Dubai Launches Second Year of Hamdan bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme to Foster Future Leaders Among Emirati Youth
In an ambitious initiative to elevate the educational prospects of its youth, Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has opened applications for the second year of the Hamdan bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme. This highly esteemed programme, inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, underscores the government’s commitment to nurturing exceptional Emirati students and fostering a generation of leaders equipped to thrive in a globalized economy.
The Hamdan bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme is a cornerstone of Dubai’s Social Agenda 33 and the Education 33 strategy, which seeks to harmonize educational excellence with the broader socio-economic objectives of the emirate. Each year, the programme offers a remarkable 100 fully funded scholarships, each valued at AED 1.1 billion—an investment that reflects Dubai’s relentless pursuit of pioneering knowledge and innovation.
The inaugural year of the scholarship programme was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from the Emirati student body, with all recipients successfully securing placements in prestigious universities ranked within the top 200 globally. This achievement is commendable, but even more striking is the fact that 15% of the cohort enrolled in institutions recognized within the top 20 worldwide. The fields of study selected by the scholars were diverse, encompassing vital sectors such as technology, engineering, medicine, law, and finance—each aligned with Dubai’s strategic vision for sustainable development and economic diversification.
Dr. Amna Almaazmi, CEO of Growth and Human Development at KHDA, articulated the importance of this initiative, stating that it plays a pivotal role in equipping students with the necessary global knowledge and competencies to navigate an ever-evolving landscape. “By empowering our youth through world-class education, we are not only investing in their futures but also in the sustainable development of our community and the preparation of tomorrow’s leaders,” Dr. Almaazmi remarked.
The application window for the 2025-2026 academic year is now open and will remain so until June 30, 2025. Eligible Emirati high school graduates are encouraged to apply through the “Emirati” section of the Dubai Now app, which simplifies the application process, ensuring accessibility for all prospective candidates. The KHDA website provides additional details and resources to assist applicants in navigating the requirements of this prestigious programme.
The significance of this scholarship scheme cannot be overstated, particularly in the context of Dubai’s aspirations to position itself as a global hub for education and innovation. By investing in the education of Emirati youth, Dubai is not only addressing current gaps in its workforce but also fostering a culture of excellence and leadership that resonates with its historical values of education and knowledge-sharing. The financial commitment to sponsor these students’ education abroad reflects the broader vision of the United Arab Emirates to engage actively in international dialogue and collaboration through education.
Moreover, the programme exemplifies a broader trend within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where governments are increasingly recognizing the pivotal role education plays in national development. As the region continues to diversify its economies beyond oil dependency, initiatives such as the Hamdan bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme are instrumental in cultivating a skilled and competent workforce capable of navigating complex global challenges.
In conclusion, Dubai’s Hamdan bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for Emirati students aspiring to make significant contributions to society while pursuing their academic ambitions. As applications are gathered for this next cohort, the anticipation of another group of bright minds ready to embark on journeys towards academic excellence and impactful leadership is palpable. The ongoing investment in education will undoubtedly yield dividends for Dubai, fortifying its status as a leading light in the Arab world and beyond.
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