MBZUAI Scholarships 2026 in UAE | Fully Funded

MBZUAI Scholarships 2026 offer a remarkable chance for students worldwide to pursue advanced studies in artificial intelligence in the UAE with full financial support. This prestigious scholarship program is designed to equip learners with cutting-edge AI knowledge and skills through diverse academic programs led by expert faculty. By fostering a vibrant, multicultural learning environment, MBZUAI Scholarships 2026 aim to empower students to become future leaders driving innovation and positive global impact.

This fully-funded scholarship initiative supports Mohamed Bin Zayed University’s mission to cultivate interdisciplinary research and development in AI, attracting top talent from around the globe. Recipients of the MBZUAI Scholarships 2026 gain access to world-class resources and industry collaborations that enhance their ability to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s vision of an AI-driven economy. Through this program, students are prepared to become influential innovators and critical thinkers who will advance technological progress both within the UAE and internationally.

Benefits

• 100% free tuition fees
• Health insurance coverage
• UAE visa sponsorship for non-UAE nationals
• Monthly stipend for international students:
  • MSc students: AED 15,000 
  • PhD students: AED 17,500
• Monthly Stipend for UAE national students:
  • MSc: AED 37,500 
  • PhD: AED 43,500

Eligibility Criteria

Master’s Degree Program 2026

• Candidates should have four years bachelor’s degree or any degree equivalent to U.A.E college or university degrees.
• The candidate must obtain a minimum of 3.2 grades out of 4.00 from a reputable accredited university.
• A minimum level of English Proficiency in form of either IBT TOEFL (90 scores or equivalent), or IELTS score of 6.0, or 1550 EmSAT English score.
• Statement of Purpose (800 words).
• A minimum of two referee recommendations
• Entry Test.
• Admission Interview

Doctoral Program 2026

• The candidate must have a bachelor’s and master’s degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.2 out of 4.0.
• A minimum level of English Proficiency in form of either IBT TOEFL (90 scores or equivalent), or IELTS score of 6.0, or a 1550 EmSAT English score.
• Statement of Purpose (800 words).
• Comprehensive Research Statement.
• A minimum of two referee recommendations
• Entry Test.
• Admission Interview

Documents Required for the United Arab Emirates Scholarships:

Application documents must be submitted in English or accompanied by official English translations. All academic documents must also be stamped and signed by the relevant university authorities.

For All Applicants

• Online application form
• CV detailing academic background, work experience, and skills
• Official transcripts and degree certificates (Bachelor’s and/or Master’s)
• Referee recommendations (2 for MSc, 3 for PhD)
• Research statement (PhD only) and Statement of Purpose
• Valid English proficiency certificate and GRE (if applicable)
• Valid passport and national ID (if required)
• Photo with white background
• Optional entrance exam (recommended)

For UAE Nationals

• Valid Emirates ID
• Valid passport copy with unified ID number
• UAE national service completion/exemption letter (for UAE national males only)
• Family book (or mother’s family book for Abnat Mwatnat applicants)
• UAE birth certificate (for Abnat Mwatnat applicants)
• Mother’s valid Emirates ID and passport (for Abnat Mwatnat applicants)
• Valid UAE visa (for non-GCC Abnat Mwatnat applicants)

Programs under MBZUAI Scholarships 2026

Master’s Programs (M.Sc.) and PhD Programs

• Computer Science
• Computer Vision
• Machine Learning
• Natural Language Processing
• Robotics
• Statistics and Data Science

Duration of the UAE Scholarship

• Master’s Degree Scholarship: 2 Years
• PhD Scholarship: 4 Years

MBZUAI Scholarship Deadline

• Priority Deadline: November 15, 2025
• Final Deadline: December 15, 2025.

How to Apply?

• Check if you meet the eligibility criteria, including having a STEM degree from an accredited university and the required CGPA.
• Prepare all necessary documents: CV, official transcripts and degree certificates, statement of purpose, research statement (for Ph.D.), referee recommendations, English proficiency certificate, passport copy, and a recent photo.
• Complete the online application form and upload all required documents in English or with certified translations. Make sure academic documents are officially stamped and signed.
• Request at least two referee recommendations for M.Sc. and three for Ph.D. applicants, ensuring referees submit their letters on time.
• Take the screening exam covering advanced mathematics, programming, and for Ph.D. applicants, machine learning and core computer science topics.
• Attend the technical interview if invited by the admissions committee.
• Wait for the admission decision, which will be announced by March 15, 2026 (5 p.m. GST).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

MBZUAI Scholarships 2026 offer full tuition, stipends, and benefits for STEM graduates. Applicants must submit detailed documents, pass a screening exam, and may attend interviews. Decisions are announced by March 15, 2026. The program supports both UAE nationals and international students.