By ABDULLAH Khalifa University, one of the UAE’s most prestigious research institutions, has officially opened applications for its fully funded PhD Scholarship 2026 (Spring intake). Designed for both international students and UAE nationals, the program offers a rare chance to pursue doctoral research in a world-class academic and innovation hub with all expenses covered.
Recognized globally for cutting-edge research, Khalifa University consistently ranks among the top universities in the Middle East. From engineering and computer science to biomedical research and public health, the university has become a destination of choice for ambitious scholars seeking advanced training in one of the world’s fastest-growing education systems.
- Host Country: United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Institution: Khalifa University (Abu Dhabi)
- Program Level: Doctoral (PhD)
- Funding Status: Fully Funded
- Intake Session: Spring 2026
- Deadline: September 15, 2025
The scholarship is designed to remove financial barriers for top talent worldwide. Scholars not only receive tuition coverage but also a monthly stipend, housing or accommodation allowance, health insurance, and research funding support.
According to university officials, the funding package can exceed $100,000 per student over the duration of the program.
The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026 offers one of the most comprehensive packages in the region:
✅ Full tuition fee waiver (100%)
✅ Free textbooks & learning materials
✅ On-campus housing or housing allowance
✅ Comprehensive health insurance
✅ Monthly living stipend (competitive by UAE standards)
✅ Visa processing and full immigration support
✅ Round-trip airfare for international students
✅ Funding for conference participation and research internships
“Khalifa University continues to invest heavily in research-driven education. This scholarship ensures that the best minds, regardless of background, can thrive in Abu Dhabi’s innovation ecosystem.” — University spokesperson
Khalifa University offers doctoral programs across three major colleges:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical and Mechanical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Chemistry, Physics & Earth Sciences
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Engineering Systems & Management
- Computer Science
- Robotics
- Computer & Information Engineering
- Mathematics
- Biomedical Engineering
- Biomedical Sciences
- Molecular Life Sciences
- Public Health
To apply for the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field (min. GPA 3.0/4.0)
- Master’s degree with min. GPA 3.25/4.0
- Research experience or publications highly desirable
- Bachelor’s degree with GPA ≥ 3.5/4.0
- Strong research potential
- GRE General Test: Minimum Quantitative score of 150
- All sections (Verbal, Quant, Analytical) must be taken at an official test center
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum 91
- IELTS Academic: Minimum 6.5
- EmSAT English: Minimum 1550
📌 Exemptions apply for native speakers or graduates from English-medium universities.
Applicants must prepare:
- Bachelor’s & Master’s degree certificates and transcripts
- GRE score report & English proficiency test results
- Equivalency certificate (for degrees earned outside UAE)
- Updated CV/resume
- Passport copy + photo (and UAE visa if applicable)
- Statement of Purpose (500–1,000 words)
- Research Proposal (PhD applicants only)
- Two recommendation letters
- UAE family book (for nationals only)
- Visit Khalifa University’s official portal.
- Create an applicant account and select the PhD program.
- Upload all required documents.
- Wait for admissions committee review.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.
- Receive final decision and scholarship offer.
⚠️ Note: Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
The announcement of the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026 has sparked excitement among aspiring researchers worldwide. On LinkedIn, young academics praised the UAE’s commitment to funding research, while education forums buzzed with discussions about the high stipend and career opportunities in Abu Dhabi.
International education analysts also point out that the UAE is rapidly becoming a global hub for higher education, competing with destinations like the UK, US, and Australia — but with lower financial barriers due to scholarships like this one.
🗓️ The deadline for the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026 is September 15, 2025.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit early to allow time for document verification and interview scheduling.
- Ranked among the top research universities in the Middle East
- Access to state-of-the-art labs and facilities
- Strategic partnerships with global industries
- Opportunities for teaching and research internships
- A safe, multicultural environment in Abu Dhabi
For motivated scholars, this scholarship is not just funding — it’s a launchpad for global careers in research, technology, and innovation.
The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026 is one of the most attractive doctoral opportunities worldwide. With full funding, stipends, research support, and world-class mentorship, it empowers students to pursue ambitious projects in engineering, computing, and health sciences.
If you dream of advancing your career in a research-driven environment while living in one of the safest, most innovative countries, this is your chance.
👉 Apply before September 15, 2025 and take the first step toward becoming part of the UAE’s growing scientific community.