Abu Dhabi has introduced the Tahnoon bin Zayed Scholarship in AI Excellence, a pioneering initiative to support outstanding undergraduate students at the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI). Starting in the 2025–2026 academic year, the scholarship will benefit around 350 students over six years, offering financial support, global exposure, and resources to pursue innovation and entrepreneurship.
Supporting talent and leadership
The scholarship, guided by His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC), reflects the UAE’s broader vision to become a global hub for artificial intelligence and advanced technology, championed by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.Selection will be merit-based, focusing on mathematical fluency, leadership skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset. In addition to financial aid, recipients will gain opportunities to represent the UAE at high profile youth events locally and globally and access resources to launch technology ventures. Sheikh Tahnoon emphasized that the scholarship is intended to empower young innovators to apply knowledge responsibly, serve humanity, and strengthen the UAE’s position as a leader in global innovation.
A unique undergraduate AI experience
MBZUAI’s Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence is distinct from traditional AI programmes, integrating core technical training with leadership, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary study. Students engage with humanities, business, and liberal arts to develop ethical and critical perspectives essential for responsible AI development.The programme welcomes both national and international students and offers hands-on experience through industry placements, internships, and mentorships with leading organisations. MBZUAI also provides a world-class learning environment, including high-performance computational infrastructure, smart classrooms, incubation spaces, and faculty with expertise in academia and industry.Professor Eric Xing, MBZUAI President, noted that the scholarship will inspire students to grow and innovate with purpose. Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of MBZUAI’s Board of Trustees, described it as an investment in human potential, shaping the next generation of global AI leaders.The Tahnoon bin Zayed Scholarship positions MBZUAI at the forefront of undergraduate AI education, combining rigorous academics, leadership development, and practical innovation opportunities, enabling students to drive the UAE’s AI future.
