The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has introduced a new AI-enhanced scholarship platform to simplify procedures for Emirati students and higher education institutions across the country. The initiative reduces the number of electronic services from 38 to 18 through a unified digital system that relies on data and artificial intelligence for decision-making. According to the ministry, artificial intelligence tools are already deployed in smart chatbots for customer enquiries, data analysis, case classification and monitoring of service timelines. These enhancements form part of several digital projects scheduled for rollout this year, including an upgraded version of the Edu Hub admissions and registration platform.
New digital services related to scholarships and student support will be added under the programme, the ministry reported on September 22, 2026. The platform focuses on two primary customer journeys, one for students and another for institutions, with the aim of cutting unnecessary steps and improving accessibility. Blockchain-based systems to verify academic qualifications are also in development as officials strengthen digital links with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and other partners involved in record authentication.
Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research figures show that 596 students are currently benefiting from the national scholarship programme, studying at leading universities in 22 countries. The ministry received 2,767 scholarship applications in 2026 and has awarded scholarships to 244 students so far this year. Over the past five years a total of 1,891 Emirati students have graduated through the programme from more than 200 universities in 25 countries.
Dr. Abdulrahman bin Abdulmanan Al Awar, Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, said the scholarship programme targets fields aligned with national priorities and labour market needs, including AI and data science, advanced engineering, renewable energy and health sciences. The ministry has expanded its employer network to 11 national entities, securing 160 specialised scholarship pathways that offer graduates direct employment or training opportunities. Partnerships span key sectors such as energy, aviation and human resources, according to ministry data.
The digital transformation aligns with broader national efforts to prepare talent for future economic requirements, the ministry stated. Customised interfaces on related skills platforms serve students, parents, educational institutions and job seekers by providing visibility into future specialisations and required competencies. More than 1,700 future skills are expected to be developed through integration of education, labour market and employment data.
