Are you aiming to specialize in Artificial Intelligence at a world-class institution in the heart of the Middle East? Excellent news! The Muhammad Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in Dubai is now accepting applications for its fully funded scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year. This prestigious scholarship program is open to international students from all countries, offering them a chance to pursue master’s and PhD degrees in AI-related fields with all expenses covered.
MBZUAI is the first research-based university globally dedicated exclusively to artificial intelligence. Located in Masdar City, Dubai, the university offers cutting-edge graduate programs, world-renowned faculty, and a modern campus environment designed to foster innovation. The university ranks among the most forward-looking institutions in the region, with a strong focus on machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing making it a global hub for AI education and research.
In this article, we’ll explore the key features, benefits, eligibility requirements, and application process for the Muhammad Bin Zayed University Scholarship 2025-2026.
Scholarship Summary
Host Institution: Muhammad Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI)
Location: Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Degree Levels: Master’s (MSc) and PhD
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Application Deadlines:
Regular Deadline: January 15, 2026
Late Deadline: May 31, 2026
Available Programs
MBZUAI offers highly specialized graduate programs in the following areas:
Master’s Programs:
MSc in Machine Learning
MSc in Computer Vision
MSc in Natural Language Processing
PhD Programs:
PhD in Machine Learning
PhD in Computer Vision
PhD in Natural Language Processing
These programs are designed to meet global industry demands and prepare students for careers in academia, applied AI, and cutting-edge R&D fields.
Scholarship Coverage
All admitted students to MBZUAI automatically receive a fully funded scholarship that includes:
100% Tuition Fee Waiver: No application or course fees
Monthly Stipend:
Master’s: AED 8,000/month
PhD: AED 10,000 to AED 12,000/month
Accommodation: Free, private on-campus housing in Masdar City
Meals: Subsidized meal plans and dining facilities available on campus
Medical Insurance: Full coverage for international students
Visa and Admin Costs: Visa processing and renewal fees covered
Travel Support: Mobilization and demobilization flights (for international students)
Conference Sponsorship: Funding to attend international research conferences
Students are expected to maintain good academic standing and adhere to the university’s code of conduct to retain the scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria
General Requirements:
Open to applicants from all nationalities
Strong academic record and commitment to AI research and innovation
Language Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90
IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.5
English test requirement can be waived if the applicant’s degree was completed in English and in an English-speaking country
Master’s Program Eligibility:
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Math, Physics, or a related field
CGPA of 3.2/4.0 or equivalent
Valid transcripts and certificates
Optional: GRE score to strengthen the application
PhD Program Eligibility:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field from an accredited university
CGPA of 3.2/4.0 or equivalent
Statement of research interest (500–1,000 words)
Optional: GRE General Test score
PhD applicants must submit a research proposal (3–5 pages)
Required Application Documents
All documents must be submitted in English and include:
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
Equivalency certificate (for degrees earned outside the UAE)
Statement of Purpose (500–1,000 words)
Research Proposal (PhD only)
English language proficiency scores (TOEFL/IELTS)
Valid passport and UAE visa copy (if applicable)
CV or resume
Passport-sized photo
GRE scores (optional but recommended for PhD)
How to Apply for MBZUAI Scholarship 2026?
Follow these steps to apply:
Create an Account on the MBZUAI admissions portal: Apply Here
Choose Your Program (Master’s or PhD in ML, CV, NLP)
Complete Your Profile with academic background, documents, and test scores
Upload Required Documents as listed above
Submit Your Application before the deadline
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an online interview. Final admissions decisions will follow thereafter.
Why Choose MBZUAI?
First AI-focused graduate university in the world
Located in Masdar City, a global clean-tech and innovation hub
Collaboration opportunities with top tech companies like IBM, Google, and Microsoft
Highly specialized curriculum with hands-on research exposure
Personalized academic and career support
On-campus AI research labs, innovation spaces, and startup accelerators
Official Website
To explore the program details, application process, and FAQs, visit the official university website:
https://mbzuai.ac.ae
If you are passionate about shaping the future of Artificial Intelligence and want to study in one of the most dynamic innovation hubs in the world, then the Muhammad Bin Zayed University Scholarship 2026 is your gateway to excellence.