Gulf News Edufair returns to Abu Dhabi with expanded academic and career pathways

After drawing more than 8,000 visitors across its May and October editions last year, Gulf News Edufair returns to Abu Dhabi on May 16-17 at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche, bringing together a broader mix of universities and education providers.

More than 25 higher education institutions, career service providers and study abroad specialists from the UAE and overseas are set to participate, highlighting sustained demand for direct engagement between students, families and academic institutions.

What to expect

Participating universities will present detailed information on programmes, admission requirements, tuition fees and scholarships. Admissions teams will be available for on-the-spot application reviews, feedback and, in some cases, conditional offers.

Several institutions are also introducing Edufair-specific grants, fee waivers and discounts for eligible students.

“The last two iterations of Edufair garnered overwhelming response from students and parents in Abu Dhabi, with hundreds attending to explore courses, scholarships and career guidance,” says David George, Director - GN Media, Creative Content & Design.

“As career pathways evolve, selecting the right course has become more complex. Edufair Abu Dhabi brings universities and career experts together to help students assess their options and plan ahead.”

Broad academic exposure

 For families in Abu Dhabi, the event offers a practical alternative to visiting multiple campuses across the emirates, bringing a wide range of study options into a single venue. Students can explore disciplines spanning robotics, artificial intelligence and aerospace engineering to forensic science, business, economics, media studies, tourism management and sustainable architecture.

The event also reflects growing interest in continuous learning, with executive education and professional certification providers catering to graduates and mid-career professionals looking to upskill or diversify their expertise.

Education counsellors will also be present to advise on how academic choices align with emerging career opportunities.

Study abroad and post-study pathways

International education remains a strong focus of Edufair Abu Dhabi. Consultants will showcase universities from the US, Canada, Europe and Asia, offering guidance on degree pathways, post-study work options, visa processes and scholarships.

Expert-led sessions

 Alongside the exhibition, Edufair will host panel discussions, presentations and fireside chats featuring education leaders and career specialists. Topics will include career planning, entrepreneurship, overseas education and strategies for gaining admission to competitive universities.

“Edufair has helped hundreds of students identify courses and secure placements in leading universities in the UAE and abroad,” says Tina Bhakthavalsalan, Director - GN Media Events & Special Features.

 “This edition will offer deeper engagement for visitors, while enabling exhibitors to connect directly with students from some of Abu Dhabi’s top schools.”

The event is free to attend, with prior registration required. For more information visit https://events.gulfnews.com/GulfNewsEdufairAbuDhabi2026#/