Quick Summary
Private in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates — Abu Dhabi University, est. 2003. Ranked #501 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 8000 students including 28% from outside United Arab Emirates. Known for strengths in Business and Management Studies, Social Sciences, Engineering - Mechanical, it maintains an acceptance rate of 75%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Highly ranked globally and in the Arab region, featuring internationally accredited programs and high employability rates.
Subject Strengths
Business and Management StudiesSocial SciencesEngineering - MechanicalEngineering - ElectricalArchitecture
Founded2003
TypePrivate
Total Students8000
Intl Students28%
Faculty Ratio20:1
CampusUrban
Campus SizeLarge-scale urban campuses across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Dubai
Affiliated HospitalsNot Available
AccreditationWSCUC (USA), CAA (UAE), ABET, AACSB, EQUIS
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#501
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#251-300
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
Not Available
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's Degrees,Master's Degrees,Doctoral Programs,Professional Diplomas
Programs
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA),PhD in Business Administration
PhD Programs
Professional development certifications,Hybrid learning options for graduate programs
Online Programs
Center for Excellence in Smart and Sustainable Cities,ADU Research Institute,Innovation Center
Research Centers
High
Research Output
WSCUC (USA), CAA (UAE), ABET, AACSB, EQUIS
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate75%
IELTS6
TOEFL79
Min GPA2.5
GRENot Available
GMATNot Available
SAT1100
ACT22
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · August 30
SPRINGApplication Deadline · January 15
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Early applications are encouraged for competitive scholarships. Ensure EmSAT requirements are met for UAE residents.
05
Cost Ledger
Amounts in United Arab Emirates Dirham
UG Tuition
AED60,600/yr
per year · AED
Living Cost
AED44,000/yr
per year · AED
PG Tuition
AED66,000/yr
per year · AED
Application Fee
$110
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
AED105,000/yr
tuition + living + essentials · AED
Scholarships AvailableH.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship,Chairman’s Scholarship,Academic Scholarship,Athletic Scholarship,Family Tuition Rebate
Avg Scholarship$5,000
Financial AidAvailable based on merit and financial hardship
Work-StudyAvailable
06
Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's Degrees,Master's Degrees,Doctoral Programs,Professional Diplomas programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| BBA in Accounting | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| BSc in Mechanical Engineering | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| BSc in Architecture | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| BSc in Biomedical Engineering | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$45,000
Average Salary After Graduation
90%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong career development support with local and international industry partners
Industry Connections
MubadalaADNOCEtihad AirwaysSiemensand various UAE government entities
Notable Alumni
Various UAE government leaders and industry executives
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Indoor and outdoor gyms, sports halls, football pitches, basketball and volleyball courts
Student Clubs
Student Council, Photography Club, Entrepreneurship Club, Environmental Club, Red Crescent Club
Library Resources
Extensive digital collections, physical libraries in three cities, group study spaces, and research support
Exchange Programs
Available
Summer Programs
Available