Here is a simplified overview of the recent developments in UAE higher education and scholarship policies, based on the latest Federal National Council discussions:
1. More Support for Students Studying Abroad: The government plans to improve benefits, incentives, and overall support for Emirati students studying overseas.
2. Increased Capacity at Public Universities: There will be more places available for Emirati students, including clearer pathways and entry standards for students of determination.
3. A New National Scholarship Policy: Work is underway to create a unified national policy for scholarships and grants, including federal legislation to regulate how they are awarded.
4. Review of Admission Criteria: The government will review the existing admission rules (Ministerial Resolution No. 19 of 2024), which may lead to updated entry requirements.
5. New Online Portal for Scholarship Students: An integrated electronic platform will be developed to guide scholarship students and those studying abroad, making information easier to access.
6. Faster Processing for Students Abroad: Students studying overseas who need status adjustments will have their requests reviewed more quickly.
7. Expansion of Federal Universities: Plans include increasing the number of Emirati students from 49,000 to 58,000 over the next five years using a new and more flexible funding system.
8. Long-Term University Development Plans: Each federal university now has a five-year strategy (2025–2030) to expand, strengthen programmes, and offer additional flexible learning options such as short courses.
Overall, these changes aim to improve access, clarity, and support for Emirati students pursuing higher education both inside the UAE and abroad.
Hello,
Thanks for sharing this update. Any plans for UAE authorities to consider putting the UK back on the scholarship list? Thanks.
Sincerely,
Essraa
It would seem not as this decision, only taken in early 2026, was intentional. Shame 🙁