The UAE introduced new rules for its national scholarship program. The changes update eligible countries, universities and priority study fields, while setting clearer rules for student selection and scholarship management.
Ministerial Resolution No. 179 of 2026, announced on August 18, brings these changes under one system. It aims to align scholarships with the UAE’s job market and future economic needs.
The revised rules identify specific groups that will receive priority consideration during the scholarship assessment process. These include children of martyrs, beneficiaries of social support programs and students living in remote areas.
Priority status will be considered alongside academic results, the field of study, the quality of the institution and the type of admission received. The ministry said the approach is intended to direct scholarships towards qualified national students while maintaining equal opportunity in the selection process.
The rules rely on recognized global rankings and apply different thresholds depending on the country. Universities placed among the world's top 50 in a specific subject can qualify regardless of their overall ranking. US and Australian institutions must meet top-100 rankings for both the relevant subject and overall university standing.
Institutions in other English-speaking countries must meet top-200 subject and overall rankings. Universities in non-English-speaking countries must meet top-300 rankings in both categories. The change places greater emphasis on the academic strength of the specific program chosen by a student.
The updated scholarship list gives preference to fields linked to strategic sectors of the UAE economy. These include energy, transport and logistics, technology and engineering, healthcare, water and environmental studies, creative industries, science and finance.
Scholarship recipients will have to maintain satisfactory academic progress and report changes that could affect their studies. They must also disclose other scholarships or financial assistance they receive. The rules cover deferment, suspension, resumption, extension and cancellation of scholarships.
The framework seeks to expand opportunities beyond university classrooms. UAE educational and science and technology offices abroad will support students with academic and administrative matters.
The ministry also plans partnerships with universities, research organizations and employers in destination countries. These links are intended to create training opportunities and potential early pathways into employment.
Students may also take additional courses at another institution under approved joint programs, cooperation agreements or exchange arrangements where the ministry considers the arrangement academically beneficial.
The new framework reflects a broader shift towards scholarships being treated as a strategic investment in national talent, with tighter oversight and stronger links between overseas education, research and future workforce needs.
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