UAE citizens can now receive scholarships for fully online university programmes
UAE citizens can now receive government scholarships to study academic programmes delivered entirely online, under new regulations issued by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR). Under Ministerial Resolution No. 179 of 2026, scholarships may be granted for fully distance-learning programmes if the educational institution is ranked among the world’s top 20 universities…
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the UAE has introduced new regulations granting government scholarships for fully online university programmes. Ministerial Resolution No. 179 of 2026 allows scholarships for programmes delivered entirely online, provided the educational institution is ranked within the world's top 20 universities according to internationally-recognized rankings.
This new policy offers Emirati students greater flexibility in obtaining international education without the necessity of residing in the host country.
An exception exists for institutions designated as priority universities, even if they do not meet the ranking requirement. This designation may apply when a university has a strong international reputation in a specialized field, supports a national priority, or is part of a strategic UAE partnership. However, eight categories of study are generally ineligible for scholarships, including MBA and Executive MBA programmes, administrative and executive leader preparatory programmes, continuing education or professional studies courses, preparatory courses before postgraduate studies, programmes requiring admission to two degrees or two majors, and English-language programmes, except in specified cases.
Language proficiency requirements are also addressed, with students allowed to receive scholarships for programs taught in the official language of a non-English-speaking country. They may complete a language program prior to beginning their academic studies and apply for the scholarship once they have successfully completed the language course and met the institution's admission requirements.
The reforms aim to boost flexible learning options in the UAE, with 2,325 students enrolled in distance-learning programmes at the Higher Colleges of Technology. The Ministry currently sponsors 532 students, while an additional 1,793 students are sponsored by other scholarship bodies in coordination with the Ministry across 22 countries.
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