Student life

We recognize the importance of empowering our students inside and outside of the classroom. Our Student Life team is dedicated to providing the kind of inclusive and enriching experiences that support the academic, personal, and professional growth of every student. Discover what you can expect from life at MBZUAI.

Athletics

For many of our students, a fun and active campus lifestyle is built on athletics, and MBZUAI provides a number of dedicated spaces to train, play, and relax.

Our recreational offerings include fitness classes and wellness programs, alongside male and female gyms and a swimming pool in our Multi-Use Hall (MUH). The MUH also plays host to our basketball and volleyball practices, as well as recreational badminton and table tennis, PlayStations, foosball, and a pool table.

Students can even represent MBZUAI in intercollegiate competitions – Go Dugongs! – or take part in intramural sports on campus.

Student clubs

Student clubs are a great way to pursue interests, develop connections, and grow leadership skills at MBZUAI. We offer a vast array of options, including popular clubs such as chess, rock climbing, debate, the Emirati cultural club, and Consulting and Finance.

Can’t find a club that catches your interest? We encourage you to connect with your peers and propose your own.

Want to represent the voices of the larger community and help to enhance the student experience? The Student Government provides an opportunity to elevate your advocacy, service, and leadership capabilities to new heights.

Wellness and wellbeing

We are committed to creating a safe and healthy environment for every member of the MBZUAI community. Our Wellbeing Service team works alongside the broader student support network to make sure you always have access to the right people and resources.

Counseling and wellbeing support
The MBZUAI Counseling and Wellbeing Service is available to all students throughout the semester – and always confidential. Whether you’re navigating the transition to university life, managing academic pressures, or going through something more personal, our counseling team can support you.
Events and programming
Wellbeing at MBZUAI is structured around eight domains: physical, emotional, social, spiritual, occupational, financial, intellectual, and environmental.

Throughout the year, the wellbeing team runs programs and initiatives including peer connection groups such as Circle of Strength, Progressive Muscle Relaxation sessions, and awareness campaigns on topics such as sleep and nutrition. We also partner with external organizations to bring in additional resources and expertise. And a Student Wellbeing Toolkit developed exclusively for MBZUAI students is available as an ongoing resource.
Emergency and crisis support
If you are in immediate distress, support is available around the clock:
- 24/7 Wellbeing Support accessible via Microsoft Teams
- 24/7 on-campus First Aid Clinic
- Emergency line staffed outside of work hours
Information about dedicated wellbeing resources is shared regularly throughout each semester.
Health insurance
All students receive health insurance throughout their academic journey, covering access to select off-campus medical providers. The Student Life team will guide you through activating your coverage when you arrive.
Learning support and accommodations
If you have a learning difference, disability, or any condition that may affect your academic experience, the University will work with you to put the right accommodations in place. Reach out early so support can be arranged before your studies begin.

Signature events

Your academic journey is important at MBZUAI. But from your first day on campus, you’ll discover that student life is about so much more.

Our calendar is full of opportunities to build new connections and contribute to the growth of our vibrant and inclusive community. Get ready to take part in anything from hackathons and industry events to highly-anticipated celebrations such as Spirit Day and International Day.

Student housing

We want MBZUAI to feel like your home away from home – a place to learn, immerse yourself in campus life, and build relationships that will last a lifetime. Our Residential Life Assistants are on hand at all times to ensure you are safe, well, and have what you need while living in on-campus accommodation. See the housing page for more information.

Financial aid

We can provide advice on the full spectrum of your financial life, including how to obtain and retain your scholarship and all aspects of scholarship benefits.

Get more information on the scholarships offered by the University via Admissions.

Meet our team

We understand that the things you do outside the classroom are just as essential to your academic journey and personal growth. Our Student Life team has the resources, structure, and support you need to get the most out of your university experience – and they’re ready to help. Get to know the team.