With growing concerns over US student visa issues, universities in the United Arab Emirates are seeing a sharp increase in international applications. Institutions across the UAE are offering scholarships, easy visa processes, and global transfer options to attract students, especially those rethinking plans to study in the United States, according to a report by Gulf News.
The shift comes amid policy uncertainty in the US, where international students are facing unpredictable visa outcomes. A proclamation by former US President Donald Trump, although temporarily blocked by a federal judge, had raised concerns by attempting to ban foreign students from attending institutions like Harvard. Many students are now seeking countries with more stable policies.
To meet this growing interest, UAE universities are offering new incentives. Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) launched an Excellence Scholarship for the September 2025 intake, which includes up to 100% tuition fee waivers for top-performing postgraduate students. Camille Assouline, Head of Communications at SUAD, said to Gulf News, “To support outstanding postgraduate students, we’ve launched a new Excellence Scholarship for the September 2025 intake, offering up to 100 per cent off tuition fees for top-ranked applicants from globally ranked universities.” She added, “Awards are based on academic performance and IELTS results – making internationally recognised education more accessible to top talent.”
As per the report by Gulf News, Gulf Medical University (GMU) is holding international webinars, campus visits, and digital sessions to guide students. Professor Manda Venkatramana, Acting Chancellor of GMU, told Gulf News, “These initiatives aim to provide clarity, guidance, and direct engagement with our academic advisors and admissions team. We see this moment as more than just a recruitment opportunity – it’s a chance to position the UAE as a long-term leader in global medical and health sciences education.”
Universities are also offering flexibility in campus options. Heriot-Watt University’s Go Global programme allows students to transfer freely between its campuses in Dubai, Edinburgh, and Kuala Lumpur. Professor Dame Heather McGregor, Provost and Vice Principal at Heriot-Watt Dubai, told Gulf News, “Should students want to study in the UK at a later stage, Heriot-Watt allows them to freely transfer between our campuses.”