A Guide to Life at NYU Abu Dhabi for Parents and Families

As the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is an international crossroads of politics, culture, and commerce. The city offers students a variety of unique resources and opportunities, all easily accessible from NYU Abu Dhabi thanks to reliable public and campus transportation options. Known as one of the safest cities in the world, Abu Dhabi is an ideal place to explore. Whether your child is interested in gaining a better understanding of the city’s history and culture or learning through a specialized internship, there’s so much to discover.

“It’s so easy to find your way around Abu Dhabi,” says Angelina Gerlich, a Social Research and Public Policy major. “The NYU Abu Dhabi shuttles take you to all the key places in the city. But the public buses and taxis are affordable and easy to access, too.”

NYU Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island campus is truly one of a kind. It spans nearly 40 acres and boasts state-of-the-art research labs, residences, and dining halls. Additionally, there are world-class indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, a dynamic arts center, a studio for engineering design, and so much more. Campus life at NYU Abu Dhabi centers on community—your child will have the chance to join one of the most diverse student bodies in the world. Plus, with more than 50 student interest groups, a vibrant residence hall experience, and a rigorous academic schedule, you won’t have to worry about them getting bored.

“As a parent, I would endorse NYU Abu Dhabi rather strongly,” says Pooja Kapoor, from New Delhi, India. Her son, Harsh Kapoor, is majoring in Business, Organizations and Society at NYU Abu Dhabi. “The campus gives you the New York experience at a lesser distance and price. The experience of visiting different countries is amazing. So, if you are looking for a good education, excellent facilities and international exposure as well as awesome sports, debate, and other cocurricular activities for your child, then you should definitely route yourself to NYU Abu Dhabi.”

Moreover, your child will learn all about student life here during our Candidate Weekend, a unique opportunity to experience life as an NYU Abu Dhabi student. It’s a time for your child to get to know NYU Abu Dhabi—and for us to get to know them.

In addition to NYU Abu Dhabi, NYU’s global network includes study abroad opportunities in 15 different locations around the world. In fact, a key part of NYU Abu Dhabi’s culture centers on international exploration. One of the most popular ways students do this is through January Term courses, 10-day periods of immersive, experiential learning. (You can find more J Term examples here!) When NYU Abu Dhabi students bridge their academic interests with NYU’s global network, anything is possible.

“In my last J Term class, Media and Mass Atrocities in Africa, we traveled to Rwanda,” shares Angelina. “I had the opportunity to speak to some of the biggest journalists and radio broadcast agencies in the country. Being able to learn about something in the classroom and then actually go and experience it in real life is an incredible experience.”

Additionally, NYU’s global network opens career opportunities for your child almost anywhere in the world. Our graduates are global ambassadors, Broadway stars, and leaders in their fields. Not only will your child be academically prepared for their future career, but they’ll gain access to networks that will help them thrive professionally.

Even if they’re studying in a different time zone, you will continue to support your child at NYU Abu Dhabi. In fact, we’ve found that our students flourish when we work together with families. On campus we focus on students’ physical health and mental well-being, connecting students with health professionals for any need. Your child will also have access to resident assistants for day-to-day support, as well as career counselors, academic advisers, and financial advisers.

“Knowing that your child is supported being so far from home is of the utmost importance,” says Jessica Bowers Chukwu. She’s the associate director of student support coaching at NYU Abu Dhabi. “There are so many useful resources at your child’s disposal. I encourage parents to support their children in utilizing these resources. If they are ever confused about where to go or how to access the resources, they only need to ask. There’s a coordinated ecosystem of support ready, and we’re excited to be here for them.”

While we keep your child’s health, safety, and well-being top of mind on campus, your support goes a long way. Here are a few simple yet impactful ways to stay connected from afar:

• Set a clock at home to reflect the time in Abu Dhabi.
• Keep an eye on the NYU Abu Dhabi academic calendar so you know important dates, holidays, and exam periods.
• Send encouraging texts: Even if your child doesn’t respond right away, they’ll know you’re thinking about them.

You’ve learned about Abu Dhabi, campus life, and what your child can expect. Next step: Apply! The Regular Decision application deadline is January 5. And if you’re curious about life after NYU Abu Dhabi, take a look at our Life Beyond Saadiyat report on the Class of 2024. NYU Abu Dhabi alumni are making an impact around the world.

“We are incredibly proud to see Nicole becoming more independent and responsible in her daily academic life,” conclude Liz and Roy. “Her confidence has grown. Her language skills have improved. And she has shown great strength and adaptability in facing new environments. Watching her grow in this way has been very inspiring for us as parents.”

We hope this guide has been helpful as you prepare for this next step in your child’s educational journey. If you have additional questions or would like to talk to an admissions counselor, you can email us at [email protected] or call us at +971 2 628 5511.