Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in UAE 2026

Many Indian students dream of studying in the UAE, and scholarships now make it easier than ever. These scholarships for Indian students to study in UAE help cover tuition, housing, and even living costs. With world-class universities and career options after graduation, the UAE is becoming a top choice for students. In this blog, you will find everything about the best scholarships, eligibility rules, and easy tips to apply. If you plan to study in the UAE in 2026, this blog will help you take your first step toward a bright global future.

Why Do Indian Students Prefer Studying in the UAE?

Many Indian students choose the UAE because it feels close to home but still offers a global touch. The country has modern universities, safe cities, and plenty of job opportunities after studies. The weather, food, and culture make students feel comfortable, almost like they never left India. Since it’s only a few hours away, there’s no major “I miss home” struggle. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have world-famous campuses such as Heriot-Watt, NYU, and Middlesex. Students can dream big here because the UAE allows work without heavy taxes. It’s safe, clean, and full of Indian festivals, food, and Bollywood vibes everywhere.

Types of Scholarships Available for Indian Students in the UAE

Scholarships in the UAE for Indian students in 2026 come in various forms, fully funded, merit-based, need-based, and research-specific. The UAE offers several financial aid options to make higher education more affordable.

Top Fully Funded Scholarships to Study in the UAE

A fully funded scholarship covers almost every expense, from tuition fees to housing and living costs. These scholarships are ideal for high-performing Indian students aiming to study at the UAE’s top universities without worrying about finances.

Scholarship	Coverage & Benefits	Eligibility for Indian Students
Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship	100% tuition, health insurance, monthly stipend	Must have an excellent academic record and meet English proficiency standards
Mohamed Bin Zayed University (MBZUAI) Scholarship	Full tuition, accommodation, monthly allowance	Full tuition, monthly stipend, and medical insurance
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Full Scholarship	Full tuition, housing, and flight tickets	Open to master’s and PhD students with GPA above 3.5
Al Qasimi Foundation Scholarship	Full tuition, housing, and living costs	For graduate students researching community development or education
NYU Abu Dhabi Global Scholarship	Open to master’s and PhD students with a GPA above 3.5	For academically exceptional students with leadership potential

Government-Funded Scholarships for Indian Students

The UAE government, along with India’s Ministry of External Affairs, supports various scholarship schemes that strengthen education ties between the two nations. These programs help Indian students pursue higher education in UAE institutions recognized for quality and innovation.

Scholarship	Coverage & Benefits	Eligibility for Indian Students
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Scholarship	Tuition fees, training costs	Open to students pursuing STEM or management degrees with academic excellence
ICCR (India) UAE Bilateral Scholarship	Tuition fees and partial living support	Indian nationals nominated by ICCR. Merit-based selection
Emirates Aviation Authority Scholarship	Tuition fees, training cost	For engineering and aviation students with strong academic performance
Zayed University Government Scholarship	Tuition waiver and monthly stipend	Open to high-scoring students meeting university GPA criteria
Dubai Future Foundation Fellowship	Tuition, research grant	For postgraduates working on innovation and tech projects

University-Specific Scholarships in the UAE

Every major UAE university offers its own set of scholarships for international and Indian students. These awards recognize academic excellence, leadership skills, and extracurricular achievements, helping reduce tuition costs for deserving candidates.

Scholarship	Coverage & Benefits	Eligibility for Indian Students
University of Sharjah Merit Scholarship	Up to 50% tuition reduction	For students scoring 90% or higher in previous studies
American University in Dubai (AUD) Academic Scholarship	25% to 100% tuition waiver	For students with high school GPA above 3.8
Heriot-Watt University Dubai Merit Award	30% tuition discount	Open to top academic achievers in undergraduate programs
Middlesex University Dubai International Scholarship	AED 5,000 to AED 20,000 fee reduction	For international students with excellent grades
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (Dubai Campus) Merit Scholarship	Up to 50% tuition fee waiver	For Indian students with academic distinction

Private and External Scholarships for Indian Students

Private foundations and external organizations also support Indian students studying in the UAE. These scholarships focus on leadership, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange, often complementing university or government-based aid.

Scholarship	Coverage & Benefits	Eligibility for Indian Students
Al Qasimi Foundation Doctoral Research Grant	Research funding, accommodation	For PhD students conducting UAE-focused research
INSEAD Middle East Campus Fellowship	Tuition coverage up to 50%	For MBA students with leadership potential
Rotary International Global Grant	Tuition and travel support	For students with community service and leadership experience
Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) Award	Tuition reimbursement	For high-achieving students in education and STEM
Al Dar Education Scholarship	Full or partial tuition	Open to high-performing Indian students at partner institutions

Scholarships for Undergraduate Students in the UAE

Undergraduate scholarships in the UAE give Indian students the chance to start their higher education journey with reduced costs. These scholarships often reward academic excellence, sports talent, or leadership skills.

Scholarship	Coverage & Benefits	Eligibility for Indian Students
Khalifa University Undergraduate Scholarship	100% tuition, health insurance	For students with excellent grades and English proficiency
Amity University Dubai Merit Scholarship	25% to 100% tuition waiver	Based on Class 12 academic results
Canadian University Dubai Academic Excellence Scholarship	Up to 50% tuition reduction	For students scoring 85% or higher in high school
University of Wollongong Dubai High Achievers Scholarship	15% to 50% tuition reduction	For top-ranked students from India
Zayed University Undergraduate Grant	Tuition assistance	For students with financial need and merit performance

Scholarships for Postgraduate and PhD Students in the UAE

Postgraduate and doctoral scholarships in the UAE focus on research excellence and innovation. These awards encourage Indian scholars to contribute to global knowledge, technology, and development.

Scholarship	Coverage & Benefits	Eligibility for Indian Students
MBZUAI Postgraduate Fellowship	Full tuition, housing, monthly stipend	For AI and computer science researchers
Khalifa University Research Scholarship	Full coverage, travel allowance	For STEM-focused master’s and PhD candidates
UAEU Chancellor’s Fellowship	Tuition, housing, and health insurance	For outstanding postgraduate students
Sharjah Research Grant	Research allowance and tuition support	For postgraduate students doing community-based projects
Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) Scholarship	Partial to full tuition support	For students in education, business, or innovation fields

Also Read: Masters Scholarships in Dubai (UAE): Complete Guide

How to Apply for Scholarships in the UAE Step-by-Step

A student should move smartly when applying for scholarships in the UAE. Each step matters. The goal is to look prepared, confident, and slightly different from every other applicant.

Step 1: Gather all documents first

Start by keeping every required paper in one clean folder. Collect your passport, academic transcripts, English test score, CV, and recommendation letters. Most rejections happen because of missing files. Scan and label everything clearly before you even begin your form.

Step 2: Make one short study pitch page

Create a one-page document or Google Doc that says who you are, what you studied, and why you deserve this scholarship. Keep it easy to read and honest. For example: “I want to study AI in UAE to build low-cost tech for schools in India.” It shows a clear purpose, and reviewers love that clarity.

Step 3: Record a 60-second video pitch

Make a simple video using your phone. Look at the camera, smile, and explain why you chose the UAE. No filters, no heavy editing, just real energy. Say your name, your dream, and your goal. This step is optional, but when you add this to your application or email, it instantly makes you memorable.

Step 4: Match each scholarship with one unique essay

Don’t send the same essay to everyone. Each scholarship has a theme, leadership, innovation, or community. You should tweak your story to fit. If one scholarship wants community work, talk about how you helped in school or your city. The goal is to show real experiences, not fancy words.

Step 5: Email a relevant faculty or admission contact

Find one faculty or admission officer linked to your program and send a polite, short email. Add your pitch link or study plan. This shows that you are serious about joining their university, not just applying everywhere. Most students skip this step, but it builds early trust and recognition.

Step 6: Ask referees to send letters directly

Always confirm that your teachers or mentors send your recommendation letters on time. You can remind them gently a week before the deadline. If the letter must be uploaded, give them the correct link and instructions. One missing reference can delay or cancel your entire application.

Step 7: Follow up and track your progress

After two weeks, if you get no reply, send one short and respectful follow-up email. Meanwhile, keep a tracker sheet with the scholarship name, deadline, submission date, and status. It helps you stay calm and organized, and shows you’re treating your application like a real project.

Also Read: MBA Scholarships in Dubai (UAE) 2026-27 for International Students

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for UAE Scholarships?

A student must meet certain rules before getting a scholarship in the UAE. These rules check your marks, money needs, English level, and documents. Every scholarship is slightly different, but most follow the same basic structure. You should understand each category clearly so you don’t miss out on any chance.

Category	Eligibility Requirements
Academic Requirements	Must have strong grades. For postgraduate or PhD, a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree from a recognized university. Some top scholarships also need research or project experience.
English Language Requirement	Must have a valid IELTS or TOEFL score. Some universities also accept Duolingo or MOI certificates from English-medium schools.
Financial Need Criteria	For need-based scholarships, you must show income proof or family financial documents that show genuine need. Some merit scholarships do not ask for financial proof.
Nationality Requirement	Must be an Indian citizen with a valid passport and student visa eligibility under UAE rules. OCI or PIO cardholders are also accepted in some cases.
Visa and Residence Rules	Must apply for a UAE student visa after getting admission. The scholarship office may issue a sponsorship letter for visa processing. A clean background and valid health insurance are also required.
Documents Required	Academic transcripts, degree certificates, passport copy, CV, English test scorecard, Statement of Purpose, recommendation letters, and any extra proof like work experience or certificates.
Age Limit	Usually between 17 to 30 years for undergraduate and postgraduate levels. For a PhD, up to 35 years in most universities.
Health and Insurance	Must pass a medical fitness test and have health insurance valid in the UAE before visa stamping.
Enrollment Type	Must be enrolled full-time in a recognized UAE university. Part-time or distance learners are rarely eligible for major scholarships.
Application Timing	Should apply 6 to 8 months before the academic intake. Late or incomplete forms are often rejected.

Cost of Studying and Living in the UAE After Scholarship

A student in the UAE spends much less after getting a scholarship, but there are still some basic monthly costs to plan for. Knowing these costs early helps you make a smart budget and avoid last-minute stress. The total living expense can change depending on your lifestyle, city, and type of housing.

Category	Average Monthly Expense
Tuition Fees (after scholarship)	0 to 3,000 AED (many scholarships cover full or partial tuition)
Accommodation or Hostel Rent	1,500 to 3,500 AED (shared room) 4,000 to 6,000 AED (private studio)
Food & Groceries	800 to 1,500 AED
Transportation	200 to 800 AED
Utilities (Wi-Fi, electricity, water)	300 to 600 AED, depending on the location and roommates
Study Materials & Stationery	150 to 300 AED
Health Insurance	200 to 400 AED
Personal & Leisure Expenses	300 to 700 AED
Visa Renewal & Misc. Costs	100 to 200 AED

Also Read: Complete Guide to Ph.D. Scholarships in UAE for International Students

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This was everything you needed to know about scholarships for Indian students to study in the UAE, including eligibility, types, top funding options, and smart steps to apply successfully. For more such detailed guides on scholarships and study opportunities abroad, visit the Scholarships Page on Leverage Edu and stay updated with reliable information.