MBZUAI Research Internship Program (UGRIP) is a fully funded 4-week AI research internship held at MBZUAI’s campus in Abu Dhabi. Each summer, top undergraduates worldwide collaborate with renowned AI faculty on cutting-edge projects. The 2025 UGRIP drew 57 students from 24 countries, highlighting its global appeal. Participants gain hands-on research experience, advanced AI skills, and a strong international network. It’s an unparalleled launchpad for your future career in AI.
Internship Overview
UGRIP 2026 is hosted at MBZUAI’s campus in Abu Dhabi. This four-week summer residency (June–July 2026) immerses selected undergraduates in advanced AI research. Interns join faculty-led teams tackling projects across core AI fields like machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and robotics. Past projects have included brain-tumor detection models, interactive music generation, and dialectal Arabic machine translation, reflecting MBZUAI’s broad research scope.
Launched in 2023, UGRIP’s goal is to accelerate participants’ research careers and connect them with world-renowned AI experts. The program provides a unique opportunity to innovate on real-world problems while experiencing the UAE’s burgeoning tech ecosystem. MBZUAI fully funds the internship – covering all travel, visa, accommodation and living expenses – so students can focus entirely on research and learning.
About the Host Organization
Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) is the world’s first graduate-level AI research university. Established in 2019 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, MBZUAI is dedicated entirely to advancing artificial intelligence. It offers cutting-edge graduate programs (MSc/PhD) in AI fields like machine learning, computer vision, and NLP. MBZUAI has quickly risen in global rankings for AI research. The campus features state-of-the-art labs, and its diverse community (students from 60+ countries, 28% women in STEM) fosters an inclusive environment. As an MBZUAI intern, you benefit from this prestigious, innovation-driven setting.
Benefits of the Internship
- Full Financial Support: All expenses are covered – including a generous stipend, round-trip airfare, visa, on-campus housing, and health insurance.
- Mentorship: Work closely with MBZUAI’s world-class AI faculty and researchers, receiving guidance on your project.
- Global Networking: Collaborate with talented peers from around the world and connect with Abu Dhabi’s growing tech and research community.
- Skill Development: Build practical AI and research skills through hands-on projects, workshops, and regular seminars.
- Cultural Exposure: Participate in social and cultural activities that broaden your global perspective, from UAE cultural tours to networking events.
- Access to Facilities: Utilize MBZUAI’s cutting-edge AI labs and computing resources to support your research work.
Eligibility Criteria of MBZUAI Research Internship
- Academic Standing: Final-year or penultimate-year undergraduate student in a STEM discipline (e.g. computer science, engineering, mathematics).
- Academic Performance: Strong academic record (typically GPA ≥ 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, or equivalent).
- Field of Study: Background or keen interest in AI-related areas (machine learning, robotics, NLP, etc.) is expected.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency in English (TOEFL iBT ≥ 90, IELTS Academic ≥ 6.5, or an equivalent score).
- Nationality: Open to applicants of all nationalities (international students welcome).
- Availability: Able to participate full-time for the entire internship period (June–July 2026).
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Prepare Documents: Collect your enrollment letter, academic transcripts, CV/resume, passport copy, and a Statement of Purpose (detailing your background, achievements, and motivations). Ensure all documents are in English and officially stamped as needed.
- Submit Online (Jan 1 – Feb 28, 2026): Complete the official UGRIP application form on MBZUAI’s website. The portal opens on January 1, 2026 (8 a.m. GST) and closes on February 28, 2026 (5 p.m. GST). Upload all required documents and fill out any questionnaires.
- Review Period: Once submitted, applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis during the admission cycle. Ensure your application is complete to avoid delays.
- Admission Decision: MBZUAI will notify applicants of their admission decision by April 1, 2026 (11 p.m. GST). If accepted, you will receive instructions on next steps.
Application Deadline
Applications for UGRIP 2026 close on February 28, 2026 (5 p.m. GST). Mark this date in your calendar – late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted. Make sure to submit all materials before the deadline via the official MBZUAI Research Internship (UGRIP) portal.
Conclusion
MBZUAI’s UGRIP 2026 offers a rare, fully supported chance to immerse yourself in real-world AI research. If you’re a motivated STEM undergrad with the drive to excel in AI, don’t miss this opportunity. Prepare your application early, highlight your achievements, and apply through the official MBZUAI Research Internship UGRIP webpage. Good luck, and feel free to share this opportunity with friends who might benefit!
FAQs
What is MBZUAI’s UGRIP internship?
MBZUAI UGRIP is a fully funded 4-week AI research internship program for undergraduates at the Mohamed bin Zayed University of AI in Abu Dhabi.
Who can apply for UGRIP 2026?
Final-year or second-last-year students in STEM fields (CS, engineering, math, etc.) with strong grades (≈3.5+ GPA) are eligible. Applicants of any nationality are welcome.
What are the benefits of MBZUAI UGRIP?
All expenses are covered (stipend, accommodation, visa, travel, insurance). You also gain mentorship from AI faculty, hands-on research experience, global networking, and cultural experiences.
When is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline for UGRIP 2026 is February 28, 2026 (5 p.m. GST).
Is MBZUAI UGRIP fully funded?
Yes. UGRIP is fully funded – it includes a stipend, round-trip airfare, visa, on-campus housing, health insurance, and more.
Where can I find the application?
Submit your application on the official MBZUAI website at mbzuai.ac.ae/ugrip during the application window.
