NYU Abu Dhabi Welcomes Class Of 2029 With Highest Emirati Enrollment To Date

NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) has welcomed its Class of 2029, a diverse group of students from over 80 countries. This year is significant for the university and UAE's higher education sector as Emirati undergraduate enrollment has reached an all-time high. This increase highlights NYUAD's dedication to supporting the UAE's vision of developing future-ready leaders.

The Class of 2029 not only brings varied academic interests but also enriches the university’s international community in Abu Dhabi. The Emirati student representation has grown steadily, now making up 26 percent of undergraduates. This reflects NYUAD's ongoing commitment to fostering local talent and contributing to national goals.

Fatma Abdulla, Senior Associate Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice Provost for Strategy and Planning, expressed pride in NYUAD’s role in advancing the UAE’s vision. She stated, "As we mark the UAE’s 54th National Day, I am deeply proud of NYU Abu Dhabi’s role in advancing the nation’s vision. Our campus has become a hub for world-class research, driving innovation in areas critical to the UAE’s future, from sustainability and technology to culture and public health."

The arrival of this new class coincides with a period of national pride as the UAE continues to pursue its educational and innovation objectives. The growing number of Emirati students at NYUAD underscores these ambitions and highlights the university's role in nurturing talent capable of making an impact both locally and globally.

Sehamuddin Galadari, Managing Director of the NYUAD Research Institute and Professor of Biology, noted that NYUAD is actively contributing to the UAE's future aspirations through capacity building and advanced research. He said, "NYUAD is consistently contributing to the UAE goals and its aspirations for the future; with contributions to capacity building, advanced world class research, as well as, research on issues pertinent to the UAE- research of local relevance and with global impact- is indeed steering the nation’s research endeavour to great heights."

Hoor Ahli, a senior majoring in Social Research and Public Policy and President of the UAE Majlis, shared her experience at NYUAD: "NYUAD is a space where culture and curiosity coexist. Through the UAE Majlis, I’ve found a way to connect both worlds and share what makes the UAE so special with the wider NYU community." Her role involves helping students experience her cultural background and values.

This year's intake at NYU Abu Dhabi marks a significant moment for both the institution and its students. As they embark on their academic journey, they contribute to a vibrant community that reflects global diversity while embracing local heritage. The university continues to play a pivotal role in shaping leaders who will drive progress within the UAE and beyond.

With inputs from WAM