Strengthening Ties for Future Leaders 🚀

Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and IDP Education have renewed and expanded their strategic partnership for the third consecutive year, focusing on the prestigious Hamdan bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme. This collaboration, announced on February 20, 2026, aims to empower high-achieving Emirati students by providing enhanced access to world-class higher education opportunities abroad and within the UAE.

The partnership builds on two years of successful support, where IDP has offered expert admissions guidance to place scholars at universities ranked in the global top 200 by QS and Times Higher Education (THE) rankings. Now, in its third phase, it emphasizes broader outreach, student engagement, and comprehensive support to ensure more eligible Emiratis are aware of and can seize these transformative opportunities.

Background of the Hamdan bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme

Launched in January 2024 under the visionary directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, the Hamdan bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme (HbMSP) represents a cornerstone of Dubai's Social Agenda D33. With an endowment of AED 1.1 billion (approximately USD 300 million), the initiative annually funds 100 top-performing Emirati high school graduates from both public and private schools in Dubai to pursue bachelor's degrees in high-demand fields.

The programme's core mission is to cultivate a new generation of Emirati leaders equipped with academic excellence, specialized expertise, leadership acumen, and entrepreneurial spirit. By prioritizing studies at elite international institutions or select UAE universities, it aligns directly with Dubai's ambitions to diversify its economy, bolster innovation, and enhance human capital development. Priority specializations include health sciences, engineering, artificial intelligence, sustainable energy, business analytics, and cybersecurity—fields critical to the emirate's future growth sectors.

Since inception, the programme has seen surging interest. In its inaugural year (2024-25), 321 applications were received, with selected scholars heading to 30 prestigious universities worldwide. The second cohort (2025-26) attracted 413 applicants, underscoring growing awareness and appeal among Dubai's youth.

Strategic Importance in UAE Higher Education

The HbMSP plays a pivotal role in bridging Dubai's K-12 education system with global higher education, ensuring seamless transitions for top talent. KHDA, responsible for regulating private education in Dubai, leverages this programme to fulfill its mandate of fostering quality, innovation, and accessibility in learning pathways. By partnering with entities like IDP, KHDA addresses key challenges such as university admissions complexity, cultural adaptation for study abroad, and alignment with UAE's National Agenda for talent localization (Emiratization).

This initiative complements other UAE higher education efforts, such as automatic degree recognition for 34 universities and reforms in the Higher Education Law emphasizing employability. It positions Dubai as a hub for attracting and nurturing global-caliber Emirati professionals, who upon return, contribute to universities like Khalifa University, UAE University, and Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences—HbMSP-approved institutions for domestic studies.Discover more UAE higher education opportunities.

Dr. Amna Almaazmi, CEO of KHDA's Growth and Human Development sector, emphasized: "Our continued partnership with IDP Education reflects our shared commitment to supporting ambitious Emirati students... helping to nurture a generation of Emirati leaders equipped with the knowledge, specialised expertise, and entrepreneurial mindset needed to contribute meaningfully to Dubai's future priorities."

Detailed Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the HbMSP, applicants must meet stringent yet inclusive criteria designed to identify true excellence. Core requirements include:

• UAE citizenship with a family book issued in Dubai.
• Age 17-20 at application, high school graduates from the current or prior two years (e.g., 2024-25, 2023-24, 2022-23 for 2026 cohort).
• Minimum academic thresholds varying by curriculum:
  • MOE General/Applied: 90%+ overall.
  • American: GPA 3.75+, SAT Math 650+, IELTS 6.0/TOEFL iBT 60+.
  • IB Diploma: 28+ points, with 5+ in two HL subjects.
  • British: B in two A-Levels or equivalent.
  • Others like SABIS, German, French have specific benchmarks.
• Conditional/unconditional admission to an approved university/program in priority fields.
• No concurrent scholarships; full-time dedication required.

Extracurricular achievements in leadership, innovation, or community service bolster applications, reflecting the programme's holistic evaluation approach. For UAE studies, approved institutions include Mohammed Bin Rashid University, University of Sharjah, American University of Sharjah, Khalifa University, UAE University, University of Birmingham Dubai, Curtin Dubai, and University of Wollongong Dubai.

Comprehensive Benefits Package

HbMSP scholars receive unparalleled support, making higher education accessible without financial burden. For international studies:

• Full tuition coverage for the entire bachelor's duration.
• Monthly living stipend (amount tailored to destination cost of living).
• Accommodation allowance or on-campus housing support.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Annual round-trip economy flights home.
• Visa processing fees and first-year laptop allowance.

Domestic scholars get tuition, textbooks, and student services fees covered. All benefit from mentorship programmes, internships with Dubai-based firms, and career guidance to ensure smooth reintegration and employability. This holistic package not only funds education but invests in lifelong success.

Photo by Tobias Reich on Unsplash

IDP Education's Pivotal Role

IDP Education, a global leader in international student placement and IELTS administration, brings unmatched expertise to the partnership. Since the initial announcement in September 2024, IDP has facilitated admissions for HbMSP cohorts through personalized counseling, university fairs (e.g., Najah 2024/2025, IDP Education Expo), and orientation events graced by Sheikh Hamdan.

Imad Chaoui, IDP's Regional Director for MEA, EU & CIS, noted: "Supporting the HBM Scholarship Programme... is a privilege, allowing us to give back to the Dubai community." The strengthened tie-up expands IDP's involvement to proactive outreach in Dubai schools, virtual webinars, and post-admission support like visa assistance and pre-departure briefings.

This synergy ensures scholars target institutions like those in the UK, US, Australia, and Canada—hubs for STEM and business excellence—maximizing ROI on Dubai's investment.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for the third cohort (2026-27 academic year) opens soon via the "Emirati" section of the Dubai Now app. Here's how:

1. Verify eligibility and gather documents (family book, HS certificate/MoE equivalency, admission letter, passport, English scores).
2. Submit online application during the window (typically May-August).
3. Undergo evaluation: academic merit (70%), extracurriculars/leadership (30%).
4. Shortlisted candidates attend interviews/presentations.
5. Selections announced; orientation follows.

Top applicants secure spots; others may receive guidance for alternatives. Stay updated via KHDA's official page.

Success Stories and Key Statistics

The programme's impact is evident: First cohort scholars attended 30 top universities, pursuing fields vital to UAE's Vision 2031. Second cohort expanded reach amid 413 applications—a 29% increase. American curriculum students dominate applicants (60%), reflecting Dubai's diverse schooling.

Sheikh Hamdan personally commended inaugural recipients, highlighting their role in Dubai's progress. Returnees often join UAE universities or sectors like healthcare and tech, boosting Emiratization rates. For inspiration, consider linking success to career paths via higher ed career advice.

Impact on UAE's Higher Education Ecosystem

HbMSP elevates UAE colleges by creating a talent pipeline. Domestic scholars strengthen institutions like University of Sharjah (top UAE in some QS subjects), while abroad alumni bring global best practices back, fostering research collaborations and faculty exchanges. This aligns with UAE's higher ed reforms, including AI integration at Khalifa University and international campuses in Dubai.

Stakeholders praise the programme: educators note heightened motivation in schools; universities report improved graduate profiles. Challenges like competition for spots are offset by IDP's expanded outreach, potentially increasing applicant diversity.

Priority Fields and Global Destinations

Selections target Dubai's economic pillars:

• Health Sciences & Medicine
• Engineering (Aerospace, Civil, Electrical)
• AI & Data Science
• Sustainable Energy & Environment
• Business & Finance
• Cybersecurity & Digital Innovation

Approved abroad unis: QS/THE top 200 overall or top 100 subject-specific. Popular destinations: USA (MIT, Stanford), UK (Oxford, Imperial), Australia (Melbourne, Sydney), Canada (Toronto, UBC).

Photo by Dubai Travel Blog on Unsplash

Future Outlook and Third Cohort Opportunities

As applications for the 2026 cohort loom, expect further expansion: more seats, virtual fairs, alumni networks. IDP's Dubai-based regional hub (overseeing 41 countries) ensures scalable support. This partnership exemplifies public-private synergy, positioning Dubai as a global education leader.

Prospective applicants: Build strong profiles early—ace SAT/IELTS, lead clubs, secure conditional offers. For career alignment, check higher ed jobs and scholarships.

Actionable Advice for Aspiring Scholars

Prepare by:

• Targeting priority fields with research internships.
• Enhancing English via IDP IELTS prep.
• Networking at KHDA events.
• Exploring backups like Dubai Distinguished Students Programme.

Rate professors at dream unis via Rate My Professor. This programme isn't just funding—it's a launchpad for UAE's future.