UAE Halts State Scholarships for Students in UK Over Radicalization Concerns

The BareStory

The United Arab Emirates has ceased providing government scholarships for citizens to study at universities in the United Kingdom, citing fears regarding potential radicalization. Under the new measures, the UAE has reportedly stopped covering tuition, living stipends, and travel costs for students attending British institutions. While citizens are not banned from studying in the UK, those wishing to do so must now privately fund their education, as the state-sponsored program remains available only for universities in other countries.

The policy shift is reportedly driven by concerns that Emirati students could be exposed to the ideology of the Muslim Brotherhood while in Britain. The UAE, which officially designates the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization, has previously questioned the UK government's refusal to apply the same classification. Sources familiar with the decision alleged that Emirati officials aim to prevent students from being indoctrinated while abroad.

In response to the developments, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office issued a statement asserting that extremism has no place in society and emphasizing that the UK maintains stringent measures regarding student welfare and campus safety. A 2015 British government inquiry previously concluded that the Muslim Brotherhood was contrary to British values but stopped short of labeling it a terrorist group. Additionally, reports indicate that the UAE may cease recognizing academic qualifications from institutions removed from its accredited list.