Arts + Sciences at Khalifa University
Unique Experiences
Visit architectural marvel Burj Khalifa
the tallest building in the world, standing at 163 floors
Discover the history of Abu Dhabi
at Qasr Al Hosn, a historic fort and cultural landmark
Explore the National Aquarium in Al Qana
the largest aquarium in the Middle East
Your Destination
Abu Dhabi is the United Arab Emirate’s dynamic and forward-thinking capital, renowned for its groundbreaking innovations, rich cultural heritage, and cutting-edge advancements in science and technology. The city seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering stunning mosques, world-class museums, bustling souks, and futuristic skyscrapers. Whether you are studying the arts or sciences, Abu Dhabi provides top-tier academics, pioneering research opportunities, and a thriving business and tech industry. With its stunning waterfront, diverse culinary scene, and fast-paced urban development, Abu Dhabi is the perfect place to study abroad while immersing yourself in one of the world’s most innovative and globally connected cities.
Program Highlights
- Academic Courses: Choose from host institution courses and online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.
- Immersive Experiences: Participate in activities, excursions, study tours, and more that showcase your host city's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
- Cultural Projects: Volunteer with members of the local community, join university clubs to socialize with your peers, and attend local workshops and events to get to know your host city.
Excursions & Activities
CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Abu Dhabi will open doors for you to explore United Arab Emirates’ rich diversity, language, culture, history, contemporary trends, vibrant art, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.
Samples of excursions and activities:
- Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi and view its rich collection of historical artifacts to fully grasp the richness of the history, culture and traditions of the Arabian Gulf and Middle East
- Visit the Zayed National Museum, which depicts the history of the UAE prior to discovering oil in the 1940s
- Visit the newly built Abrahamic Family House, home to the worshipping houses for the three monotheistic religions
Please note: Activities are based on past programs and are subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Program Blogs
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If “study abroad” had a glow-up, it would look like Abu Dhabi. The United Arab Emirates’ mix of city life, desert adventures, and cutting-edge innovation makes it one of the... keep reading
EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: ABU DHABI
EAT A dish deeply rooted in Emirati tradition, Al Harees is a must-try while in Abu Dhabi. Made from wheat, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a pinch of salt... keep reading
Housing & Meals
Housing
CIEE Abu Dhabi offers housing options to ensure you're comfortable in your home away from home. All housing has convenient access to plenty of shopping, supermarkets, restaurants, and public transportation.
- Standard Housing: Includes double occupancy housing either in Khalifa University’s residential facilities or in apartments around the city.
A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive. Non-standard housing options require an additional fee that can be found in the program Dates and Fees.
Meals
Meals are not included.
Academics
CIEE Abu Dhabi: Study in Abu Dhabi, a global city where tradition and innovation thrive side by side. From futuristic skyscrapers to bustling souks and serene desert landscapes, experience the unique blend of heritage and progress that defines this Middle Eastern hub.
Khalifa University (KU): Khalifa University is a comprehensive research-intensive university with three colleges, research institutes and centers, and a number of departments covering a broad range of disciplines in science, engineering, and medicine, with classes taught in English. KU’s campuses in the city of Abu Dhabi are fully equipped to facilitate high quality academic and research activities while also supporting an active student 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.
Course Information
Khalifa University (KU)
List of Sample KU Courses:
- MATH 421 Econometrics
- MATH 423 Financial Risk Analysis
- LTCM224 Digital Composition
- LTCM221 Intercultural Communication
- CHEM 423 Introduction To Medicinal Chemistry
- CHEM360 Microbiology And Biocorrosion For Engineers
- CHEM311 Biochemistry
- BUSS 395 Managerial Finance
- BUSS 456 Investments & Portfolio Management
- BUSS204 Introduction To Organizational Management
- BIOL 411 Immunology
- BIOL 221 Applied Microbiology
- EPSS 411 Atmospheric, Ocean And Climate Dynamics
- HUMA214 Environment And Society
- HUMA211 Islam And Modernity
- HUMA277 Introduction To Logical Reasoning
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.
Scholarships & Grants
CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.
Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:
- Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
- Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
- Trailblazer Grant
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Spring 2027 18 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
CIEE iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Kwasi Gyasi-Gyamerah. Ph.D.
Regional Director of Operations for Africa and the Middle East
Born and raised in Ghana, Kwasi has a PhD from the College of Education of the University of Ghana.
Get Started
1
2
Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
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Contact Us
Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
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