Universities in Al Ain

UAE is home to several top universities covering various popular courses including medicine, engineering, business management and so on. Whether you talk about the universities in Al Ain, universities in Sharjah or universities in Dubai, there are plenty of options for students to choose from. These top institutes in Al Ain impart quality education that is on par with international standards.

Al Ain is located around 160 kilometres from Abu Dhabi and shares borders with the Sultanate of Oman. It’s a beautiful city with plenty of tourist attractions. The Al Ain universities also attract students from within and outside the UAE as some new universities in Al Ain have opened up in the last decade or two. There are a number of family-friendly apartments and villas for rent in Al Ain, to cater to the growing population in this picturesque region. 

This blog presents a list of colleges and universities in Al Ain Abu Dhabi and explores their key features such as courses offered, scholarships, on-campus residential facilities and more. We hope it helps you identify which universities in Al Ain UAE should be considered.

Top Universities in Al Ain

Al Ain University of Science and Technology

The late ruler of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al-Nahyan’s focus was to develop opportunities for scientific research and innovation. Today, the UAE is reaping the benefits of his great vision. It was all about learning, taking maximum advantage of technology and moving ahead as a country.

Keeping his vision into consideration, the Al Ain University of Science and Technology was established in the year 2004. Currently, this university offers 15 accredited Bachelor’s degree programs, seven accredited Master’s degree programs and one diploma program. It has one of the most comprehensive lists of courses among the top universities in Al Ain. 

Until the end of the term in 2018, over 7,138 students had graduated from this Al Ain University. Among these 1,261 were international (Non-GCC) students. Currently, 1,450 students are enrolled in different programs. This Al Ain university location is near Al Ain Municipality, while its second campus is in Abu Dhabi.

What courses can I study at the Al Ain University of Science and Technology?

You have the option to choose specialised courses from the following fields:

• Engineering
• Business
• Education
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Pharmacy
• Law
• Education
• Communication and Media
• Professional Diploma in Teaching.

Which accreditations does the University have?

The University has the following accreditations:

• International Accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) in the United States.
• International Certification of the Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the Accrediting Council for Education in Pharmacy (ACPE)
• The Council for Evaluation, Research and Higher Education (HCERES)
• International Accreditation of the Bachelor of Law from the Council for Evaluation, Research and Higher Education (HCERES)
• AQAS

What is the admission process at the University?

You can apply online for admissions to the Al Ain University of Science and Technology and subsequently, you will be guided through the process by a university representative. Each course has its own set of entry requirements, which you would need to meet.

Are there any scholarships at Al Ain University of Science and Technology?

Yes, merit-based academic and non-academic scholarships are offered to deserving students. Al Ain University fees are course specific. 

United Arab Emirates University

The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) has the honour of being the first university in the country. Founded in the year 1976, UAEU was the brainchild of the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It has shaped the academic landscape of the UAE with its research-intensive approach. Experienced international faculty, state-of-the-art facilities and academic and non-academic institutional support ensure that graduating students are ready to face modern day challenges.

It is ranked 5^th amongst the top universities in the Arab World and is in the list of top 350 universities worldwide. Over the years, Emirates University in Al Ain has become a place for innovation and excellence.

In the recent past, UAEU research team has played a vital role in areas such as identifying water resources, solar, renewable energy, petroleum resources, and medical advancement. So among the universities in Al Ain United Arab Emirates, UAEU is considered to be one of the best.

What courses can I study at United Arab Emirates University?

You can select undergraduate and graduate programs from the following fields:

• Business and Economics
• Business Administration
• Education
• Engineering
• Food and Agriculture
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Information Technology
• Law
• Science

Which accreditations does the University have?

The University has the following institutional accreditations:

• Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission

* Please check for individual program-based accreditations

What is the admission process at the United Arab Emirates University?

You can apply online and subsequently, a university representative will guide you through the process. Each course has its own set of entry requirements, which you would need to meet.

Is there is an on-campus residence facility for students?

Yes, there is boarding facility for students of United Arab Emirates University. The Residential Life Department at UAEU in collaboration with student bodies has created a fun and engaging environment. It is a home away from home. The facility offers:

• Bedrooms
• Mosques
• Gyms
• Games rooms
• Lounges with TV cable
• Kitchens
• Laundry rooms
• Internet connection
• Cleaning services

Are there any scholarships or financial aid programs at UAEU?

Yes, merit-based academic and non-academic scholarships are offered. These scholarships are divided into different categories based on program, nationality, and student performance.

College of Medical and Health Sciences

Part of UAEU but working as a separate unit is College of Medical and Health Sciences. When it opened in 1984, it was the 1st medical school of the country. Today after 35 years, it is the highest ranked medical school in UAE. Hence it would not be wrong to say that it is one of the best medical universities in Al Ain. 

What courses can I take at the College of Medical and Health Sciences?

You can select from the following courses:

• Anatomy
• Biochemistry
• Family Medicine
• Institute of Public Health
• Internal Medicine
• Medical Education
• Medical Microbiology and Immunology
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Pathology
• Pediatrics
• Pharmacology and Therapeutics
• Physiology
• Psychiatry and Behavioural Science
• Surgery

Which accreditation does the College have in medical science education?

It is accredited by the General Medical Council (GMC)

Abu Dhabi University Al Ain Campus

This purpose-built campus of Abu Dhabi University is among the biggest universities in Al Ain (in terms of covered area). In fact, it is among the biggest universities across the UAE. With research-based teaching methodologies and experienced staff, this campus is replicating the success of the main campus. Male and female students have separate learning spaces.

Located in Asharej district, interestingly the university’s architecture has been inspired by Ghaf Tree. Moreover, the university has 36-scientific laboratories, a moot courtroom, 36 classrooms, gymnasium, aerobics studio, games room, football court, a tennis court and cafeteria.

What courses can I study at Abu Dhabi University?

You can select undergraduate and graduate programs from the following fields:

• Arts and Sciences
• Business
• Engineering
• Law
• Academic Programs for Military Colleges

Which accreditations does the Abu Dhabi University in Al Ain have?

The University has the following accreditations:

• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
• European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS)
• ABET
• Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)

What is the admission process at the Abu Dhabi University?

You can apply online and or on campus. If you pass the criterion of admission, a university representative will guide you through the subsequent process.

Are there any scholarships or financial aid programs?

Yes, the following scholarships options can be availed by students:

• H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship
• Chairman’s Scholarship
• University Scholarship
• Academic Scholarship
• Athletic Scholarship
• Alumni Scholarship
• Merit-based Graduate Scholarship

Higher College of Technologies – Al Ain

Higher College of Technologies has two campuses in Al Ain, one for men and one for women. Both have been operational for the past two decades. Both campuses offer modern and in-demand programs. The infrastructure matches with all other universities in Al Ain. With the latest technology and research-based learning methodologies, all graduates are well-equipped with 21^st-century skills. 

What courses can I study at the Higher College of Technologies?

Programs can be selected from the following fields:

Women’s campus

• Business
• Computer Information Science
• Education
• Engineering Technology & Science

Men’s campus

• Business
• Engineering Technology & Science
• Health Services

Which accreditations does the University have?

The University is accredited by The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), USA

* Individual programs have field-specific program accreditations.

What is the admission process at the University?

Students enrolled in UAE schools can apply with the help of their school counsellors. Alternatively, like international students, local students can also apply online by filling the admission form.

Are there any scholarships or financial aid programs?

Following scholarships or awards can be attained by students during their programs:

• Chancellor’s Awards
• Industry Awards
• Rashid Award
• Fulbright Scholarships for Graduates
• Citi Foundation Bachelor Scholarships
• Director’s List

This wraps up our list of top universities in Al Ain. Besides the universities mentioned above, there are other institutes in Al Ain like Al Jaheli Institute of Science and Technology and UAEU College of Business and Economics for students who’d like to pursue higher education.

Besides a stimulating learning environment, if you study in Al Ain, you will have plenty of options to relax and have fun. There are some outstanding attractions in Al Ain like the Al Ain Zoo, and Wadi Adventure Al Ain. You’d also love the amazing malls in Al Ain if you enjoy retail therapy. Follow MyBayut – a blog about UAE real estate and lifestyle to keep tabs on all the happenings in Al Ain.