Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) announced the opening of applications for the third cohort of the Hamdan bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme for the 2026-27 academic year. Eligible Emirati students can apply through the ‘Emirati’ section on the Dubai Now app. Applications close on 30th June 2026.

The scholarship programme, launched in 2024 under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aims to support exceptional Emirati students. It provides access to leading global universities and prepares them to become Dubai’s future leaders.

Aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), Dubai Social Agenda 33, and the Education 33 strategy, the programme reflects the vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to invest in people for sustainable development.

The initiative combines academic excellence with leadership, specialised, and entrepreneurial skill development. It encourages Emirati talent to pursue strategic fields that support Dubai’s future growth.

With a total budget of AED 1.1 billion, the programme offers 100 fully funded scholarships annually. Outstanding Emirati graduates from public and private schools across various curricula are eligible. They can pursue bachelor’s degrees in future-focused fields that contribute to Dubai’s strategic sectors and leadership pipeline.

The first two cohorts have attracted strong interest. Many students are now studying at leading universities worldwide. Around 70% of current recipients are enrolled in universities ranked among the top 100 globally. Students specialise in fields including computer science, artificial intelligence, digital technologies, business, finance, medicine, law, and social sciences.

Dr. Amna Almaazmi, CEO of Growth and Human Development at KHDA, said the programme builds future leadership capabilities. “It equips outstanding Emirati students with knowledge, global exposure, and leadership skills while supporting them to achieve their ambitions,” she added.

The scholarship is open to Emirati students who completed high school in 2023-24, 2024-25, or 2025-26. Applicants must hold a Dubai family book, have no other scholarships, and have an offer from an eligible university. Recipients must commit to full-time study in the host country.

KHDA encourages Emirati students and families in Dubai to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to develop the next generation of national leaders.

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