MUDHI ALOBTHANI (ABU DHABI)
Many Grade 12 students in the UAE see no reason to look abroad for higher education, confident that the country's universities can prepare them well for the future.
They cite top-notch academic programmes and a growing global reputation as key reasons to stay home, alongside the pull of family and the comfort of a familiar environment.
"The UAE offers strong academic opportunities, and at the same time I can stay close to my family and focus on building my future in a comfortable environment," said Noora Alhosani, a graduating student at Al Riyadh School who plans to attend Zayed University.
Students' confidence is backed by the numbers. Six UAE universities placed among the top 500 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026, and nine feature in the top 25 of the QS Arab University Rankings.
Meera Theyab Alobthani, a student at Al Reyada School, has narrowed her choices to Zayed University and Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT). She is drawn to Zayed University's campus facilities and HCT's practical approach that relies less on paper exams.
Proximity to family, however, remains the priority for her. "I prefer a familiar, supportive environment over living alone abroad," she said.
Alobthani expects university life to offer more room to breathe. "I expect more flexibility and free time than school, and UAE universities deliver that through their active campus life and events."
For Bader Salem, a student at International Academic School with his sights set on Emirates Aviation Academy, career goals are the main driver. "I want to become a pilot, so I am looking for a university with strong aviation programmes," he said. Academic quality and scholarships factor in, too. "I want a respected degree, and scholarships help reduce the cost."
Staying local, he added, makes the journey easier. "Being close to my family gives me support and makes it easier to focus."