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Study Abroad in Abu Dhabi

College Study Abroad

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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.

EXPLORE ABU DHABI PROGRAMS

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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 
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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
CIEE students orientation in Abu Dhabi

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

Abu Dhabi
  • Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Coming Spring 2027
  • Study Program

...for 1, 2, or 3 term blocks!

Abu Dhabi
  • Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Coming Spring 2027
  • Study Program
  • Part-Time Internship
Abu Dhabi
  • Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Coming Spring 2027
  • Study Program
  • Part-Time Internship

Pocket Guide to Abu Dhabi

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

Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants

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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:

  1. Search for and apply to your dream program
  2. Review all available funding opportunities
  3. Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
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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. 

View Our Scholarships & Grants

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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.

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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