Abu Dhabi University (ADU), founded in 2003, is one of the UAE’s leading private universities with campuses in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain. Ranked among the world’s top institutions, ADU offers accredited, English-taught programs to a diverse student body representing 100+ nationalities.
Abu Dhabi University (ADU) is consistently recognized among the world’s top universities for academic excellence, employability, and subject strengths in business, engineering, law, and health sciences.
Key Highlights:
| Ranking Body / Subject | Global Rank | UAE Standing |
| QS World University Rankings 2026 | #391 | 5th in UAE |
| THE World University Rankings 2025 | #191 | Top 200 worldwide |
| THE Business & Economics 2025 | #62 | 1st in UAE |
| THE Engineering 2025 | 301–400 | Among UAE leaders |
| QS Business & Management 2025 | 151–200 | 1st in UAE |
Abu Dhabi University (ADU) offers a diverse portfolio of internationally recognized programs designed to prepare students for success in today’s competitive world. With accreditations from top global bodies and strong industry links, ADU’s degrees combine academic rigor, practical skills, and career relevance.
| Program Level | Fields of Study | Key Accreditations / Highlights |
| Undergraduate | - Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Computer, Electrical, Cybersecurity) - Business (Finance, Management, Marketing, Accounting) - Arts & Social Sciences (International Relations, Psychology, Mass Communication, Education) - Law (Arabic & English tracks) - Health Sciences (Public Health, Biomedical Sciences, Environmental Health & Safety) | - ABET for Engineering - AACSB & EQUIS for Business - RIBA validation for Architecture - CAA (UAE Ministry of Education) |
| Postgraduate | - MBA - Engineering Masters (AI, Cybersecurity, Project Management, Engineering Management) - Public Health - Information Technology - Education Leadership - Clinical Psychology - Law (Arabic & English) | - APHEA for Public Health - AACSB & EQUIS for Business programs - Global recognition of MBA |
| Doctoral | - PhD in Education - PhD in Engineering Management - PhD in Intelligent Systems Engineering - PhD in Law | - Research-driven programs - Designed to meet global and regional academic & industry needs |
| Language of Instruction | - Most programs taught in English - Select Law programs in Arabic | - Accessibility for international students |
Abu Dhabi University welcomes students from the UAE and over 100 nationalities, with clear entry criteria for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Admission is based on academic qualifications, proof of English proficiency, and submission of required documents, with multiple intakes available across Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer semesters.
Abu Dhabi University provides competitive tuition rates along with a wide range of scholarships and financial support to ensure higher education remains accessible for talented students from the UAE and around the world.
| Program Level | Approximate Annual Tuition (AED) | Approximate in GBP* |
| Undergraduate | AED 47,000 – AED 64,500 | GBP 9,600 – GBP 13,200 |
| Postgraduate (Master’s) | AED 44,000 – AED 88,200 | GBP 9,000 – GBP 18,000 |
*GBP values are based on average 2025 exchange rates; actual costs depend on currency fluctuations.
Abu Dhabi University offers a wide range of scholarships to support talented students and make higher education more accessible. These scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and special achievements while fostering diversity among the student community.
Main Scholarship Options
Payment Flexibility
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Abu Dhabi University maintains a moderately selective admissions policy, ensuring access for qualified students while upholding strong academic standards. Applicants who meet the required criteria — including a recognized high school diploma or bachelor’s degree, proof of English language proficiency, and submission of attested documents — have strong chances of admission.
With students from over 100 nationalities, ADU reflects a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, making it an attractive choice for international students seeking quality education in the UAE.
Abu Dhabi University (ADU) is one of the UAE’s leading higher education institutions, known internationally for its strong academic programs, high-quality teaching, and global outlook. It has earned accreditations from respected international bodies, such as ABET for engineering programs, and is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education. The university is also recognized for its diverse student community, modern campuses, and research contributions. With a focus on employability, innovation, and international collaboration, ADU is ranked among the top universities in the region and continues to attract students from across the world.
Abu Dhabi University (ADU) publishes its tuition fees for international undergraduate and postgraduate students under its “Financials / Tuition Fees” section. Fees vary by faculty, programme and course classification. Note that tuition typically does not include books, lab supplies, accommodation or other living-costs, and ADU reserves the right to adjust its rates. Below is a representative breakdown based on official figures for international students in recent years.
| Level of Study | Typical Annual Tuition Fee (AED) |
| Undergraduate programs | 27,600 – 45,400 |
| Postgraduate programs | 39,600 – 66,100 |
Abu Dhabi University offers a broad range of English-taught programs:
Abu Dhabi University has established itself as a globally recognized institution.
The admission requirements at Abu Dhabi University depend on the level of study:
Tuition fees for undergraduate programs at Abu Dhabi University depend on the college and major. Fees are usually calculated per credit hour, with programs in Arts, Education, and Social Sciences costing less than fields such as Engineering, Business, or Health Sciences. On average, international undergraduate students pay between AED 27,600 and AED 45,400 annually. These fees cover tuition only. Additional costs may include registration charges, student service fees, textbooks, and VAT. Since rates can change, applicants are encouraged to review the latest fee schedules before applying to ensure accurate planning.
Postgraduate tuition at Abu Dhabi University also follows a per credit-hour system and varies by program and faculty. Master’s programs in disciplines such as Business, Engineering, and Education have different fee structures, with thesis or research-based courses sometimes costing more. For international postgraduate students, annual tuition fees range from AED 39,600 to AED 66,100. These figures generally include tuition only and exclude course materials, lab fees, VAT, and living costs. Financial planning is important, and students are encouraged to explore scholarships and assistantship opportunities offered by the university to help offset costs.
Abu Dhabi University provides extensive opportunities for students to engage in research across a variety of disciplines. Both undergraduate and postgraduate students can participate in research projects, thesis work, and faculty-led initiatives. The university’s Office of Research and Sponsored Programs supports students and faculty with grant applications, funding, and collaborative partnerships. Research at ADU focuses on areas of strategic importance, such as engineering, business, health sciences, and social sciences. By participating, students gain valuable experience in applied research, contribute to innovation, and strengthen their academic and professional profiles for future careers.
