The UAE has ceased funding for its citizens studying at UK universities, citing concerns over potential radicalization amid rising tensions regarding the Muslim Brotherhood.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has decided to withdraw scholarships for its citizens pursuing higher education in the United Kingdom, expressing fears that Emirati students could be radicalized while studying abroad. This decision has resulted in the removal of British universities from the list of institutions eligible for state scholarships.
The Financial Times reported that the UAE’s decision is linked to growing tensions over the UK government’s stance on the Muslim Brotherhood, which it has not designated as a terrorist organization. A source involved in the decision stated, “The UAE don’t want their kids to be radicalized on campus.”
Consequently, Emirati students who have applied for government scholarships to study in the UK have faced rejections. Additionally, the UAE has indicated that it will not recognize qualifications from academic institutions that are not included on its accredited list. This development means that degrees obtained from UK universities may hold less value compared to those from other countries.
In response to concerns about extremism, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe educational environment. “All forms of extremism have absolutely no place in our society, and we will stamp them out wherever they are found,” the statement read. “We offer one of the best education systems in the world and maintain stringent measures on student welfare and on-campus safety.”
The UAE has adopted a stringent approach toward Islamist movements, both domestically and internationally. During the 2023-24 academic year, reports indicated that 70 students at UK universities were flagged for possible referral to the government’s deradicalization program. Starmer’s administration has stated that the situation is under “close review.”
This decision by the UAE reflects broader concerns regarding the influence of extremist ideologies in educational settings and highlights the ongoing tensions between the UAE and the UK regarding their respective stances on political Islam.
As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen how this policy change will impact Emirati students’ educational opportunities and the relationship between the UAE and UK educational institutions.
According to The Financial Times, the UAE’s actions underscore a significant shift in its approach to international education and the perceived risks associated with studying in certain countries.