In a decisive move to support students during ongoing regional uncertainty, De Montfort University Dubai has announced scholarships covering up to 100% of tuition fees for eligible UAE and GCC students. The initiative aims to ease financial strain while ensuring uninterrupted academic progress.
At the same time, universities across the UAE are reopening campuses, signalling a gradual but confident return to in-person education after weeks of disruption.
Financial Aid and Academic Flexibility Take Centre Stage
Alongside full and partial scholarships, the university has rolled out several student-centric measures. These include no-penalty resits and automatic extensions on coursework submissions. As a result, students can maintain academic continuity without facing undue pressure.
Moreover, the university has adapted its admissions process. It will now issue offers based on predicted grades after the cancellation of international examinations in the UAE. This approach ensures that students do not lose placements due to circumstances beyond their control.
Campus Reopening Signals Return to Normalcy
De Montfort University Dubai will reopen its campus on April 27. Nearly 80% of students are expected to return to physical classrooms. Meanwhile, those unable to attend in person can continue learning through the institution’s “Global Classroom” system, which enables real-time hybrid participation.
Professor Simon Bradbury, Provost and Pro Vice-Chancellor International, emphasised the resilience of the UAE’s education ecosystem. He noted that both students and staff adapted quickly, ensuring learning never stopped despite disruptions.
Surge in Applications Reflects Renewed Confidence
Interestingly, the university has reported a sharp rebound in student interest. Applications have increased five-fold week-on-week, approaching levels last seen in February. This surge indicates renewed confidence among prospective students as stability returns.
Wider UAE Higher Education Sector Resumes Operations
The reopening trend extends beyond a single institution. Ajman University resumed on-campus learning on April 20, welcoming students back after a temporary shift to remote education.
Similarly, University of Dubai restarted academic and administrative operations in line with government guidance. Amity University Dubai has also phased its return, initially bringing staff back before reopening to students.
Consequently, institutions across the country remain prepared to switch between in-person and remote learning modes. This hybrid readiness ensures continuity while maintaining flexibility in an evolving environment.
