Ajman University has launched the AU Doctoral Student Fellowship, a fully funded program for outstanding Emirati master’s students and graduates who seek careers in higher education. The fellowship is available in artificial intelligence, business administration and law, according to details released by the university. Recipients gain full tuition support for their doctoral studies, an AED 8,000 monthly living stipend paid across 12 months of each academic year and a structured pathway to a faculty appointment at Ajman University after successful completion. The program forms part of efforts to strengthen national participation in academia.
According to the university announcement, the fellowship seeks to cultivate Emirati talent across research, teaching and academic leadership while aiding development of the UAE’s higher education workforce. It aligns with goals of advancing a knowledge-based economy through investment in future scholars and leaders. Applications for the Fall 2026 intake are open now and can be submitted online at apply.ajman.ac.ae or in person at the Sheikh Zayed Center for Conferences and Exhibitions. The sponsorship excludes the doctorate program in dentistry.
Ajman University currently provides 46 accredited programs, including 26 at the undergraduate level, 18 at the graduate level and two at the doctoral level, university figures show. All degrees hold accreditation from the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The institution launched a dedicated PhD in artificial intelligence during March 2026 that is delivered by faculty ranked among the world’s top 0.5 percent and 2 percent of scientists.
The new fellowship extends support specifically to Emirati candidates within the artificial intelligence program as well as the other two fields, building on the university’s established graduate offerings. Ajman University ranks as the leading institution in the UAE for artificial intelligence and data science, according to its own assessment released with the PhD announcement. Such programs contribute to expanded research capacity at the graduate level.
University materials state that the Doctoral Student Fellowship reflects a commitment to developing national talent, advancing research excellence and preparing leaders who drive innovation. The announcement was shared via official social media channels including Instagram and LinkedIn in recent days. Details first appeared through the Emirates News Agency, underscoring the program’s role in higher education workforce planning.
