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. Admire the breathtaking architecture of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, explore world-class cultural institutions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, or spend your afternoons kayaking through mangroves and evenings enjoying global cuisine along the Corniche. Known for its leadership in sustainability, innovation, and economic development, Abu Dhabi offers a unique blend of modern ambition and deep-rooted traditions. With year-round sunshine, a highly international population, and endless opportunities for exploration, Abu Dhabi study abroad provides an exciting gateway to the Middle East and beyond.
While abroad, choose from a variety of study abroad programs in Abu Dhabi designed to support your academic goals across subjects like business, the arts, science, engineering, technology, and more. Beyond the classroom, you can also complete a full- or part-time internship in industries such as finance, information technology, hospitality, architecture, marketing, and STEM, gaining valuable international work experience in one of the world's fastest-growing global hubs. By combining academics with hands-on learning, Abu Dhabi study abroad gives you the opportunity to build career-ready skills while experiencing the innovation, diversity, and cultural richness that define life in the UAE.
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
Academics in Abu Dhabi
CIEE Abu Dhabi
Explore the capital of the United Arab Emirates at CIEE Abu Dhabi, where you'll be situated in the heart of the city to explore Middle Eastern culture and contemporary urban life.
Arizona State University (ASU).
Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
Internships in Abu Dhabi
Depending on your program of study and availability, you may be able to participate in an international internship while studying abroad in Abu Dhabi. As a global business hub, Abu Dhabi offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities across finance, energy, tourism, healthcare, and technology. Multinational corporations and fast-growing startups alike provide hands-on experience in an innovative, rapidly evolving economy. You may find opportunities in industries such as:
- Architecture + Construction
- Business Management + Administration
- Finance
- Hospitality + Tourism
- Information Technology
- Marketing, Sales + Service
- Science, Technology, Engineering + Mathematics
- Transportation, Distribution + Logistics
Community Impact Initiative in Abu Dhabi
CIEE’s Community Impact Initiative invites you to connect more deeply with Abu Dhabi by becoming an active member of its community. You’ll work alongside local organizations on projects that reflect real, on-the-ground needs, building relationships, gaining cultural insight, and contributing to meaningful, lasting impact. Your experience may span key focus areas like Food Security, Community Development + Public Health, and Youth Development + Education initiatives.
In Abu Dhabi, your service work may include:
- Supporting the Emirates Foundation, a national organization that drives social impact and public-private programs across the UAE
- Participating in community service, education, environmental initiatives, healthcare, and social-impact opportunities across the UAE through Volunteers.ae
Abu Dhabi Study Abroad Programs
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- Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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- Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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- Full-Time Internship
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Frequently Asked Questions
Abu Dhabi gives students the opportunity to study in one of the world's most globally connected cities. As the capital of the United Arab Emirates, it has become a major center for business, innovation, technology, sustainability, and international collaboration. Students can experience rich cultural immersion in a modern city all while gaining a valuable global perspective.
The city is especially appealing for students interested in business, engineering, technology, science, sustainability, international affairs, and other global fields of work. Through coursework, internships, and cultural immersion, students can develop professional skills, expand their international perspective, and gain experience that is valuable in today's increasingly interconnected workforce.
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 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.
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.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
As a major global hub, Abu Dhabi's culture uniquely blends local tradition with rich global influence that make the city's atmosphere feel welcoming to international students. Family, community, and hospitality are important parts of the culture, and it's common to see friends and families gathering in destinations all throughout the city.
Abu Dhabi is a very important cultural, economic, and political center in the region, making it a unique and valuable study abroad destination. Students will have plenty of opportunities to experience modern life in the Middle East while gaining a valuable global perspective into local culture and daily life.
Yes! Students generally find it easy to navigate the areas where they spend most of their time. Popular neighborhoods, restaurants, shopping districts, waterfront areas, and cultural attractions are well-connected, making it easy for students to become familiar with the city and explore its many attractions by foot.
For longer distances, students can use the city's public bus system and other available transportation options. CIEE Abu Dhabi is located in the heart of the city, giving students quick access to public services, restaurants, markets, campuses, cultural attractions and more.
No, you don’t need to know Arabic to study abroad in Abu Dhabi. CIEE courses are offered in English, and English is commonly used in academic settings and major urban areas.
That said, learning some basic Arabic phrases can make daily life easier and help you connect more with the loc
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.
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Abu Dhabi Study Abroad Blog
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How to Study Abroad in Abu Dhabi
Step #1: Select a Timeframe
CIEE offers a variety of ways to study abroad in Abu Dhabi, including semester-long sessions, summer study abroad, and J-term, with program lengths ranging from four weeks to 18 weeks. With flexible options, it’s important to select a timeframe that makes sense with your personal and academic schedule.
Step #2: Choose a Program You Love
After determining your timeframe, find a program that meets your academic and career goals. Students can choose from subjects like mathematics, business, and language courses, along with classes focused on local culture, history, and more. Choosing a program you’re passionate about will help you make the most of your Abu Dhabi study abroad experience!
Step #3: Verify Your Eligibility
Make sure you’re eligible to participate in CIEE’s Abu Dhabi study abroad offerings. Every program has its own requirements, but typically include a minimum GPA and often other course and credit requirements, too.
Step #4: Create Your Budget
While studying abroad in Abu Dhabi can be an affordable study abroad option, it’s always a smart idea to budget for other expenses, like incurred travel expenses, gifts, and food.
CIEE also offers millions in study abroad scholarships and grants each year based on several factors including financial need, academic merit, and other considerations, to allow you to make a study abroad dream a reality!
Step #5: Apply!
Now that you’ve found your program, you’re ready to apply! The application process is quite simple, but if you have any questions, we’re always here to help. Just contact us!
Safety at CIEE Abu Dhabi
At CIEE, your health, safety, and well-being are always a top priority, so you can focus on making the most of your study abroad experience. From trained on-site staff who are local community experts to 24/7 support for students and families at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839), we’re here whenever you need us. Every program location is carefully reviewed for health, safety, and academic quality. Our global teams continuously monitor local conditions and stay connected with trusted partners, government officials, and U.S. embassies around the world. With guidance, resources, and real people ready to help every step of the way, you can feel confident living, learning, and exploring abroad with CIEE.
Student Housing in Abu Dhabi
CIEE Abu Dhabi offers a variety of housing options for you to choose from. Our Abu Dhabi housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, and restaurants. Available housing options vary by program.
CIEE Abu Dhabi Staff
Nancy El Sobkey
Center Director