Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 48 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting August 2027
- Apply before Dec 2026
More details
- 15th Nov: Priority deadline.
- 15th Dec: Final deadline.
- Applying by the priority deadline is strongly encouraged as they will be reviewed first.
Language
English
TOEFL iBT: 90
IELTS: 6.5
Credits
60 alternative credits
Delivered
On Campus
Campus Location
- Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Disciplines
- Robotics
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
Overview
As a research-oriented degree, the Ph.D. in Robotics from Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence focuses on human-centered and autonomous robotics research and prepares exceptional students for careers at the cutting edge of academia, industry, and government. Our world-leading robotics researchers, students and industry partners collaborate to advance discoveries in various aspects of robotics, such as perception and applied machine learning, human-robot interaction, cognitive and soft robotics, and swarm intelligence. Ph.D. students in Robotics enjoy the unique experience of conducting world-class research with the state-of-the-art equipment and under the guidance of internationally renowned experts.
Career
AI is permeating every industry. At recent employer engagement events at MBZUAI, there has been representation from multiples sectors including (but not limited to):
- Aviation, consultancy, education, energy, finance, government entities, healthcare, media, oil and gas, security and defense, research institutes, retail, telecommunications, transportation and logistics, and startups.
Recent job opportunities advertised via the MBZUAI Student Careers Portal include (but not limited to):
- AI solution architect, AI solution engineer, algorithmic engineer, data analyst, data engineer, data scientist, data strategy consultant, full stack software engineer, full stack web developer, predictive analytics researcher, and senior data scientist – consultant.
Other career opportunities could include (but not limited to):
- Applied scientist, analytics engineer, augmented/virtual reality, autonomous cars, biometrics and forensics, chief data officer, data platform leadership, data journalist, data and AI technical sales specialist, growth analytics / engineers, manager: AI and cloud services planning, machine learning engineers, product manager: AI and data analytics, product data scientist, product analyst, remote sensing, research assistants, security and surveillance, senior software engineer, and VP data.
Visa Opportunities for Graduates
Outstanding graduates from MBZUAI are eligible to apply for a 10-year golden visa in UAE, which will enable themselves and their family members to work and live in UAE with corresponding benefits.
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- Advanced Robotics Motion Planning
- Advanced Topics in Robotics: Multi-Robot Systems
- Advanced Humanoid Robotics
- Vision for Autonomous Robotics
- 3D Geometry Processing
- Deep Learning for Language Processing
Admission requirements
Academic requirements
GPA: Required
English requirements
TOEFL iBT: 90
OR
IELTS: 6.5
Other requirements
General requirements
- MBZUAI accepts applicants who hold a completed degree in a STEM field such as computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, mathematics, physics, or other relevant science or engineering major that demonstrates academic distinction in a discipline appropriate for the doctoral degree – either:
- Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent, or Master's degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent.
- English language proficiency
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
- Statement of purpose
- Research statement
- Referee recommendation
- Screening exam
- Admission interview
Fees and funding
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are shown in AUD and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.
International
Applies to you. Non-residents. Free
Domestic
Applies to you. Citizens or residents. Free
Additional Details
- Full scholarship including 100% tuition fees for international students.
Living costs
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
1,935-3,329 AUD / month
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
All admitted students are granted upon acceptance the privilege to complete their study with a full scholarship including 100% tuition, a monthly stipend and many more benefits. However, and in order to maintain their scholarships, stipends and other benefits, students are expected to maintain high academic standing, comply with the university code of conduct and fulfill certain requirements during their study tenure.