Abu Dhabi University
Overview
Abu Dhabi University, was founded in 2003, is one of the UAE’s leading private universities. With campuses in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai, and Al Dhafra, it offers a diverse selection choices of undergraduate and postgraduate programs crafted to serve the needs of professionals and students for various fields like business, engineering, health sciences, law, and arts.
Highlights
Acceptance Rate: 65%
Total International Students: 7,500+ (from 70+ countries)
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Placement Percentage: 90%
Abu Dhabi University Rankings
Some of the recommended and superior universities in the Middle East of high standards, engineering and rated third in Quacquirelli Symonds ranking of university in the world. Some of the programs the university has been undertaking include global executive MBA and masters degree in international business supposedly designed to equip the students to work in the international business environment. Career development is also focused in the school and the facility also provides career connection service connecting students with companies in the global market and the school has a robust alumni network that aids in employment.
Below is the list of various rankings for the given agencies:
| Ranking Agency | Rank |
|---|---|
| QS World University | 601–650 in Top Global Universities |
| Times Higher Education (THE) World University | 401–500 in World University Ranking |
| U-Multirank | High performance in Teaching & Learning, International Orientation |
| Webometrics | Top 10 in UAE, 5,000+ globally |
| UniRank | Ranked among top 20 in UAE |
Abu Dhabi University Intakes
The university offers more than one admission intake each year to give its students more flexibility and breathing time in starting their studies. The main intake at Abu Dhabi University usually begins in September, covering most of the programs like undergraduate and postgraduate programs depending on the student’s choice. A January intake is also easily and widely available for select programs, allowing students another chance to enroll in mid-academic year. Applications are always reviewed on a rolling basis, so it’s best for you to apply early for the preferred intake of your choice and program and take full advantage of amenities.
Abu Dhabi University has two major admission periods. The main one is the September intake that includes most of the undergraduate and postgraduate programs. More than that, there is also a January intake on a limited number of postgraduate courses.
Abu Dhabi University Courses
The university offers over 65 undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programs. It is especially well known in such worlds/areas/balls as engineering, business, health sciences and computer science.
| Program | Duration | Total Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Master’s in business administration (MBA) | 1 Year | AED 189,500 |
| Master’s in Finance | 1 Year | AED 189,500 |
| Master’s in Marketing | 1 Year | AED 189,500 |
| Master’s in Engineering Management | 1 Year | AED 189,500 |
| Master’s in Health Sciences | 1 Year | AED 189,500 |
| Master’s in International Business | 1 Year | AED 189,500 |
| Master’s in Leadership | 1 Year | AED 189,500 |
Cost of Studying at Abu Dhabi University
Studying at Abu Dhabi University comes with an array of fees that have to be paid by foreign students beforehand. The total spending is added by the living cost, food and transport among other general costs. Living expenses, food and transport among other general expenses are an addition to the total spending. Although these costs are subject to change/differ, the university offers information that can assist students to be ready to contribute to paying the college and support options are also available to alleviate the heavy burden on (able to be picked/able to participate) students in the Abu Dhabi University.
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| PG Tuition Fees | AED 189,500 – AED 329,000/program |
| Accommodation | AED 3,000 – AED 6,000/month |
| Food | AED 1,200 – AED 2,000/month |
| Travel | AED 300 – AED 600/month |
| General Expenses | AED 1,000 – AED 1,500/month |
Abu Dhabi University Scholarships
These scholarships can subsequently be in terms of academic excellence, professional accomplishments, or leadership, and in community participation. Indeed, Abu Dhabi University offers various types of scholarships to local and international students as well. Value of scholarship is not fixed and can greatly decrease the tuition fee, thus higher education is more affordable. The university also provides need based support so that deserving students or scholars can study and can afford to study without putting holes in their pockets or experiencing financial obstacles.
Abu Dhabi University offers a variety of scholarships for international students. Some of them are as follows:
| Scholarship | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Excellence Scholarship | Up to AED 45,000 | Awarded to students with outstanding academic performance |
| Global Professional Scholarship | Up to AED 35,000 | For candidates with proven leadership or professional achievements |
| Entrepreneurial Impact Scholarship | Up to AED 35,000 | Awarded to students with creative (with business) drive or business ventures |
| Social Impact Scholarship | Up to AED 35,000 | For students with experience in social work, NGOs, or community impact |
| Alumni Scholarship | Up to AED 20,000 | For ADU graduates applying to another program |
Abu Dhabi University Admission
Applications to Abu Dhabi University are made through university portal to both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Candidates are required to possess a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent to access the Master’s programs, and a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or its equivalent.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 80+
- IELTS – 6.5
- PTE – 60+
Additional Requirements:
People (who are applying for something) are needed/demanded to submit official (related to school and learning) (lists of school grades/written versions of spoken words), work experience (if any), references, a personal statement, a CV or resume, and English language skill scores.
To apply to a bachelors program in university, one must have a high school education degree or equivalent, and a minimum GPA of 3.0 based on a 4.0 scale or 70 percent.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
Additional Requirements:
People (who are applying for something) are expected to submit official (related to school and learning) (lists of school grades/written versions of spoken words), references, a personal statement, a CV or resume, and English language skill scores.
Accommodation at Abu Dhabi University
Abu Dhabi University has a range of accommodation options based on the needs and budgets. Students may stay on-campus at Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, or Dubai campuses, or may live off-campus in nearby residential areas.
On-Campus:
ADU offers fully furnished apartments and shared rooms with monthly rent ranging from AED 3,000 – AED 6,000. The cost typically includes utilities, Wi-Fi, and security. Students also benefit from study spaces, social areas, and recreational facilities. Limited family housing is also available.
Off-Campus:
Students can rent privately in neighborhoods such as Khalifa City, Al Raha, or Dubai Marina (for Dubai campus). Monthly rents average AED 3,500 – AED 6,000, usually excluding utilities. Off-campus housing offers more independence but may involve additional commuting costs, with good transport links to the campuses.
Abu Dhabi University Placements
Abu Dhabi University has a strong employability record, with 90% of graduates employed or in further study within six months of graduation. The university maintains strong links with industry, and many degree programs include integrated internships and opportunities to work with employers. Some of the top recruiters at ADU include:
- Deloitte
- PwC
- KPMG
- Ernst & Young (EY)
- IBM
- Microsoft
- Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)
- Etihad Airways
- Emirates Airlines
Student Essential Services
Abu Dhabi University has a vibrant international academic population and has a wide range of support services that help students adapt to life in the university, excel academically, and ensure wellbeing.
- Student Wellbeing and Disability Support: Mental health services, private counselling, and personalized support for students with disabilities or long-lasting health conditions.
- Students’ Union (SU): It represents student interests and runs more than 50 clubs, (communities of people), and sports teams, as well as a variety of cultural and social events.
- Library & Digital Resources: 24/7 libraries with books, e-useful things/valuable supplies, study spaces, IT support, and (related to school and learning) workshops.
- Sports Facilities: Modern (nice things to have) including gyms, sports (acts of throwing a ball), courts, and recreational areas for fitness and competitions.
- International Student Support: Guidance on visas, healthcare, banking, and cultural (combination of different things together that work as one unit) through the university’s International Student Office.
- Clubs & Societies: A wide range of cultural, (related to school and learning), and recreational groups gives students the chance to explore new interests and build valuable networks
Location of Abu Dhabi University
Frequently Asked Questions
International applicants generally need a relevant high school qualification (for UG) or a bachelor’s degree (for PG), along with proof of English proficiency such as IELTS 6.0–6.5, TOEFL 80+, or equivalent.
Yes, ADU offers merit-based scholarships, alumni awards, and professional achievement scholarships for international students, with values ranging up to AED 45,000 depending on the program.
On-campus housing includes fully furnished apartments and shared rooms, with monthly rents ranging from AED 3,000–6,000. Limited family housing is also available.
Yes, ADU campuses are accessible via public transport and taxi services. Abu Dhabi city center is within 20–30 minutes from most campuses, with easy connectivity to airports and major cities.
No, while ADU has a strong reputation in business and engineering, it also excels in health sciences, law, IT, and applied research fields.
All campuses have 24/7 security, and Abu Dhabi is considered a very safe, student-friendly city with a welcoming international community.
ADU has a growing global alumni network of over 10,000 graduates working in diverse industries worldwide, offering excellent networking and career opportunities.
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