Open Campus Block

Application Deadline

November 1, 2025

Apply Now

Tentative Dates

Feb 16 - Mar 28, 2026

6 weeks

Costs

$7,450 See Full Breakdown

Credit

6 - 7 per Block semester hours

9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

November 1, 2025

Apply Now

Tentative Dates

Mar 30 - May 9, 2026

6 weeks

Costs

$7,450 See Full Breakdown

Credit

6 - 7 per Block semester hours

9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

November 1, 2025

Apply Now

Tentative Dates

Jan 5 - Mar 28, 2026

12 weeks

Costs

$14,900 See Full Breakdown

Credit

6 - 7 per Block semester hours

9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

November 1, 2025

Apply Now

Tentative Dates

Feb 16 - May 9, 2026

12 weeks

Costs

$14,900 See Full Breakdown

Credit

6 - 7 per Block semester hours

9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

November 1, 2025

Apply Now

Learn more about scholarships

Your Open Campus Block program in Abu Dhabi lasts 6 or 12 weeks and is designed to be completely customizable. You will enroll in CIEE courses and online courses taught through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular activities while immersing yourself in Emirati culture. Live and learn in Abu Dhabi!

Unique Experiences

Visit the Burj Khalifa

the tallest building in the world

Explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi

which houses a rich collection of local and regional historical artifacts

Tour the Abrahamic Family House

that houses the worshipping houses for the three monotheistic religions

Your Destination

Abu Dhabi is the United Arab Emirates’ dynamic capital, offering a bold blend of tradition and innovation for students of all disciplines. Spend 6 or 12 weeks exploring the city’s futuristic architecture, emerging tech and business hubs, and cultural landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Whether you’re studying business, science, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Abu Dhabi is the perfect place to study abroad.

Program Highlights

Unmatched Flexibility: Spend one or two consecutive 6-week blocks in the same host city or travel between cities for a comparative cultural experience.
Academic Courses: Choose from CIEE 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.
Academic Projects: Enroll in an optional for-credit academic project that aligns with your goals, qualifications, resume, and availability of placements.

Excursions & Activities

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Abu Dhabi will open doors for you to explore United Arab Emirates’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.

Samples of past excursions and activities:

Experience the thrill of dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and a traditional Bedouin camp experience on a desert safari
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

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and 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

From CIEE

EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: ABU DHABI

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

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

From CIEE

5 Reasons to Study Abroad in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Seeking a distinctive abroad experience? Look no further than Abu Dhabi, one of the most vibrant cities in the world. The capital of the United Arab Emirates promises an unparalleled... keep reading

Housing & Meals

Housing

CIEE Abu Dhabi ensures 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 a double occupancy room with access to a shared kitchen and bathroom.

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 in this program. Students can eat out in many of the restaurants and cafés across the city. 

Meals

Falafel

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.

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.

Eligibility

On-Program Requirements

Academic Culture

Each CIEE course is a full semester in content, covered in a six-week block, so the pace is accelerated, and the workload is demanding. Courses are designed to follow U.S. academic culture and standards. The class environment typically features a combination of traditional lectures, group work, and discussions with co-curricular excursions and activities. Heavy emphasis is placed on student participation. To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel out of Abu Dhabi when classes are in session and plan trips for the long weekends in between blocks.

ASU Courses: Most ASU online courses are asynchronous. You may find yourself in classes with students from ASU, other American universities, and students from around the world. You’ll receive direct and individualized support from faculty, 100% online. Most ASU online courses are asynchronous, meaning there are no set log-in times, but make sure to verify this before the add/drop deadline in case you want to make a change.

Class Format

CIEE classes are for CIEE students only. Classes are small, typically with up to 15 students per class, and emphasize communication and work in small groups. Classes are scheduled Monday-Friday and meet either three or four times per week, and attendance is strictly enforced both for classes and required co-curricular excursions. Students should expect an average of two hours of preparation required for each hour in class. Instruction is supported and augmented online by our learning management system, Canvas. 

ASU online courses meet in “sessions” that are 7.5-weeks long in the semester, and all work must be completed within the session dates regardless of when your other CIEE courses begin or end.

Grading

The U.S. grading scale of A-F is used. Students are graded on the basis of attendance, class engagement, homework, project work, presentations, midterm and final examinations, and other assignments as determined by the instructor. Learning outcomes assessment is continuous through personal reflections, evaluation feedback, self-assessment, and requirements as set out in course syllabi.

ASU grading follows the same format and standards as ASU courses taught in-person. “Pass/fail” or “Audit” is not allowed for CIEE students.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

Course Information

Courses are listed below by block and track; course list subject to change. Courses are in English unless otherwise noted. “GI” denotes courses that are offered at multiple CIEE locations. 
Use the Course Comparison Tools to compare classes offered across all Open Campus Block programs for each block: 
- Spring 2026 Course Comparison Tool
Students studying for three blocks who wish to complete a lab course will be required to opt out of one course to remain within the program credit range.

Academic Projects

Academic Projects will be offered onsite or remotely, dependent on availability and in compliance with local health and safety regulations.
Academic Project placement will be designed based on the student’s project learning goals, qualifications, resume, and availability of placements in location or within the Open Campus Block network either in-person or remotely. The process is highly individualized and goal-oriented. Students enrolled in an Academic Project will receive additional academic support that informs and enhances the placement experience. 
Students applying for an Academic Project must submit additional materials during the course selection process.

Spring 2026 CIEE Courses

Arizona State University Courses

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 Block I 2026 6 weeks	November 1, 2025	Start Date January 5, 2026 ^*	End Date February 14, 2026 ^*	Fees & Housing $7,450
Program Spring Block II 2026 6 weeks	November 1, 2025	Start Date February 16, 2026 ^*	End Date March 28, 2026 ^*	Fees & Housing $7,450
Program Spring Block III 2026 6 weeks	November 1, 2025	Start Date March 30, 2026 ^*	End Date May 9, 2026 ^*	Fees & Housing $7,450
Program Spring Blocks I, II 2026 12 weeks	November 1, 2025	Start Date January 5, 2026 ^*	End Date March 28, 2026 ^*	Fees & Housing $14,900
Program Spring Blocks II, III 2026 12 weeks	November 1, 2025	Start Date February 16, 2026 ^*	End Date May 9, 2026 ^*	Fees & Housing $14,900

^*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.

Participation Confirmation	$300 ^*
Educational Costs	$4,556 ^**
Housing	$2,400 ^***
Insurance	$194
Total Fees	$7,450

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.

^*non-refundable fee

^**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

^***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

Program Fees

Participation Confirmation	$300 ^*
Educational Costs	$4,556 ^**
Housing	$2,400 ^***
Insurance	$194
Total Fees	$7,450

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.

^*non-refundable fee

^**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

^***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

Program Fees

Participation Confirmation	$300 ^*
Educational Costs	$4,556 ^**
Housing	$2,400 ^***
Insurance	$194
Total Fees	$7,450

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.

^*non-refundable fee

^**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

^***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

Program Fees

Participation Confirmation	$300 ^*
Educational Costs	$9,606 ^**
Housing	$4,800 ^***
Insurance	$194
Total Fees	$14,900

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.

^*non-refundable fee

^**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

^***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

Program Fees

Participation Confirmation	$300 ^*
Educational Costs	$9,606 ^**
Housing	$4,800 ^***
Insurance	$194
Total Fees	$14,900

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.