Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Open Campus Block

Study Program

Study here for a full term, or visit up to 2 additional locations within the same term. Use our program builder tool to discover your options!

Design Your Program

Tentative Dates

-

6 weeks

Costs

Credit

6 - 7 per Block semester hours

9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

6 weeks

Costs

Credit

6 - 7 per Block semester hours

9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

6 weeks

Costs

Credit

6 - 7 per Block semester hours

9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

12 weeks

Costs

Credit

6 - 7 per Block semester hours

9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

12 weeks

Costs

Credit

6 - 7 per Block semester hours

9 - 10.5 per Block quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

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

Experience
  • Abu Dhabi

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. 

abu dhabi skyline

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. 
abu-dhabi-qasr-al-hosn-corridor

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
Academics

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. 

Courses

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: 
  • 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.   

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

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.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

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 Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $7,450
Program Spring Block II 2026 6 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $7,450
Program Spring Block III 2026 6 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $7,450
Program Spring Blocks I, II 2026 12 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $14,900
Program Spring Blocks II, III 2026 12 weeks Start Date * End Date * 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.

See Scholarships

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

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.

See Scholarships

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

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.

See Scholarships

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

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 $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.

See Scholarships

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

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 $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.

See Scholarships

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.

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

Staff

Our Staff

Nancy ElSobkey

Center Director

Nancy is a senior educator with more than two decades of experience in teaching, program development, and leadership. Her career includes work in international universities including American and Australian universities...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

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.

3

Contact Us

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info