Student Life

Overview

At MBZUAI, education extends beyond the classroom. The Office of Undergraduate Student Life is dedicated to fostering a vibrant, inclusive student experience—supporting each learner’s academic journey, personal growth, and future aspirations.

We offer a holistic range of programs and services designed to help students thrive in all aspects of university life. From student activities and leadership development to housing, wellbeing, and career support, our team is here to ensure that every student has the opportunity to connect, lead, and excel.

Whether through campus events, student clubs, athletic opportunities, or innovation-focused programming, students are encouraged to engage deeply with their community and explore new interests. These experiences build lifelong skills and shape the socially responsible, forward-thinking leaders the world needs.

Rooted in the university’s mission to build knowledge for service, our work is guided by values of inclusion, integrity, and impact. We are proud to support a student experience that reflects the excellence and ambition of MBZUAI.

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Student Engagement

Health and Wellbeing

Residential Services

At MBZUAI, Student Engagement is about more than where you live or what you study—it’s about who you become. Our campus is home to a diverse, passionate community where students are empowered to lead, create, and connect through a range of co-curricular and extracurricular experiences. Whether you’re launching a student initiative, competing in a hackathon, or celebrating traditions, your time outside the classroom is a vital part of your personal and professional journey.

The Student Life team, provides the structure, resources, and support you need to make the most of your university experience.

Student Clubs & Organizations

Student-led clubs are a core part of campus life. Student clubs are a direct representative of the student pulse and are guided by the students. Whether you're interested in AI research, community service, entrepreneurship, cultural representation, or the arts, you'll find space to build something meaningful. Every club is student-initiated, with guidance from Student Life and recognition through the Student Government. These groups host activities, represent diverse interests, and contribute to a vibrant campus culture.

Student Government

The Undergraduate Student Government (UGSG) represents the voice of the student body and plays a vital role in shaping the student experience at MBZUAI. Elected by students and supported by Student Life, UGSG leads initiatives, allocates funding to student clubs, advocates for student needs, and builds community through events and outreach. Leadership training and guidance ensure that all members are equipped to make a meaningful impact.

Campus Events & Celebrations

From Orientation Week to UAE National Day and International Night, MBZUAI hosts a wide range of events that bring students together and celebrate our diverse, dynamic community. Events are led by students with planning support from the Student Life team. All activities adhere to MBZUAI's safety and conduct policies, ensuring a respectful and inclusive experience for all.

Athletics, Fitness & Recreation

Staying active is easy with MBZUAI's modern on-campus facilities, which include a fully equipped gym, and multi-use sports areas. You can represent MBZUAI competitively in intercollegiate sports or play a pick-up game in our intramural leagues. Whether you're training, trying a new sport, or just looking to unwind, you'll find opportunities for recreation, wellness, and fun alongside your academic goals.

Cultural Immersion

At MBZUAI, we see cultural exploration as a vital part of university life. Through curated off-campus trips and immersive experiences, the university offers students the chance to discover the UAE's rich traditions and dynamic modern culture. From exploring renowned museums and heritage sites to participating in local festivals and events, these excursions allow students to deepen their understanding of the country they now call home.

Get Involved

Want to start a new club? Run for student government? Host a cultural event or launch a project? We're here to support your ideas. Connect with the Undergraduate Student Life team to explore how you can make your mark at MBZUAI.

At MBZUAI, discover a holistic approach to living better. From mental wellness to physical fitness, staying connected with community, financial empowerment and self-care, our approach to philosophy, Evolve helps you create sustainable habits for a healthier, happier you.

The Undergraduate Student Life team offers students access to professional, confidential support through individual counseling, wellbeing workshops, and mental health awareness initiatives. Whether you’re navigating academic stress, adjusting to life away from home, or facing personal difficulties, our team is here to listen, guide, and help you build the tools for resilience and success.

Counseling services are free, private, and available to all undergraduate students. Appointments can be scheduled directly with our team.

How We Support You

One-on-one confidential counseling sessions
Mental health check-ins and referrals
Stress and time management workshops
Peer support and community wellbeing initiatives
Crisis support and emergency response coordination
Preventive education and mental health resources
Support with accessibility-based accommodations for medical, psychological, or learning needs

Your time at MBZUAI should be one of growth, purpose, and possibility—and we’re here to make sure you feel balanced, supported, and heard every step of the way.

Your residence isn’t just a place to sleep, it’s where community begins. Living on campus is an essential part of the undergraduate experience, offering opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow in a supportive, inclusive environment.

Our residential life program is designed to make you feel at home from day one. Whether you’re building friendships in your suite, joining a late-night study session, or sharing a meal with peers, campus living is where lasting memories are made.

All undergraduate students are housed in modern, fully furnished double rooms, with thoughtfully designed amenities to support both academic focus and personal comfort.

Each room includes:

Two beds, desks, chairs, and wardrobes
A shared bathroom
A kitchenette with refrigerator, microwave, cooking plate, and starter cutlery set
Linens and towels provided upon arrival
High-speed Wi-Fi and centralized air conditioning

Shared laundry facilities, common lounges, and multipurpose areas are available throughout the residence halls, encouraging relaxation, community building, and collaborative living.

Residential Life Support & Processes

Our team manages the housing assignment process, taking into account lifestyle preferences and roommate preferences. Room placements prioritize compatibility and community wellbeing. Housing policies and safety protocols are introduced during Orientation and outlined in the Student Handbook. Students are expected to maintain respectful and responsible conduct in all shared spaces and are supported in developing positive habits for community living.

Each residence hall is supported by a trained team of Resident Life Assistants (RLAs,) senior students who serve as peer mentors, community builders, and first points of contact for concerns or questions. RLAs organize floor events, offer guidance on navigating student life, and are trained to provide peer support and referrals when needed.

Our campus is located in Masdar City, which offers everything you need within easy reach from dining, groceries, and gyms to healthcare and green spaces. Designed for convenience and sustainability, it’s a self-contained community where daily life is effortless. With walkable pathways, electric transport, and key services nearby, you’ll find comfort and access right outside your door.