As the world continues to evolve, so do university curricula. Computer science is one of the fastest-changing disciplines, and universities must adapt quickly to new developments in computing. The United Arab Emirates has kept pace by building strong computer science and computing-related programs.
The United Arab Emirates has long pursued international recognition beyond business and commerce, including through higher education. Universities in the UAE now offer internationally oriented degree programs that prepare graduates for careers and further study in the UAE and abroad.
If you are looking for the best computer science programs the UAE has to offer, you are in the right place. Let us guide you with our list of the UAE’s top universities to study computer science. Read on below to find out more!
Top Schools Offering Computer Science in UAE
1. United Arab Emirates University
United Arab Emirates University is the UAE’s first comprehensive national university and one of the country’s recognized institutions for computer science and computing. It is also one of the UAE’s leading public universities in major international rankings.
The Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering facilitates computer science and software engineering programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Its offerings include a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, a Master of Science in Software Engineering, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Informatics and Computing.
The College of Information Technology participates in research across fields such as data science, communications networks, information security and privacy, microelectronics, energy, artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, and connected autonomous systems.
2. Khalifa University
Khalifa University is one of the UAE’s strongest institutions for science and technology and is currently the UAE’s highest-ranked university in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
The Department of Computer Science at Khalifa University offers a curriculum that spans major areas of computer science, with special emphasis on artificial intelligence, data science, intelligent and secure digital systems, and software engineering. The department prepares students for careers in technology, academia, and research.
Khalifa University offers bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. options in computer science. Students can expect to study and research areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data systems, software engineering, human-computer interaction, high-performance computing, and computer networks.
3. University of Sharjah
The University of Sharjah is a strong option for computer science in the UAE, with recognized performance in global subject rankings. Its College of Computing and Informatics offers computer science programs through the Department of Computer Science.
The University of Sharjah offers computer science degree programs that prepare students for professional work and higher studies. The Department of Computer Science offers bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. programs in computer science and related areas, including artificial intelligence and data science.
Students are exposed to foundational computer science courses as well as specialized topics such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, information security, machine learning, computer vision, data mining, networks, robotics, and software engineering. These skills can support a wide range of careers in the technology sector and in industries that rely on computing.
4. American University of Sharjah
- Study Program
- Degree/s Offered: Bachelor’s in Computer Science; related Master’s programs
American University of Sharjah is a highly international university and is ranked among the top five universities worldwide for the percentage of international students in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024. AUS is also ranked among the top five universities in the UAE and among the top 400 globally for computer science and information systems in the 2026 QS subject rankings.
The Department of Computer Science and Engineering facilitates the training and education of current and prospective computer science students. At the undergraduate level, its Bachelor of Science in Computer Science focuses on software, internet technologies, and programming. The department also offers related graduate options, including a Master of Science in Machine Learning.
The curriculum is continuously upgraded to meet the needs of a changing world, with current emphasis on artificial intelligence, data science, and smart cities. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is also accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.
5. New York University Abu Dhabi
- Study Program
- Degree/s Offered: Bachelor’s, Ph.D.; related Master’s in Data Science and AI
Rounding out our list is New York University Abu Dhabi. One of NYU’s three degree-granting campuses, it forms part of NYU’s global network alongside NYU New York and NYU Shanghai. Computer science is one of NYU Abu Dhabi’s academic programs in the Science Division.
New York University Abu Dhabi supports computer science students through undergraduate study, faculty research, and Ph.D. pathways connected to NYU’s global academic network. The Computer Science Program trains students in the fundamental principles of computer science and related aspects of technology.
Starting in Fall 2026, the NYU Abu Dhabi Global PhD Student Fellowship in Computer Science will be offered as part of New York University’s single Computer Science Ph.D. program. NYU Abu Dhabi also offers a related MSc in Interdisciplinary Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. Research strengths include algorithms, machine learning, natural language and speech processing, networking, distributed systems, user interfaces, vision, data science, and artificial intelligence.
We hope this university listing helped you find the right educational institution for you. Whichever university you choose, each offers opportunities to develop a global perspective. The international population among students and faculty can also provide a well-rounded view of computer science from different cultural and professional contexts.
Accredited and well-structured degree programs can strengthen your preparation for graduate study and the workforce. When choosing a university, check each program’s current curriculum, accreditation, admission requirements, tuition, and available scholarships before applying.
We hope this article on the Best Universities for Computer Science in the UAE was helpful. Make sure to also check out the Study in UAE and Available Computer Science Programs for International Students pages for more informative articles.
