abu-dhabi-mosque-arches-pillars-night
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Arts + Sciences (Abu Dhabi University)

Study Program

Tentative Dates

-

18 weeks

Eligibility

Application Deadline

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Overview

Your Arts + Sciences program in Abu Dhabi lasts a full semester and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in a combination of host institution courses and courses taught online through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU, with a wide range of subjects to choose from. Enhance your experience with cross-disciplinary cultural and extracurricular activities while immersing yourself in Emirati culture. Live and learn in Abu Dhabi!

Unique Experiences 

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Explore Louvre Abu Dhabi's rich collection of local and regional artifacts

to gain insight into the history, culture, and traditions of the Arabian Gulf and the Middle East

Visit the Zayed national Museum

to learn about the UAE's history before oil discover, when its people were mainly pearl divers and fishermen

Tour the newly build Abrahamic Family House

which houses the places of worship for the three monotheistic religions, where the UAE promotes peace, dialogue, and cultural understanding

Experience
  • Abu Dhabi
  • Abu Dhabi

Your Destination 

Abu Dhabi is the United Arab Emirate’s dynamic and forward-thinking capital, renowned for its groundbreaking innovations, rich cultural heritage, and cutting-edge advancements in science and technology. The city seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering stunning mosques, world-class museums, bustling souks, and futuristic skyscrapers. Whether you are studying the arts or sciences, Abu Dhabi provides top-tier academics, pioneering research opportunities, and a thriving business and tech industry. With its stunning waterfront, diverse culinary scene, and fast-paced urban development, Abu Dhabi is the perfect place to study abroad while immersing yourself in one of the world’s most innovative and globally connected cities. 

abu-dhabi-woman-weaving

Program Highlights 

  • Academic Courses: Choose from host institution courses and online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.
  • Immersive Experiences: Participate in activities, excursions, study tours, and more that showcase your host city's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
  • Cultural Projects: Volunteer with members of the local community, join university clubs to socialize with your peers, and attend local workshops and events to get to know your host city. 
abu dhabi shoreline abroad

Excursions & Activities 

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Abu Dhabi will open doors for you to explore United Arab Emirates’ rich diversity, language, culture, history, contemporary trends, vibrant art, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.   

Samples of excursions and activities: 

  • Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi that houses a rich collection of local and regional historical artifacts to fully grasp the richness of the history, culture and traditions of the Arabian Gulf and Middle East. The architectural dimensions of the building is a feat in itself. 
  • Visit the soon to be opened Zayed National Museum that depicts the history of the UAE, prior to discovering oil in the 1940s, when the inhabitants were predominantly pearl divers and fishermen, to becoming the wealthiest region with the discovery of oil, to the unification of the trucial states 52 years ago. How does the UAE plan on their sustainability once the oil dries out and/or the world finds alternative energy resources. The architectural dimensions of the building is a feat in itself.
  • Visit the newly built Abrahamic Family House that houses the worshipping houses for the three monotheistic religions. At a time of war and animosity, the UAE is creating an island of peace to enable dialogue and cultural understanding. 

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and are subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience. 

Housing
Academics

Academics

Abu Dhabi University (ADU): Abu Dhabi University (ADU) offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including law, education, engineering, business, arts, and sciences, all in English. Utilizing the best of the American, British, and Arab models of higher education while operating in a multicultural Arab country ADU is a comprehensive institution, where scholarship and applied research are valued for their promotion of the economic and social welfare of the UAE, as well as for their role in providing the most up to date knowledge and modern tools to the student body.

Arizona State University (ASU): Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of o

GPA

2.5

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

All Abu Dhabi Arts + Sciences students enroll in courses for a total of 12-18 credits per semester, choosing from:  

  • Minimum 2 Courses and Maximum 5 courses at Abu Dhabi University
  • Up to two ASU online courses (max 8 total credits)
    • Students will be limited to ASU session B in the Spring 

Program Credit

Total Credit: 12-18 U.S. semester credits/18-27 quarter credits.    

Course Credit

  • ADU Courses: Typically, 3 U.S. semester/4.5-6 quarter credits; 45-60 contact hours
  • ASU Online Courses: Typically, 3-4 U.S. semester/4.5-6 quarter credits; 45-60 contact hours    

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

Abu Dhabi University (ADU): With more than 8,000 students representing 70+ nationalities, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) fosters a vibrant and diverse academic culture, emphasizing both academic excellence and student well-being. Through a student-centric learning environment with a focus on research and innovation students are prepared to be well-rounded individuals suitable for global leadership in industry and academia. 

ASU Courses: Most ASU online courses are asynchronous. You may find yourself in classes with students from ASU, other American universities, and students from around the world. You’ll receive direct and individualized support from faculty, 100% online.  

Class Format

Abu Dhabi University (ADU) classes meet twice a week for 90 minutes per meeting.  Classess are typically interactive with a lot of in-class discussions, presentations, group work and laboratory work in accordance with the related demands of the class.  students are expected to be active learners. This involves attending classes regularly, participating in both class activities and Abu Dhabi University events, studying daily, and submitting assignments on time. 

ASU online courses meet in “sessions” that are 7.5-weeks long in the semester, and all work must be completed within the session dates regardless of when your other CIEE courses begin or end.  

Grading

Abu Dhabi University (ADU): Grading is based on a combination of class attendance, group work, presentations, midterms, and final exams. ADU uses a grading scale of A-F, and CIEE reports final grades for host institution courses using recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, following a predetermined grade conversion scale.  

ASU grading follows the same format and standards as ASU courses taught in-person. “Pass/fail” or “Audit” is not allowed for CIEE students. 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

Abu Dhabi University (ADU)

Sample course list:

  • HRM 422 - Management & Leadership Development
  • MGT 314 – Entrepreneurship Management
  • ACC 200 - Principles of Financial Accounting
  • MKT 408 - Applied Digital Marketing
  • ITE 415 - Advanced E-Commerce Application Design
  • MKT 304 – Marketing Communication
  • PHY 201 - Physics & Engineering Applications II
  • CHE 305 - Organic Chemistry
  • PHY 102 - Physics and Engineering Applications I
  • ARC 360 - Urban Planning 

CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.

CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.

Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program! 

Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO

 

Program Options
Program Options

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Internships

Discover Internship Opportunities

We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.

Explore Industry Options

Abu Dhabi's work scene is dynamic, offering a wealth of internship opportunities in finance, energy, tourism, healthcare, and technology. Both multinational corporations and fast-growing startups provide hands-on experience in an innovative and rapidly evolving economy. Abu Dhabi's diverse professional environment reflects the city's strategic focus on innovation, economic growth, and global connectivity.

Business Management and Administration Internships

Business Management and Administration

Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics in Scotland, China, and more.

A restaurant manager reviews information on a table with a chef

Hospitality and Tourism

Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.

A female intern listens to instructions from her teacher

Manufacturing

Study global supply chains, production technologies, and international business strategies in England, Singapore, and more.

And intern and a manger reviewing warehouse inventory

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics

Deepen your understanding of international trade dynamics, supply chains, and logistics in firms, agencies, and centers.

Browse Internship Opportunities

Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.

Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Spring 2026 18 weeks Start Date * End Date *

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Kwasi Gyasi-Gyamerah. Ph.D.

Regional Director of Operations for Africa and the Middle East

Born and raised in Ghana, Kwasi has a PhD from the College of Education of the University of Ghana.

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

3

Contact CIEE

We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

4

Interested in an optional internship?

After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!

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