The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a primary destination for Pakistani students seeking high-quality international education with full financial backing. For the 2026 academic year, Dubai scholarships for Pakistani students provide comprehensive funding packages including 100% tuition waivers, monthly stipends ranging from AED 5,000 to AED 20,000, and free on-campus housing. To qualify, Pakistani applicants must typically possess a strong academic record with a minimum CGPA of 3.2 to 3.5 and demonstrate English proficiency via IELTS, TOEFL, or a valid Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate. Furthermore, top institutions like Khalifa University and MBZUAI offer specialized tracks in Engineering and Artificial Intelligence that include annual airfare and medical insurance for successful candidates.
Dubai universities host talented Pakistani scholars. The UAE government funds these educational initiatives. International applicants submit digital documents. Successful candidates receive residence visa sponsorship.
These specific Dubai scholarships are mentioned because they represent the most verified and generous funding opportunities available to Pakistani nationals in 2026. Each program aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision to attract global expertise while offering Pakistani students a pathway to international career opportunities. Use the following factual data to meet eligibility criteria and secure your admission for the upcoming cycle.
1. Khalifa University Scholarship 2026
Khalifa University (KU) offers the most distinguished fully funded scholarships at Dubai universities for Pakistani students pursuing STEM degrees. The scholarship is available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels.
- Benefits: 100% tuition waiver, monthly stipend (up to AED 20,000 for PhD), free housing, and medical insurance.
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in a related field with a minimum CGPA of 3.5 for postgraduate tracks.
- Deadline: March 2, 2026 (Fall intake).
2. MBZUAI Scholarship (Artificial Intelligence)
The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence provides full funding to Pakistani students interested in AI, Machine Learning, and Robotics.
- Benefits: 100% tuition fees, monthly allowance (AED 15,500 for Master’s / AED 17,500 for PhD), and visa sponsorship.
- Eligibility: Minimum CGPA of 3.2/4.0 and an IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL iBT of 90.
- Deadline: January 15, 2026 (Regular) / May 31, 2026 (Late).
3. University of Dubai Merit Scholarship
The University of Dubai (UD) offers tiered merit awards for Pakistani students applying for Business, Law, or Engineering programs.
- Benefits: 50% tuition reduction for students with high school scores of 95% and above.
- Eligibility: Must maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.3 to 3.5 to continue receiving the discount each year.
- Process: Submit the undergraduate application form online; no separate scholarship application is required.
4. Middlesex University Dubai Regional Award
Middlesex University Dubai offers a dedicated “Regional Award” specifically for Pakistani nationals to study in the UAE.
- Benefits: A £1,000 (approx. AED 4,600) grant applied toward tuition fees for the first year.
- Eligibility: Pakistani passport holders who meet the standard entry requirements (minimum 65% in Bachelor’s for PG entry).
- Additional Awards: Can be combined with Early Bird discounts if applied for by February 15, 2026.
Eligibility Criteria for Pakistani Students
To qualify for a 2026 Dubai scholarship, Pakistani applicants must fulfill four primary administrative conditions. You must provide verified academic transcripts from the Higher Education Commission (HEC) or relevant boards. Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, or a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from their previous university. You must submit a valid Pakistani passport copy and a clear white-background photograph. Finally, postgraduate candidates must craft a 500-1,000 word statement of purpose and provide two to three academic reference letters.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow these five specific steps to successfully apply for scholarships in Dubai in 2026.
- Select a Program: Choose an academic track that matches your previous schooling and career goals.
- Create an Account: Register on the university’s admission portal (e.g., Khalifa University or MBZUAI portal).
- Upload Documents: Attach your CV, transcripts, English test results, and letters of recommendation in PDF format.
- Submit Research Proposal: Provide a 500-1,000 word research statement, if you are applying for a PhD track.
- Complete Interview: Attend the mandatory admission interview via video call if you are shortlisted by the committee.
While many Pakistani students focus on the UAE, those interested in long-term academic research may also consider the Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship for international students as a high-value alternative.
