Universities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are experiencing a surge in applications from international students due to growing uncertainty surrounding U.S. student visa policies. Institutions in the UAE are positioning themselves as appealing alternatives for students reconsidering their plans to enroll in the United States. This shift is attributed to the UAE’s efficient visa process, attractive scholarship opportunities, and flexible campus transfer policies.

As part of its efforts to attract more students, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) has introduced an Excellence Scholarship for the September 2025 intake. This scholarship offers full tuition cost waivers for top-performing postgraduate applicants. Camille Assouline, Head of Communications at SUAD, remarked to Gulf News that the scholarship aims to support exceptional postgraduate students by providing up to 100 percent off tuition fees for those from globally ranked universities. Selection will be based on academic performance and IELTS scores.

Gulf Medical University (GMU) is also enhancing its international outreach by organizing webinars, digital counseling sessions, and campus tours to assist students and their families in making informed choices. Additionally, Heriot-Watt University’s Go Global program offers flexibility for international students. They can begin their studies in Dubai and later transfer to campuses in Edinburgh or Kuala Lumpur. Professor Dame Heather McGregor, the provost and vice principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai, noted that students are free to transition between campuses if they wish to continue their education in the UK.

The UAE is emerging as a preferred destination for higher education, particularly for students affected by global policy changes. This trend is supported by the country’s robust infrastructure, increasing academic recognition, and welcoming policies that attract talent from around the world.