UAE introduces new scholarship framework for Emirati students

The UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has issued Ministerial Resolution No. (179) of 2026, establishing a new regulatory framework for Emirati student scholarships. The overhaul aims to align overseas education with national priorities, strategic sectors, and future labour market needs while improving government spending efficiency.

The new regulations introduce stricter criteria for approved educational institutions based on international rankings. To qualify, institutions must generally be ranked among the top 50 globally in a student’s specific field of study.

Alternative eligibility routes exist based on geography: universities in the United States and Australia may qualify if they rank in the top 100 globally for both their field and overall ranking. For other English-speaking countries, the requirement is a top 200 global ranking in both categories. In non-English-speaking countries, institutions must rank within the top 300 globally for both field and overall standing.