UAE University Enrolment Rises 13% to a Decade High as AI Reshapes Skills
More than 57,000 new students joined UAE universities in 2024-25, the highest intake in a decade, as AI changes the skills graduates will need for work.
By Vadim Kouznetsov, published
More than 57,000 new students enrolled in UAE universities during the 2024-25 academic year, a 13 per cent rise on the year before and the highest intake recorded in a decade. The figures, reported by 66 higher education institutions, come as universities face pressure to prepare graduates for a job market being reshaped by artificial intelligence, Gulf News reported.
UAE university enrolment hits a decade high
The timing matters. According to the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025, around 41 per cent of workers' core skills in the UAE are expected to change by 2030. A student starting a course today could therefore graduate into a market with different requirements from the one they see now.
That puts the spotlight on what universities teach beyond the textbook, a shift already reflected in UAE Universities Shift Focus to Job-Ready Graduates Under New Federal Law.
What students now want from a university
Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, told Gulf News that "today's students are looking for much more than a degree."
He said students now weigh several factors when choosing where to study:
- Job opportunities after graduation
- Wellbeing
- Technology
- Industry partnerships
- Practical experience
Aouad added that internships, research projects and partnerships with companies are becoming increasingly important, because they help students build experience before they graduate.
The skills AI cannot easily replace
As AI spreads across industries, Aouad said universities must teach students to use technology responsibly while building skills that are hard to replace. He listed:
- Critical thinking
- Creativity
- Problem-solving
- Decision-making
He also argued that knowing how to use AI is just the start. Students need to learn when to question it, challenge it and apply sound judgement to what it produces.
That matches what employers say they want. Human skills such as communication are high on hiring lists, as shown in Communication Tops UAE Employers' Wish List as Human Skills Lead Hiring.
How universities are adapting their courses
To keep up with changing job requirements, Abu Dhabi University has introduced programmes in:
- Artificial intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Renewable energy
- Financial technology
- Digital media
- Video game design
- Public health
The university has also launched ADU Connect, an AI-powered platform that brings different student services together. Since it was established, Abu Dhabi University has graduated more than 31,000 students and welcomed over 25,800 expatriate students.
What this means if you are choosing a course
If you or your child are picking a university, the experts' points suggest a few practical checks:
- Ask about internships. Find out how the university connects students with employers before graduation.
- Look at industry partnerships. Links with companies can mean real projects and early contacts.
- Check how AI is taught. Look for courses that teach critical use of AI, not just the tools.
- Weigh fields linked to change. Areas such as AI, cybersecurity, renewable energy and fintech are where universities are adding programmes.
For a wider view of AI and careers, see UAE Launches AI and Data Authority: What It Means for Jobs.
Key takeaway
UAE university enrolment rose 13 per cent in 2024-25 to more than 57,000 new students, the highest in a decade. With around 41 per cent of core skills in the UAE expected to change by 2030, students who combine a degree with practical experience and sound judgement about AI will be better placed for work.
FAQ
How many students enrolled in UAE universities in 2024-25?
More than 57,000 new students enrolled in the 2024-25 academic year, according to figures reported by 66 higher education institutions. It was the highest intake in a decade.
How much did UAE university enrolment increase?
New enrolment rose 13 per cent compared with the previous academic year, Gulf News reported.
How will AI change jobs in the UAE?
The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 expects around 41 per cent of workers' core skills in the UAE to change by 2030, so graduates may face different requirements from today's.
What skills should UAE students focus on?
Abu Dhabi University's chancellor highlighted critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving and decision-making, plus the judgement to question and challenge AI outputs.
What new programmes has Abu Dhabi University introduced?
It has added programmes in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, renewable energy, financial technology, digital media, video game design and public health.
Further reading
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