NYU Abu Dhabi opens applications for Arab World Humanities Fellowship

The NYU Abu Dhabi Humanities Research Fellowship for the Study of the Arab World (HRF) is now accepting applications for the 2026–27 academic year.

Contents

Aim Benefits Who can apply Requirements Deadline

This residential postdoctoral programme offers early-career scholars the opportunity to engage with NYUAD’s vibrant research community on the Saadiyat campus.

Aim

The fellowship supports humanities research related to the Arab world—its histories, literatures, artistic traditions and broader cultural networks.

Interdisciplinary proposals are encouraged, particularly those that intersect with ongoing work within NYUAD’s Arts and Humanities or Social Sciences divisions.

The HRF aims to amplify emerging scholarly voices, strengthen academic collaboration, and create space for rigorous research through seminars, workshops and campus engagement.

Scholars refining their doctoral dissertations into book manuscripts are especially encouraged to apply.

Benefits

Up to two fellows will be selected for the 2026–27 cycle, depending on available funding.

Selected fellows will receive:

Campus workspace and access to library and administrative support.
Housing on or near campus.
A stipend and dedicated research funds.
Travel support to and from Abu Dhabi.
An opportunity to convene a small workshop.

Fellows remain responsible for meeting the tax requirements of their home countries.

Who can apply

Applicants must:

Hold a PhD completed between September 2021 and September 2026.
Work in a humanities field connected to the Arab world.
Demonstrate strong research capacity and academic promise.
Be willing to reside in Abu Dhabi for the fellowship duration.
Participate actively in HRF seminars and research activities.

Requirements

Applications will be submitted through Interfolio.

Required documents include:

A CV (maximum four pages).
A 1,250-word project proposal.
A 250-word dissertation abstract.
Two reference letters submitted directly by referees, with one addressing dissertation progress.

Selection will follow a competitive review led by programme investigators and expert reviewers. Full details are available on the HRF website.