Dubai Crown Prince Applauds First Scholars Of Hamdan Bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, congratulated the first cohort of scholars selected for the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme in its inaugural year. H.H. emphasised that the programme embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to invest in people to achieve real and sustainable development, aligning with the goals of the Dubai Social Agenda 33.

During an orientation session at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan praised Emirati students chosen for the 2024-25 academic year under this scholarship programme. "Today marks the beginning of a new journey for a group of exceptional students who will pursue their higher education at world-renowned universities through the Hamdan bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme, guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Driven by the ambition and dedication of our students, Dubai continues to shape its future by nurturing and investing in exceptional talent," His Highness said.

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The scholarship programme aims to empower exceptional Emirati talent, build their capabilities, and enhance their leadership skills. Aisha Miran, who chairs the steering committee, stated: "Guided by the vision and directives of our leadership, and as part of the Dubai Plan and its economic and social agendas, the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme aims to empower exceptional Emirati talent, build their capabilities, and enhance their leadership skills." She added that this cohort’s diverse academic specialisations reflect their commitment to excellence.

The event also honoured 40 top-performing high school graduates from both public and private schools across various curricula under the Top Achievers programme. Additionally, it celebrated the 2024 graduating class of the Ruler’s Court Higher Education Scholarship. This scholarship recognises outstanding Emirati high school graduates across various academic disciplines.

Sheikh Hamdan expressed confidence in these scholars' potential to contribute significantly to Dubai’s growth. "After meeting with the scholars and the 2023-24 cohort of Emirati Top Achievers," he said, "I am confident that the future of our emirate is in good hands. The dreams and aspirations of our scholars align with Dubai’s bold vision." He assured that every student would receive necessary support throughout their educational journey.

The steering committee oversees various aspects including setting a unified scholarship policy for Dubai. It also establishes subcommittees with clear mandates and operational processes. Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi noted: "The launch of this programme marks a significant step in shaping the future of Emirati youth." He emphasised their commitment to supporting students’ development across all sectors.

Scholarship Details

A total of 321 students applied for this scholarship in its first year. The steering committee selected scholars based on academic performance, university rankings, and alignment with Dubai’s future goals. These students will attend 30 universities globally pursuing 35 disciplines including engineering, IT, business administration, health sciences, and arts.

Two partnerships were announced during this event. One is between Hamdan Bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme and Ministry of Education to provide financial services abroad. The other partnership with IDP will offer university admission services for those wishing to study overseas.

Encouragement from Leadership

Addressing students directly during his speech at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Dubai today Sheikh Hamdan encouraged them: "I encourage you to keep pursuing knowledge and lifelong learning to build your capacities." He also met parents praising their efforts raising ambitious young Emiratis capable competing globally shaping UAE’s future.

This initiative aligns with Dubai Social Agenda 33 providing AED 1.1 billion endowment offering 100 scholarships annually covering tuition fees living expenses travel costs outstanding Emirati students accepted top universities worldwide must hold family book from Dubai not receive other scholarships.

The event was attended by notable figures including Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani Director General H.H The Dubai Ruler’s Court; Abdullah Mohammed Al Basti Secretary General Executive Council; Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi Director General Human Resources Department; Aisha Miran Director General Knowledge Human Development Authority (KHDA).

This scholarship programme is set to develop future leaders contributing comprehensively towards city’s development ensuring every student receives guidance needed excel every step.

With inputs from WAM