Study Abroad in Abu Dhabi
College Study Abroad
Explore Abu Dhabi with CIEE
Experience a city where sleek skyscrapers meet centuries-old souks when you study abroad in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Take in the breathtaking beauty of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, explore cutting-edge museums like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, or spend your afternoons kayaking through mangroves and evenings tasting global cuisine on the Corniche. This forward-thinking city is also a hub for sustainability, technology, and the arts – offering a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your studies. With top-tier universities, sunshine year-round, and a truly international community, Abu Dhabi study abroad opens the door to a future-focused experience rooted in rich tradition.
While abroad, students may complete a full- or part-time internship in Abu Dhabi, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including tourism, real estate, oil/gas, logistics/transport, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.
Top Activities in Abu Dhabi with CIEE
Every CIEE Abu Dhabi study abroad and international internship program includes frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Abu Dhabi, excursions may include:
- Visiting the heritage village of Al Ain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can explore ancient forts, traditional markets, and beautiful gardens while learning about life in the desert
- Participating in a cultural cooking class, where you’ll learn how to prepare traditional Emirati dishes like machboos and luqaimat, offering a hands-on way to connect with local flavors and customs
- Taking a thrilling desert safari, riding across the golden dunes in a 4x4, and enjoy camel rides, traditional Bedouin camp experiences, and a stunning sunset over the desert horizon
Internships & Volunteering in Abu Dhabi
Students can add valuable international work experience to their resume by interning at tourism agencies, real estate companies, oil/gas businesses, and logistics/transport organizations.
Abu Dhabi Study Abroad Programs
- Study Program
...for 1, 2, or 3 term blocks!
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Study Program
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Study Program
- Full-Time Internship
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Full-Time Internship
- Study Program
- Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Study Program
Currency
UAE dirham
Spoken Languages in Abu Dhabi
Arabic, English, Urdu, Malayalam, and Hindi
Available Transportation
Bikes, bus, taxi, Uber
Famous Local
Hazzaa Al Mansoori – the first Emirati astronaut and the first person from the UAE to go to space
Climate
Humid summers and comfortable winters
Did You Know?
It’s home to Yas Island, one of the top tourism and entertainment locations in the world
Airport
Zayed International Airport (AUH)
Social Norms
Avoid PDAs, and only eat with your right hand (the left is considered dirty!)
What to Pack
Modest clothing – you’ll want to keep your shoulders and knees covered
CIEE Abu Dhabi on Instagram
Frequently Asked Questions
Studying in Abu Dhabi offers you a blend of top-notch education, a lively multicultural environment, and endless chances to grow personally and professionally. Plus, Abu Dhabi is widely recognized as one of the safest cities in the world, boasting low crime rates and an effective law enforcement presence so you can enjoy your experiences with peace of mind.
The cost of Abu Dhabi study abroad courses can vary, depending on program length and the type of program. You’ll also want to research scholarship and financial aid opportunities to help you manage the financial commitment.
The cost of study abroad in Abu Dhabi varies depending on the program you choose and how long you plan to go for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each of the individual Abu Dhabi college study abroad programs.
For costs not included in the outlined fees, you'll want to consider factors surrounding your journey while abroad.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Abu Dhabi to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
Need-Based Scholarships
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
Merit Scholarships
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
Other Scholarships
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
Abu Dhabi Study Abroad Blog
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