The role of foreign scholarships in shaping the foreign relations of the United Arab Emirates

This study examines the influence of foreign scholarships on the international relations of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE has been working to enhance its global diplomatic presence, particularly by offering foreign scholarships aimed at fostering stronger international ties and improving its soft image. However, the country continues to face challenges in its international relations, including geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, and regional security uncertainties, all of which affect its diplomatic engagements. Foreign scholarships are viewed as a strategic tool for developing human capital and advancing the UAE's international relationships. The primary objectives of this research are to evaluate how the selection of scholarship candidates, the design of university study programs, and the choice of destination countries influence the UAE’s foreign policy. Building on these objectives, the study seeks to determine the effectiveness of these scholarships in improving diplomatic relations and strengthening the UAE’s international image. The research adopts a quantitative approach, using questionnaires distributed to 357 UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs employees involved in international scholarship administration, as well as scholarship program personnel who oversee Emirati students abroad. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data and to assess the role of foreign scholarships in promoting international cooperation and cultural exchange. The findings indicate that foreign scholarships contribute positively to the UAE’s international relations by building networks of educated professionals who strengthen ties between the UAE and host countries. The study also underscores the importance of effective candidate selection and well-designed study programs in maximizing the diplomatic benefits of these scholarships. The implications of this research are significant for policymakers. The study recommends improving scholarship policies and ensuring that returning students are effectively integrated into the workforce, thereby contributing to national development and reinforcing international relations. Overall, the findings provide valuable insights into how foreign scholarships can be leveraged as a diplomatic tool