Fully Funded Scholarship in Dubai for Indian Students in 2026

If you are an Indian or international student looking to pursue a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD program in 2026, Dubai offers several fully funded scholarships to make your academic dreams a reality. These scholarships allow you to study in Dubai’s vibrant academic landscape, gain global exposure, and kickstart your education without the stress of tuition fees.

This article dives deep into the top fully funded scholarships in Dubai (UAE), covering the most prestigious options, eligibility criteria, and application tips. From the specialized MBZUAI Scholarships in Artificial Intelligence to other high-profile programs, we’ll equip you with all the knowledge you need to find the perfect scholarship that matches your academic and career goals.

List of Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Dubai 2026

These top fully funded scholarships are your golden ticket. Programs like MBZUAI, Khalifa University, UAEU, ADU, and Al Qasimi Foundation cover tuition, housing, and sometimes even a stipend, so you can focus on learning and leveling up instead of stressing about fees. Here is quick overview before we go deep into them. 

Scholarship Name	Type	Provider	Benefit	Eligibility in 2026
Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) Scholarship	University-Specific	MBZUAI, Abu Dhabi	Indian students eligible, must meet STEM background, GPA, and English-test scores	Indian students eligible, must meet STEM background, GPA, English-test scores
Khalifa University Graduate / International Student Scholarship	University-Specific	Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi	Full tuition, medical insurance, free accommodation, visa, travel in some cases	Open to all nationalities including Indian, strong academic record required
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) International Scholarship	University-Specific	UAEU, Al Ain, UAE	100% tuition waiver for top international students, may include living support for select programs	Indian students eligible, must meet high GPA and admission criteria
Abu Dhabi University (ADU) Full Tuition / Scholarship Awards	University-Specific	ADU, Abu Dhabi	Scholarships covering full tuition and in some cases more for high-achieving international students	Indian students eligible, merit-based selection
Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation Grants & Scholarships	Private / Foundation	Al Qasimi Foundation, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE	Fully funded programs: tuition, living, research stipend for strategic study areas	Indian students eligible, must show strong academic or research profile

Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Dubai 2026

Studying in Dubai can get expensive, but some scholarships cover everything so you don’t have to worry about tuition, housing, or living costs. For 2026, the leading scholarships include MBZUAI, Khalifa University, UAEU, ADU, and Al Qasimi Foundation grants. These programs are designed for high-achieving students and give you the freedom to focus on your studies, research, and building a strong career. Let’s cover each one by one. 

Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) Scholarship

When you secure admission to MBZUAI’s full-time Master’s or PhD programs in Abu Dhabi, you get one of the most generous fully funded scholarships in Dubai. The scholarship covers 100% tuition, provides a monthly stipend, sponsors your UAE visa and health insurance, and may include on-campus housing. This allows you to fully focus on AI research and studies without worrying about fees.

Key Benefits

• Tuition: fully covered for all admitted full-time students.
  
• Monthly stipend: AED 15,500 for MSc students, AED 17,500 for PhD students.
  
• Additional perks: visa sponsorship, health insurance, and optional on-campus housing or housing support included in the stipend.

Eligibility 

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field for MSc, both Bachelor’s and Master’s for PhD.
  
• Minimum cumulative GPA around 3.2 out of 4.0, or equivalent..
  
• English proficiency test required unless exempted.
  
• Indian qualifications must be officially recognised, transcripts should be clear and complete.

Application Process & Deadlines for 2026 Intake

• Application portal opens: 1 September 2025.
  
• Priority deadline: 15 November 2025. Final deadline: 15 December 2025.
  
• Decision notification: 15 March 2026. Offer acceptance deadline: 15 April 2026.
  
• Admission automatically includes the scholarship. No separate form needed.

Important Notes

• On-campus housing may have a standard fee deducted from the stipend, approx. AED 7,500 per month.
  
• Admission is highly competitive, a strong academic profile, research interest, and relevant projects help you stand out.
  
• Prepare all documents early: transcripts, degree certificates, English test, statement of purpose, reference letters, and research proposal for PhD applicants.
  
• Maintain good academic standing to keep the scholarship after admission.

Khalifa University Graduate/International Student Scholarship

Khalifa University offers one of the top fully funded scholarships for Master’s and PhD students in the UAE. Once you are admitted full-time, you automatically qualify for financial support that covers tuition and other benefits. This scholarship is designed to help international students, including Indians, focus completely on research, projects, and studies without worrying about fees or basic living essentials.

Key Benefits

• Full tuition coverage for Master’s and PhD programs.
  
• Monthly stipend for PhD students, approx. AED 20,000 per month with additional allowances based on performance.
  
• Health insurance, visa support, and in certain tiers, accommodation or housing assistance.
  
• Access to research resources, labs, and potential conference support.

Eligibility 

• Must be admitted full-time to a Master’s or PhD program at Khalifa University.
  
• Strong academic record, with research potential for PhD applicants.
  
• Meet English-language proficiency requirements..
  
• Indian qualifications must be recognized, and all transcripts/certificates must be official.
  
• Maintain academic standing throughout the program to retain the scholarship.

Application Process & Tentative Deadlines

• You apply via Khalifa University’s postgraduate admission portal. Scholarship consideration is automatic, no separate form is needed.
  
• The portal currently shows Spring 2026 admission is closed, and notifications will be sent when the next cycle opens.
  
• Tentative deadline for 2026 intake: Around mid-September 2025, based on previous cycles. 

Important Notes for Indian Students

• Scholarship tiers differ, even full tuition scholarships may vary in stipend or benefits depending on your admission profile.
  
• Some tiers may include a work-commitment clause after graduation.
  
• Cost of living in Abu Dhabi/UAE should be considered even with generous support.
  
• Prepare all required documents early: transcripts, degree certificates, CV, statement of purpose, reference letters, and research proposal (for PhD).

United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) International Scholarship

When you enrol full‑time at UAEU (in Al Ain, UAE), this scholarship could cover your full tuition and more, especially if you aim for a postgraduate programme and show top performance. The university awards international‑student scholarships to boost its global campus and support high‑achievers who want to study in the UAE.

Key Benefits

• Full tuition waiver for graduate programmes plus for some top undergrad applicants.
  
• For PhD students: monthly stipend, health insurance and in many cases housing support.
  
• Extensive access to research facilities, labs and university‑level assistantships (for eligible candidates).

Eligibility 

• For graduate (Master’s/PhD): you must hold the required previous degree (Bachelor’s for Master’s & Master’s for PhD) from a recognised institution.
  
• Academic record strong (often minimum GPA  3.0‑3.5/4.0 or equivalent) for graduate programmes.
  
• For undergrads aiming at the scholarship: extremely high school scores, English proficiency and if relevant, math/other test scores.
  
• Indian applicants must ensure their certificates/transcripts are officially recognised and meet university requirements.
  
• Must be admitted full‑time and remain in good standing throughout the scholarship period.

Application Process & Tentative Deadline for 2026 Intake

• You apply via UAEU’s admission portal, the scholarship evaluation is part of the university’s process for eligible students (no separate external form for many cases).
  
• From prior cycles: the deadline for the graduate scholarship was around January–March 2026 for intake 2026‑27. Note: This is tentative and you must check UAEU’s official site for the exact 2026 deadline.
  
• Ensure you submit all required documents early: academic transcripts, proof of English language competency, CV, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation (especially for graduate/research‑oriented programmes).

Important Notes for Indian Students

• Some “fully funded” labels cover tuition and stipend but may not include housing or personal living expenses, check details carefully.
  
• The competition is intense, especially for graduate scholarships. Research experience, a strong profile and timely application improve your chances.
  
• Even with a tuition waiver and stipend, making a budget for accommodation, food and visa‑related costs in UAE is wise.
  
• Keep your GPA and credit load up to the required standard each semester to maintain the scholarship eligibility.

Abu Dhabi University (ADU) Full Tuition/Scholarship Awards

When you enroll full‑time at ADU, you can qualify for merit‑based scholarships that significantly reduce or even fully waive tuition fees. The university’s official scholarship page lists a range of programmes, from tuition waivers of 10% up to 100% in certain special cases. These awards allow you to focus on your studies in the UAE without being throttled by financial stress.

Key Benefits

• In specific schemes, 100% waiver on tuition, plus application, registration, student services, and health service fees.
  
• Other scholarships may offer large tuition waivers around 50% based on academic performance, major, and campus.
  
• Scholarships are linked to admission status and maintained for up to 4 years or until graduation.

Eligibility

• Must apply and be admitted full‑time in an eligible programme.
  
• Academic criteria vary: e.g., for graduate merit-based waiver, undergraduate strong CGPA.
  
• Undergraduate applicants must join within two years of secondary school graduation and meet English proficiency and credit-hour requirements.
  
• Indian degrees must be recognised, and transcripts must meet ADU’s admission standards.
  
• Must meet English-language test requirements and full-time registration (minimum 12 credit hours in fall/spring).

Application Process & Tentative Deadline for 2026 Intake

• After admission, scholarship/financial-aid options appear in the student portal. You fill the online form for the scholarship you qualify for.
  
• While ADU doesn’t publish a fixed “100% tuition waiver for all international students” deadline for 2026, previous cycles had deadlines around mid-year.
  
• Tentative deadline for merit-based scholarship for 2026: plan to submit by June 2025. Confirm the exact date on ADU’s official scholarship page when released.

Important Notes for Indian Students

• Confirm that the scholarship covers full tuition & fees (application, registration, health), as details vary by scheme.
  
• Some scholarships may have nationality or regional restrictions. Check that Indian nationality qualifies.
  
• Maintaining the scholarship requires sustaining specific CGPA and credit-hour requirements, and not repeating courses with failing grades.
  
• Living costs in Abu Dhabi/UAE and visa/residence formalities remain your responsibility.
  
• Prepare transcripts, English test scores, CV, statement of purpose, and other documents early, especially when converting Indian grades to UAE equivalents.

Al Qasimi Foundation Grants & Scholarships 

When you apply for the Foundation’s overseas or domestic scholarship programmes, you’re looking at strong support for tuition, living, research, and more, depending on the type of award you’re eligible for. Their focus is on high‑impact degrees and research that align with UAE strategic goals, so this is more than a “just study” deal.

Key Benefits

• Some scholarship/award types cover tuition & fees for eligible programmes.
  
• Select full‑funded grants for research/doctoral level include tuition, furnished accommodation for up to 12 months, travel/airfare, living stipend, and research support.
  
• The Foundation’s awards often open up access to overseas study at top institutions if criteria are met.

Eligibility 

• The majority of awards are for UAE nationals from Ras Al Khaimah, so Indian student eligibility is limited or indirect.
  
• For overseas master or doctoral level awards: prior degree(s) with high GPA are required.
  
• English‑language proficiency required, for example, IELTS 6.5+ for many overseas awards.
  
• Research‑focused grants must include UAE or Ras Al Khaimah as part of the study or fieldwork plan.
  
• Indian students: you’ll need to verify with the Foundation whether your nationality qualifies or if co‑sponsorship cuts apply.

Application Process & Tentative Deadline for 2026 Intake

• You must fill the online application on the Foundation’s portal when the cycle opens.
  
• For research‑grant awards: the cycle opens December 2025 and closes by 1 April, based on recent years.
  
• Tentative deadline for 2026 cycle: Around April 2026 for submission of full research‑grant applications. Check official page for exact dates.

Important Notes for Indian Students

• Because the Foundation’s main focus is UAE‑national students, Indian applicants must do extra checks on nationality eligibility.
  
• “Fully funded” in their context often means full tuition, accommodation, and stipend for specific research awards, not standard undergraduate scholarships.
  
• Maintain strong academic standing, submit a compelling research proposal (if applying for research grant), and meet all conditions to keep funding.
  
• Even if tuition is covered, living‑costs, visa process and personal expenses may still fall on you, budget accordingly.

Also Read: Wollongong University Dubai Scholarships 2026

Partial Scholarships in Dubai 2026 for International Students

Looking for some financial help but not a full ride? Dubai also offers partial scholarships for international students which cover part of your tuition or offer specific allowances like accommodation or academic support. These scholarships are a great way to reduce costs while still gaining access to world-class education in the UAE.

Key Benefits of Partial Scholarships

• Tuition fee waivers ranging from 25% to 75%, depending on merit, program, and university.
  
• Some scholarships provide additional perks like accommodation support, health insurance, or research grants.
  
• Helps students balance financial burden while still enjoying full academic experience.

Scholarship Name	Type	Provider	Benefit	Coverage Amount	Eligibility
Canadian University Dubai Academic Excellence / Financial Hardship Scholarship	University-Specific	Canadian University Dubai	Partial tuition waiver for merit or financial need	25%-50% of tuition	Indian students must have strong academic record or demonstrate financial need
Abu Dhabi University General Merit / University Scholarship	University-Specific	Abu Dhabi University	Partial tuition waiver based on merit	25%-75% of tuition	Indian students must meet minimum GPA requirements and English proficiency
Middlesex University Dubai Scholarship	University-Specific	Middlesex University Dubai	Partial tuition waiver for outstanding performance	25%-50% of tuition	Indian students must have strong prior academic record and English proficiency

Canadian University Dubai Academic Excellence / Financial Hardship Scholarship

Canadian University Dubai (CUD) offers partial scholarships aimed at high-achieving students or those facing financial difficulty. This scholarship helps international students, including Indian applicants, manage tuition costs while accessing quality Canadian-style education in Dubai.

Key Benefits

• Partial tuition waiver ranging from 25% to 50%, depending on academic merit or financial need.
  
• Some scholarships include additional perks like priority registration or academic support programs.
  
• Enables students to reduce financial burden without compromising the full learning experience.

Eligibility 

• Must be admitted full-time to an eligible undergraduate or graduate program at CUD.
  
• Academic Excellence Scholarship: high school or prior degree GPA must meet or exceed the university’s threshold.
  
• Financial Hardship Scholarship: students must demonstrate genuine financial need through documentation.
  
• English proficiency is required.
  
• Indian transcripts and degrees must be officially recognized and meet university standards.

Application Process & Tentative Deadline for 2026 Intake

• Scholarship applications are submitted via the university’s admission portal after receiving admission confirmation.
  
• Required documents: academic transcripts, CV, statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and financial documentation if applying for financial hardship.
  
• Tentative deadlines for Fall 2026 intake: March to May 2026, based on previous cycles. Always check the official university portal for the confirmed 2026 deadline.

Abu Dhabi University General Merit / University Scholarship

When you enrol full‑time at ADU, you can qualify for a merit‑based scholarship that partially reduces your tuition fees. This scholarship rewards academic achievement and helps students cover part of the cost of studying in the UAE.

Key Benefits

• A tuition fee waiver ranging from 15 % up to 50 % for eligible students.
  
• Postgraduate Merit‑based Graduate Scholarship: 25 % tuition waiver for students with strong undergraduate records.
  
• Scholarship remains valid for up to four years or until graduation, whichever comes first.

Eligibility

• Must be admitted full‑time into an eligible programme at ADU.
  
• Undergraduate University‑Scholarship: recent secondary school graduates (within last two years), meeting high school academic criteria, joining full-time (minimum 12 credit hours), and meeting English‑language requirements.
  
• Postgraduate Merit‑based scholarship: requires undergraduate degree, strong CGPA, and full-time enrolment.
  
• Indian applicants must ensure their previous degree or high-school qualification is recognised, transcripts meet requirements, and English proficiency is documented.
  
• Maintain minimum CGPA each semester to continue receiving the scholarship.

Application Process & Tentative Deadline for 2026 Intake

• After admission, check your student portal for eligible scholarships. Submit the online application if required.
  
• Tentative deadline for 2026 intake: June 2025, based on previous cycles.
  
• Prepare documents early: academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, high-school/undergraduate records, statement of purpose or CV if required.

Middlesex University Dubai Scholarship

When you secure admission at Middlesex University Dubai full‑time, you become eligible for a range of partial scholarships/grants designed to reduce your tuition so you can study in Dubai with less stress on your wallet.

Key Benefits

• Tuition fee waivers or grants anywhere from 10 % up to about 50 % depending on your programme, merit and eligibility.
  
• For international applicants there is an “International Study Grant” which is valid for foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
  
• Some specific grants like for sports excellence, schools partnerships, alumni offer one‑time or continuing support on tuition fees.

Eligibility

• Must apply and be admitted full‑time at Middlesex University Dubai in an eligible programme.
  
• For “Academic Excellence” type awards: high prior academic performance is required.
  
• For “International Study Grant”: you must be an international applicant from outside UAE to eligible levels.
  
• Indian previous qualifications must be recognised and you must meet English‑language proficiency requirements.
  
• Scholarships or grants generally continue only if you maintain the required academic standards each year.

Application Process & Tentative Deadline for 2026 Intake

• After admission offer, check the scholarship/grant section of the university’s portal to see what you qualify for. You will typically accept your offer and pay a deposit to secure the grant.
  
• Deadline for specific grants is not always explicitly published for “2026 only”, but previous grant programmes referenced Academic Year 2025/2026 starting September 2025, so for 2026 intake you should aim to finish your scholarship‑application steps by early to mid‑2026 (for September 2026 entry) and ideally by March ­– May 2026.
  
• Prepare documents: academic transcripts, proof of previous qualification, English test, admission offer, deposit payment.

Also Read: IMT Dubai Scholarships 2025: Complete Details

How to apply for Scholarships to Study in Dubai for Indian Students?

Here’s how to apply for scholarships to study in Dubai for Indian students:

• Look at universities in Dubai and see what scholarships they offer for your level of study (undergrad, master’s, PhD) and your field of study.
• Make sure you meet the requirements for each scholarship. This might include your grades, what country you’re from, and what you want to study.
• Prepare your school transcripts, certificates, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose (why you want to study there), a resume, and maybe English test scores.
• Some scholarships require you to get accepted to the school first. Follow the university’s application process and deadlines.
• Once you’re in or have applied to the program, apply for the scholarship. This might be online or involve extra documents.
• Many scholarships want a personal statement. Explain why you want to study in Dubai, what you want to achieve in your studies and career, and how the scholarship helps you get there.
• Some scholarships ask for letters from teachers or professors. Ask well in advance and give them the info to write about you.
• Be prepared to answer questions about the scholarship in an interview. Research the program beforehand.
• Submit your application well before the deadline to be considered.
• The scholarship committee or university might contact you for more info or tell you about your application status.
• If you get a scholarship, carefully read the conditions. This includes how long it lasts, how to keep it, and what you need to do as a scholarship recipient.

Factors Affecting Selection For Scholarships in Dubai 2026

For both Indian and International students, your chances of getting a fully funded scholarship in Dubai in 2026 can be affected by many factors. These are some important factors to think about.

• Successful academic success, especially in the subject that you want to study, is a key part of most scholarship applications.
• Depending on the Scholarship and program, standardized tests like SAT, ACT, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, or GRE scores may be required and can significantly impact your selection.
• It can be very helpful to show that you have experience and research potential, especially in Science, Engineering, and Technology.
• Many scholarships seek individuals who show leadership skills, involvement in extracurricular activities, and commitment to making a positive impact on society.
• Write a strong letter of recommendation.
• It is important that your statement of purpose clearly explains your academic goals, why you want a scholarship, and how it will help you.
• Some scholarships may only be available to people from certain countries or areas.
• A lot of scholarships are for students who want to study in specific areas, like business, healthcare, or STEM.
• Make sure your application is complete, free of grammatical mistakes, and includes all the required documents.
• A lot of scholarships actively promote diversity and inclusion.

Also Read: Heriot-Watt University Dubai Scholarships 2026-27: A Complete Guide

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This was all about fully funded scholarships in Dubai 2026 for Indian and international students. We covered the top fully funded scholarships, partial scholarship options, eligibility tips, and application insights to help you grab your dream scholarship without breaking a sweat. If you’re serious about studying in Dubai, start your applications now, stay organized, and make the most of these opportunities. Your future self will thank you. For more information like this, stay tuned with our Scholarships Page on Leverage Edu and stay updated!