Colleges in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches

The academy is globally recognised for its focus on the Swiss model of experiential learning in hospitality. It offers the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Global Hospitality Management, which integrates hands-on practical arts with business theory, and requires students to complete professional internships Its location in Abu Dhabi connects students directly to a rapidly growing and influential regional hub for tourism and luxury hospitality. This strategic placement offers extensive networking and internship opportunities within a global city

Abu Dhabi Polytechnic

The institution is known for its dual educational-professional training system in high-tech disciplines, established to serve the UAE industrial manpower requirements for Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. It offers specialised Bachelor's programs in fields like Advanced Energy, Information Security Engineering Technology, Petroleum Engineering Technology, and Aircraft Engineering Technology (Al Ain campus). Programs often integrate structured on-the-job training and are accredited by international bodies like ABET. Its programs are industry-driven and aligned with national strategic development goals, providing graduates with in-demand skills and competitive career prospects in key sectors such as aviation, petroleum, and cybersecurity within the UAE.

Abu Dhabi School of Management

Abu Dhabi School of Management (ADSM) is distinguished as an entrepreneurial business school, strongly focused on innovation, leadership, and quality. It is recognised for incorporating cutting-edge subjects like AI Management and partnering with top global institutions such as Imperial College Business School (UK) for its MBA. As a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, ADSM is positioned in Downtown Abu Dhabi within the Al Hisn area. This central location ensures students have direct access to the Emirate's major business networks, industry programs, and the ADSM Management Incubator (ADMI).

Abu Dhabi University (ADU)

Abu Dhabi University's College of Business is one of only two percent of business schools worldwide to hold the prestigious AACSB and EQUIS double accreditation. Many of its engineering programs in the College of Engineering are accredited by ABET. ADU is ranked 1st in the UAE for the teaching pillar by the 2025 Times Higher Education Rankings The main campus is in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, offering access to major government institutions and a thriving economic environment. ADU also has campuses in Al Ain, Dubai, and Al Dhafra, providing broader regional access and specialised campus environments. The Dubai campus focuses on internationally recognised and accredited business, engineering, and law postgraduate programs

Al Ain University (AAU)

Al Ain University (AAU) offers a diverse range of accredited programmes, including 30 Bachelor's degrees, 14 Master's degrees, 2 professional diplomas, and 3 PhD programmes across 8 colleges. The university is particularly noted for its AACSB-accredited Business School, which focuses on developing responsible business leaders through innovative teaching and impactful research. Located in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi, AAU provides students with access to a blend of traditional and modern educational experiences in the UAE's cultural and economic hubs. The Al Ain campus is situated in a city known for its rich heritage and natural beauty, offering a unique environment for academic and personal growth.

Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy

AGDA is a specialised federal diplomatic research and civil service training institute focused entirely on foreign affairs and diplomacy for the UAE. It offers unique, accredited programs like the Post-Graduate Diploma (PGD) in UAE Diplomacy and International Relations. The curriculum includes mandatory, practical learning experiences such as Annual Field Trips to expose students to bilateral and multilateral diplomacy firsthand. The academy is strategically located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, the nation's capital and the centre of its foreign policy establishment. Its mission is directly tied to advancing the UAE's foreign policy interests, providing unparalleled access and career pathways within the UAE's diplomatic corps

Emirates Academy for Identity & Citizenship (EAIC)

EAIC is a highly specialised federal academy operating under the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security. It offers unique, accredited programs like the Bachelor's and Diploma in Identity Management and Security Sciences. Its curriculum is designed to enhance the professional competencies of human resources in the national security and citizenship fields in the UAE. The Academy operates a main campus in Abu Dhabi and a branch in Dubai, offering strategic locations within the UAE. Being part of a Federal Authority ensures its programs directly align with the nation's strategic goals for security and identity management.

Fatima College of Health Sciences (FCHS)

FCHS is a specialised institution established to meet the UAE's growing need for skilled healthcare professionals. It is known for its focused programs like the Bachelor of Emergency Health (Paramedics). The presence of the main campus in Abu Dhabi, a major healthcare hub, provides students with strong linkages to key institutions for clinical training and employment.

Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE)

ECAE is a specialist, government-funded teacher training college in Abu Dhabi, playing a pivotal role in the modernisation of UAE education. Its core strength lies in its research-based Bachelor's and Master of Education programs, offering niche specialisations like Special Needs Education and Educational Leadership. The college provides extensive practicum and mentoring opportunities, aligning its curriculum with national priorities to produce transformative educators. Located in the Al Zafranah area of Abu Dhabi, the college benefits from being a government-affiliated institute, ensuring its programs are aligned with the national educational strategy and provide access to career opportunities within the UAE's education sector.

Emirates Institute of Finance (EIF), Abu Dhabi

Long-standing, sector-focused institution (est. 1983) specifically built to serve the UAE banking & finance sector - combines academic degrees with large-scale professional training. Offers targeted academic degrees (BSc in Banking & Finance; new BSc in Actuarial Science) plus a broad catalogue of short courses, certificates and professional pathways (CFA/CISI prep, Islamic banking diplomas, AML, risk & compliance). Strong industry linkages and large-scale Emiratisation initiatives (Ethraa, Bedayati) that connect learners directly to banks, regulators and employers. Abu Dhabi campus places EIF close to national regulators, major banks and government initiatives (the Central Bank/CBUAE has been an active partner in EIF initiatives, including the Innovation Hub). That proximity supports internships, on-the-job training and partnerships.

Hamdan Bin Zayed College

The College is a pioneering institution dedicated to experiential learning and the liberal arts and sciences. It is modelled on colleges like Deep Springs and focuses on developing future leaders through humility and grit. Students will engage in an integrated academic, cultural, and labour curriculum, where daily student work is mandatory for community operations. The College is designed as a small, self-contained, eco-conscious desert community in the remote Al Dhafra region. This setting enforces a unique, fully residential, and integrated learning environment, rooting students in Emirati traditions and place while offering an intensive liberal arts education.

Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT)

HCT is the UAE's largest applied higher education institution. It is renowned for its hands-on, workplace-relevant teaching, with programs developed in consultation with industry leaders. It is the nation's first approved university economic free zone, enabling it to graduate companies and foster applied learning and innovation. As a national institution with its main colleges in Abu Dhabi, HCT benefits from strong governmental alignment and provides students with direct exposure to key UAE economic sectors, maximising employability for its graduates.

INSEAD – The Business School for the World, Abu Dhabi

INSEAD Abu Dhabi is part of a globally unique multi-campus system (Europe, Asia, Middle East), offering an unparalleled, culturally diverse educational perspective. It is a dedicated hub for executive education, notably delivering the highly ranked Global Executive MBA (GEMBA) with a specialised focus on the rapidly evolving dynamics of the MENA region, alongside its new Master in Finance (MIF) programme. Situated in Abu Dhabi, a major financial and economic hub, the campus acts as a strategic gateway to the Arabic culture and the wider Middle East market, providing senior professionals with high-level networking opportunities and region-specific business exposure.

Joint Command and Staff College (JCSC) – Abu Dhabi

The JCSC is a premier, tri-service institution of the UAE Armed Forces, excelling in professional military education (PME), particularly in the Art of War and Operational Art. It offers advanced PME courses, including the Joint Command and Staff Course, alongside accredited Master's degrees in strategic and international affairs Its location in Abu Dhabi, the nation's capital, places it at the heart of the UAE's defence and security strategy, providing a highly strategic and relevant learning environment

Khalifa Bin Zayed Air College

Khalifa Bin Zayed Air College is the UAE’s primary military aviation academy, offering specialised training in fighter aviation, helicopter operations, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies, and air defence. The college provides a Bachelor of Aviation degree tailored for future officers in the UAE Air Force. Situated at Al Ain International Airport, the college offers cadets direct access to aviation operations, facilitating practical training in a real-world environment. This strategic location enhances the learning experience by integrating academic instruction with hands-on aviation practice.

Khalifa University of Science and Technology

KU is the UAE's only university with Very High Research Intensity, focusing on strategic national priorities like Aerospace, Nuclear Energy (for eligible students), Artificial Intelligence, and Robotics. It seamlessly integrates science, engineering, and medicine into a world-class, research-driven environment. Located in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, providing direct links to government research institutions, major energy companies (ADNOC), and the burgeoning high-tech sector in Masdar City.

Liwa University

Liwa University (formerly Liwa College) is a CAA-accredited institution in the UAE offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It is known for aligning its curriculum with local and regional market demands, offering flexible timings, and holding international accreditation for its Business programs. The Abu Dhabi Campus is centrally located, offering students access to the capital's professional, governmental, and healthcare sectors for networking and career opportunities.

Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities

MBZUH is a prominent state university focusing on Humanities, Social Sciences, and Philosophy, with a core mission to promote Islamic and Arabic culture in a modern, moderate context. It offers unique degrees such as a Bachelor of Arts in Tolerance and Coexistence and a Master of Islamic Studies in Jurisprudence of Reality. Located in Abu Dhabi, the university benefits from the UAE's vision to be a global leader in advanced education, offering an environment that promotes coexistence, respect for human rights, and global awareness.

Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence

MBZUAI is a graduate research university established to advance AI as a global force for humanity. It offers a highly focused curriculum in cutting-edge AI fields, with its research ranked among the top 10 globally in its specialisations (AI, CV, ML, NLP, ROB, and Computational Bio) by CSRankings. Located in Masdar City, a sustainable urban community designed as a smart innovation cluster, MBZUAI is a key part of the UAE's National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, positioning Abu Dhabi as a global AI hub.

National Defense College

It specialises in strategic and security studies for senior military and civilian leadership. Offers a Master’s degree in Strategic & Security Studies and participation certificates. Focus is on developing critical & strategic thinking, crisis & security assessment, and management of state resources in national security contexts. Being in the capital city, Abu Dhabi, gives proximity to the UAE's main defence, security, foreign affairs, and governmental bodies. Access to regional and international strategic forums, policy makers, and government ministries. Enables integration with national strategic decision-making institutions.

New York University Abu Dhabi

NYU Abu Dhabi offers a comprehensive liberal arts education with a global perspective, providing students with the tools to challenge the norm and prepare to change the world. The curriculum spans the disciplines of the arts and humanities, social sciences, engineering, and science, encouraging students to think critically and question thoroughly. Situated on Saadiyat Island, NYU Abu Dhabi is part of a cultural district that houses the Louvre Abu Dhabi and is planned to house the Zayed National Museum and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi museum. This location provides students with unique opportunities to engage with diverse cultures and perspectives.

Police College, Abu Dhabi

Police College, Abu Dhabi (PCAD) is a premier institution dedicated to preparing future leaders in law enforcement. It offers specialised programmes in applied police sciences, criminal justice, and security studies, combining theoretical knowledge with practical training. The college’s curriculum emphasises leadership, ethics, and operational expertise. Located in Abu Dhabi, Police College, Abu Dhabi (PCAD) provides students with access to national law enforcement agencies and security institutions. Its proximity to key government and police departments allows for real-world exposure, internships, and training that directly complement academic learning.

Rabdan Academy

Rabdan Academy (RA) is the region’s first higher-education institution specialised in Safety, Security, Defence, Emergency Preparedness & Crisis Management (SSDEC). It offers unique dual vocational and academic programmes delivered by experienced global faculty, combining theory and hands-on training. Situated in Abu Dhabi, RA gives students direct access to the UAE’s national security, emergency services and defence sectors. Its proximity to major institutions ensures strong ties for internships, real-world projects and employer partnerships.

Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Naval College

Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Naval College (RBSAMNC) serves as the UAE Armed Forces’ naval academy, offering specialised training in naval operations, leadership, and maritime defence. The college provides diploma and bachelor's degree programmes, focusing on producing skilled naval officers for national defence. Located in Al Taweelah, Abu Dhabi, RBSAMNC benefits from its proximity to key naval facilities and the UAE Armed Forces headquarters. This strategic location facilitates hands-on training and direct access to operational naval units, enhancing the practical experience of its cadets.

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi

SUAD is the exclusive branch campus of a French University worldwide, blending the academic tradition of Sorbonne Université (Paris) and Université Paris Cité with Emirati ambition. It is particularly strong in Humanities, Social Sciences, Law, and Mathematics/Physics, offering degrees that are internationally recognized French national degrees. Located under its iconic dome on Al Reem Island, a central and modern district of Abu Dhabi. This strategic location provides a world-class, dedicated campus environment while integrating students into the capital's growing economic and cultural landscape.

United Arab Emirates University (UAEU)

Established in 1976, UAEU is the UAE's first comprehensive national university, offering a full range of accredited undergraduate and graduate programmes across nine colleges. The university is renowned for its research initiatives, particularly in areas such as health sciences, engineering, and environmental sustainability. Situated in Al Ain, a major cultural hub of the UAE, offering a dedicated, self-contained campus environment outside the bustle of Dubai/Abu Dhabi city centers.

Zayed II Military College

It is the principal officer training institution for the UAE Army, offering programs in military sciences, specialised management, and engineering in partnership with accredited universities. Located in Al Ain, the college operates under the direct supervision of the General Command of the Armed Forces, ensuring training is aligned with the national defence strategy.

Zayed University

Zayed University (ZU) delivers bilingual education (English & Arabic) across six colleges, including Information Technology, Business, Arts & Sciences, Communication & Media, Education, and University College. It emphasises innovation, research, quantitative skills and social development in its programmes. Based in Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi, Zayed University (ZU) has a modern, expansive campus (about 77 hectares) with state-of-the-art facilities. Its central location connects students with government, business and cultural sectors important for internships and future careers.