Abu Dhabi University
A well-established university providing quality higher education. Offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with dedicated faculty and supportive learning environment.
- Acceptance Rate
- 68.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.4
- Size
- Large (26,311 students)
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- 1:24
- Setting
- urban
- Graduation Rate
- 74.0%
- Retention Rate
- 82.0%
- Tuition (In-State)
- $15,000
- Tuition (Int'l)
- $18,000
Academic Programs
STEM
Business
Social Sciences
Humanities
Health
Arts
English Proficiency Requirements
Student Life & Environment
Student life at Abu Dhabi University reflects the multicultural nature of the UAE. Students come from Emirati families, other Arab nations, South Asia, and beyond, creating a mix of cultural backgrounds unusual for most universities. Campus activities respect Islamic values while accommodating the international student body. Gender mixing follows UAE norms, with some separation in certain contexts. Student clubs cover academic interests, cultural groups, sports, and community service. The student government provides leadership opportunities and organizes campus events throughout the academic year. Modern student centers offer gathering spaces, dining options, and recreational facilities. Many students commute from home rather than living on campus, which shapes the rhythm of student life. Those who do live near campus often share apartments with classmates. Evening and weekend activities tend to cluster around shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues across Abu Dhabi. The city offers world-class museums, beaches, and attractions for students seeking weekend diversions. The legal drinking age of 21 and restricted alcohol availability mean campus culture differs substantially from Western universities. Students create social connections through activities, study groups, and shared experiences.
Location & Surroundings
Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates, has transformed from a small fishing village to a gleaming modern city in just a few decades. Oil wealth has funded spectacular development including skyscrapers, artificial islands, world-class museums like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and infrastructure that rivals any global city. The population of roughly 1.5 million includes a majority of expatriates from South Asia, other Arab countries, and around the world. Climate dominates daily life much of the year. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 40 degrees Celsius with high humidity, making outdoor activity miserable from May through September. Air conditioning is universal and essential. Winter months from November through March bring pleasant weather with temperatures in the 20s, perfect for beach visits and outdoor dining. The city sprawls along the Persian Gulf coast and onto islands connected by bridges and causeways. Public transportation exists but remains limited, making car ownership nearly essential for practical daily life. Taxis and ride-sharing provide alternatives for those without vehicles. Dubai is about 90 minutes away by car, offering additional shopping, entertainment, and travel options through its larger airport.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at Abu Dhabi University ranges from approximately AED 40,000 to 70,000 per year depending on the program, with engineering and business programs at the higher end. These costs exceed public UAE universities but remain lower than comparable programs in the United States or United Kingdom. Scholarships and payment plans help make education accessible to qualified students. Living costs in Abu Dhabi are substantial. Rent for shared accommodation typically runs AED 2,000 to 4,000 monthly, while food, transportation, and other expenses add to monthly budgets. Students should expect to spend AED 5,000 to 8,000 monthly beyond tuition for a reasonable lifestyle. Career prospects for ADU graduates benefit from the UAE's strong economy and the university's industry connections. Engineering graduates find positions with construction companies, oil and gas firms, and technology companies operating in the region. Business graduates enter banking, consulting, retail, and the commercial sectors that power the UAE economy. The university's career services host job fairs, maintain employer relationships, and provide placement support. UAE labor market dynamics favor citizens for many positions, which international students should understand when planning post-graduation options. Many graduates return to their home countries or find opportunities elsewhere in the Gulf region.
Campus Location
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