UAE Rhodes Scholarship Recipients Amal Alrebh And Fatima AlNuaimi Heading To Oxford University In 2025

Two exceptional Emirati students have been awarded the 2025 UAE Rhodes Scholarship. They will commence their postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford in October 2026. The UAE Rhodes Scholarship Selection Committee chose them for their remarkable intellect, leadership, character, and dedication to service, aligning with the National Youth Agenda 2031.

The scholarship recipients are Amal Musa Ali Alrebh, a 22-year-old biomedical engineering student from Khalifa University, and Fatima Mohammed Abdulla AlNuaimi, a 24-year-old studying English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University. Their selection followed a rigorous process led by Omar Saif Ghobash, Advisor to the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Ghobash emphasised that these candidates embody the nation's belief in education as a driving force for both national and global advancement. He highlighted that academia and intellectual curiosity are crucial for developing societies that look towards the future.

Angela Migally, Executive Director of the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation, which funds the scholarship, stated that the programme represents the UAE's commitment to fostering environments where young people can grow and lead with integrity. She mentioned that many past scholars have returned to contribute significantly to various sectors within the UAE.

Alrebh, who was born and raised in Dubai, has concentrated her undergraduate studies on merging medicine, technology, and public policy. She has engaged in clinical oncology research and international exchanges. Her future plans include pursuing a master's in healthcare improvement and evaluation followed by a master's in medical physics at Oxford.

She expressed her view of biomedical engineering as a dedication to human welfare. Her goal is to blend advanced medical technologies with policies that enhance culturally relevant healthcare in the UAE.

AlNuaimi hails from Ajman and has focused her academic pursuits on underrepresented literature, especially emerging Gulf writing. At Oxford, she will pursue a Master of Studies in World Literature. She aims to bring regional narratives into global literary discussions while supporting academic and creative growth in the UAE.

Long-term Vision

The UAE Rhodes Scholarship was established in 2013 with support from the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation. It has enabled 26 Emiratis so far to join Oxford's international Rhodes community. This programme aligns with the UAE Centennial 2071 plan by equipping future leaders with advanced skills and values essential for contributing to long-term national progress.

With inputs from WAM