The UAE has taken a strong step byremoving British universities from its approved listof institutions eligible for government scholarships and official degree recognition. The decision, though made in mid-2025, became widely known after reports inThe Financial TimesandThe Times.
UAE officials say they fear Emirati students could beexposed to Islamist influenceat UK campuses, particularly from groups linked to theMuslim Brotherhood, which the UAE classifies as aterrorist organisation. Britain, however, has refused to ban the group, arguing that there is no legal basis to do so.
When British officials questioned why UK universities were excluded, Emirati officials were blunt:
“They don’t want their kids to be radicalised on campus.”
The issue has become more sensitive following theIsrael–Hamas war, which triggered increased political activism and protests on university campuses across the UK.
The decision has already had visible consequences:
UK student visas for Emiratis dropped 27% by September 2025
Compared to 2022, the fall isover 55%
Government-funded students are no longer allowed to choose UK universities
Wealthier families can still send students privately, butUK degrees may no longer be recognised in the UAE
This makes British qualificationsless valuablefor Emirati students returning home.
The UAE views theMuslim Brotherhoodas a major threat to its political system. It has jailed suspected members, supported Egypt’s military takeover of the Brotherhood-linked government in 2013, and actively opposes the group across the Middle East.
Although a UK government review in 2015 criticised the Brotherhood’s ideology, it didnotrecommend a ban, which remains a major point of disagreement with the UAE.
The scholarship ban is the latest in a series of tensions, including:
Disputes over media ownership
Allegations over Sudan
Financial investigations involvingManchester City
Political links involving UK leaders and UAE officials
Despite diplomatic statements saying relations remain strong, the education row highlights a growingtrust gapbetween the two allies.
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