UAE moves to protect Emirati students abroad as 46% enrolled in commercial universities, says minister
- Last updated: June 11, 2025 | 14:32
Dr. Abdulrahman Abdulmanan Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, revealed that 46% of Emirati students studying abroad at their own expense are enrolled in just two universities. He noted that these universities have become commercial entities, taking advantage of students’ circumstances.
Additionally, he stated that 25% of Emirati students are enrolled in unclassified universities abroad, emphasizing the government's responsibility to protect its students.
Speaking during a Federal National Council (FNC) session in response to a parliamentary question submitted by Dr. Adnan Al Hammadi, an FNC member, regarding the decision not to recognize the academic qualifications of certain Emirati students abroad, the Minister said it has become evident that some students are attending universities that issue degrees unsuitable for Emirati citizens.
He highlighted that 2,600 Emirati students are enrolled in scholarship programs from local and federal entities and are studying at prestigious international universities. Some of these students have earned recognition and respect from their institutions due to their academic excellence and have even been awarded scholarships by the universities themselves.
The Minister further explained that 3,000 Emirati students are studying abroad at their own expense. The recent decision concerning standards for Emirati students studying at higher education institutions overseas is designed to safeguard their academic future and provide them with the necessary support.
He also clarified that any official statement issued to a student studying abroad includes a clause requiring an annual review to assess the student's academic progress and any changes in their situation.
To implement the new decision and support students, several committees have been established with participation from various entities to regularize the status of students studying abroad.
The Minister also revealed that a decision has been made to close a university within the UAE, with plans to transfer its students to other institutions starting September.