAE's job market and prepare graduates for global competitiveness. Graduates will possess essential skills in communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and ethical decision-making. The program also serves as a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue postgraduate studies in business.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
United Arab Emirates University · United Arab Emirates
Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management and Development
The Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resource Management and Development (BBA-HRMD) is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in both public and private sectors within the field of human resources. This program aims to meet the evolving labor market needs of the UAE economy by equipping students with essential business skills across core functions like finance, accounting, and economics, alongside specialized knowledge in HR. The curriculum focuses on strategies and tools for attracting, training, engaging, retaining, and motivating employees. Students will gain a strong foundation in management theories and analytical skills, complemented by practical experience through a mandatory internship. The program is internationally accredited, ensuring worldwide recognition of graduates' degrees, and prepares students for both direct entry into the workforce and for further graduate studies.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
United Arab Emirates University · United Arab Emirates
Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing
The Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of marketing principles and theories. It equips them with essential knowledge and skills to succeed in marketing roles. The curriculum emphasizes analytical and creative thinking, preparing graduates for a business environment that values data and innovation. It is designed to align with current industry trends like digitalization, artificial intelligence, and sustainability, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the job market in the UAE and globally. Students will gain practical experience through integrated theoretical knowledge and hands-on applications, covering key marketing functions such as consumer behavior, advertising, branding, market research, and digital marketing.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
United Arab Emirates University · United Arab Emirates
Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering
The Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering program focuses on the subsurface engineering activities crucial for hydrocarbon production, including crude oil and natural gas. This field emphasizes maximizing the economic recovery of hydrocarbons from underground reservoirs by deeply understanding the physical behavior of oil, water, and gas within porous rock under high pressure. It requires knowledge from related disciplines such as Geology, Petrophysics, Geophysics, and Petroleum Geology. Recent advancements in computer modeling, materials science, and statistical analysis have significantly enhanced the tools available to petroleum engineers. The program aims to prepare graduates for successful careers in petroleum engineering, enabling them to take on leadership roles, demonstrate professionalism, ethical responsibility, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Graduates will be equipped to develop innovative solutions for the petroleum industry and pursue advanced studies or careers in related fields.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
United Arab Emirates University · United Arab Emirates
Bachelor-Master Accelerated Option in Business Analytics
This accelerated program allows high-achieving undergraduate students to gain early admission to the Master of Business Analytics (MBAN) program. You can earn graduate credits while completing your Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree, leading to a faster path to your master's. The program aims to provide advanced knowledge and skills in Business Analytics, preparing you for leadership roles in industry, consulting, or academia. It also offers the advantage of a shorter study period, potentially completing your MBAN in just 9 months after your bachelor's degree, compared to the standard 15 months. This option is designed to better prepare graduates for professional registration and foster research activity in the field.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
9 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United Arab Emirates
full fundingAmerican University of Sharjah (AUS)
President's Scholarship at the American University of Sharjah
Open to first-time, first-year students who completed their secondary education outside the UAE and are enrolling at AUS in the fall semester. Applicants must meet high academic thresholds (such as IELTS 7.0 / TOEFL iBT 94 and top grades in their curriculum) and submit a portfolio demonstrating leadership and community contribution.
full
Funding
€60k
Max
Apr 15, 2027
Deadline
full fundingKhalifa University of Science and Technology
Khalifa University Graduate Scholarships
For high-achieving local and international students admitted to a master's or doctoral programme at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi. The scholarship covers full tuition plus a monthly stipend and benefits; admission and funding are assessed together, with intakes in autumn and spring.
full
Funding
€45k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingUnited Arab Emirates University (UAEU)
United Arab Emirates University Scholarship
Open to national and international students of all nationalities applying for Master's, PharmD, DBA, or PhD study at United Arab Emirates University in Al Ain for the 2026/2027 academic year. Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or equivalent and demonstrate English language proficiency through a valid IELTS or TOEFL score where required. Required documents include a CV, attested transcripts, a Master's degree transcript for PhD applicants, two letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. There is no application fee.
full
Funding
€30k
Max
Mar 30, 2027
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)
For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.
full
Funding
€3000k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome International Training Fellowships
For early-career researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (outside the high-income world) who want protected time and support for research training in health, often including a PhD or postdoctoral research. Wellcome's scheme names and exact criteria change over time, so applicants should check the current relevant Wellcome funding scheme.
full
Funding
€150k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
European Commission - European Research Executive Agency (REA)
Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowships
Open to researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD (or will have defended their doctoral thesis by the call deadline) and have at most 8 years of full-time-equivalent research experience after the PhD. Applicants apply jointly with a host organisation - a university, research institution, business, SME, or other body based in an EU Member State or a country associated to Horizon Europe. European Postdoctoral Fellowships are open to all nationalities for a project inside the EU or an associated country; Global Postdoctoral Fellowships are reserved for EU nationals or long-term residents who carry out a phase in a third country before returning to Europe. Researchers who have been displaced by conflict and those restarting a research career after a break are explicitly encouraged to apply.
full
Funding
€100k
Max
Sep 10, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the approximate annual fees for international students at United Arab Emirates University?
+
International students can expect to pay approximately EUR 9,000-16,000 per year, depending on the specific program and the number of credit hours taken. Fees are charged on a per-credit-hour basis.
What is the estimated annual cost of living for students in Al Ain?
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The estimated annual cost of living in Al Ain, including accommodation, food, and transport, is around EUR 8,000-12,000.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants typically need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall (with some foundation entry requiring 5.0) or a TOEFL iBT score between 68-79, depending on the program. The EmSAT English requirement is 1400+ for UAE national standards.
Does UAEU offer financial aid or scholarships for international students?
+
UAEU has a Student Care Fund to support eligible students from low-income families facing financial difficulties. While specific scholarships for international students are not detailed, the university encourages applications for financial aid.
What makes studying at United Arab Emirates University unique for international students?
+
UAEU offers a diverse student community with over 81 nationalities, state-of-the-art facilities, and programs developed in partnership with employers. The university is also a research-intensive institution with a strong focus on addressing national and global challenges.
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