The UAE has introduced major reforms to its national scholarship programme, including increased financial allowances of up to Dh30,000 and expanded support for students and their families, as part of efforts to develop future-ready Emirati talent.
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) announced that the UAE Cabinet has approved a new resolution governing scholarships and financial allowances, aimed at enhancing the country’s ability to prepare skilled professionals for priority economic sectors and emerging industries.
The updated framework is designed to support the UAE’s long-term vision of building a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy while ensuring scholarship programmes remain aligned with national development goals.
A key feature of the reforms is the increase in the study readiness and settlement allowance to Dh30,000, helping students cover initial expenses associated with overseas education and transition more smoothly into academic life.
The new system also expands healthcare and living benefits, allowing students to focus more effectively on their studies and overall wellbeing.
In a significant enhancement, health insurance coverage for scholarship recipients will now extend to spouses of married students, reflecting a broader approach to family support and student welfare during overseas studies.
The resolution introduces a comprehensive governance framework covering the entire scholarship journey, including eligibility criteria, selection of universities and study destinations, choice of academic disciplines, admissions processes, and ongoing performance evaluation.
According to MoHESR, the updated model places a stronger emphasis on aligning scholarship programmes with labour market requirements by directing students towards strategic specialisations that contribute to economic diversification and sustainable growth.
Scholarship recipients will continue to benefit from a wide range of support measures, including monthly stipends, full tuition coverage, travel tickets, health insurance, graduation incentives, and rewards for academic excellence.
The ministry said the reforms were developed following extensive consultations with scholarship providers, current beneficiaries, and prospective students, while also drawing on international best practices to ensure global competitiveness.
Currently, the scholarship programme supports around 500 Emirati students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees at leading universities worldwide.
To strengthen career outcomes, MoHESR has expanded partnerships with more than 10 national organisations across sectors such as energy, aviation, industry, and human resources.
These partnerships include collaborations with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Emirates Global Aluminium, Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, and United Arab Emirates University.
Officials said these collaborations will provide structured training opportunities and clear employment pathways, ensuring graduates transition successfully into the workforce and contribute to national economic priorities.
