Emirati students and young professionals aged 16 to 45 can apply for the International Youth Leadership Dialogue 2027 in Manchester, UK, from 15 to 18 April 2027. 30 Fully Funded seats cover return airfare from the UAE, a shared 4 star hotel and meals, and 40 Partially Funded seats cover everything except airfare.
Why Emirati delegates apply
The UAE is home to young people from more than 200 nationalities, and its students and young professionals are at the centre of conversations on innovation, trade and sustainability. IYLD 2027 gives them four days to practise diplomacy, negotiation and public speaking with peers from dozens of countries, and a certificate of participation to show for it.
Funded seats
- Fully Funded (30 seats): return airfare, shared 4 star hotel, meals during the forum, invitation letter, embassy support, full programme access, a speaking opportunity, delegate kit and certificate.
- Partially Funded (40 seats): everything above except airfare.
Deadline in the UAE time
Applications close at 11:59 PM GMT on 15 January 2027. In the UAE (GST, GMT+4) that is 3:59 AM on 16 January. We recommend applying a day early so payment problems or slow connections do not cost you your place.
UK entry from the UAE
Emirati citizens do not need a visa to visit the UK. Instead you apply online for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which costs £20 according to gov.uk and lets you visit for up to 6 months. Apply a few weeks before you travel.
If you live in the UAE but hold another country's passport, the rules for your passport apply: check on gov.uk. Every confirmed delegate receives an official invitation letter, which also helps with any visa application.
Travelling from the UAE to Manchester
Manchester Airport is well connected internationally, with one stop routes through hubs such as Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Istanbul. Fully Funded delegates have their return airfare covered. The venue, Revolution Manchester Deansgate Locks, is in the city centre.
Paying the application fee
Scholarship applications (Fully Funded and Partially Funded) carry a £13.99 application processing fee, which pays for assessment by the selection panel. If you would rather have a confirmed place than compete for a funded one, the Premium Access Pass (£299) and Self Funded package (£799, with shared 4 star accommodation) guarantee your seat straight away. Every category lists exactly what is and is not included before you pay.
Payment is taken in British pounds by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. Make sure your debit or credit card is enabled for international online payments before you start.
How to apply
- Choose your category on the IYLD 2027 page.
- Complete the online application. It takes about 10 minutes and there is no essay word minimum.
- Pay the fee securely by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay.
- Scholarship results are emailed on 10 February 2027. Guaranteed passes are confirmed straight away.
Frequently asked questions
01Can Emirati citizens apply for IYLD 2027?
Yes. IYLD 2027 is open to every nationality, including Emirati citizens and Emirati students living abroad, aged 16 to 45.
02What time is the deadline in the UAE?
Applications close at 11:59 PM GMT on 15 January 2027, which is 3:59 AM on 16 January in the UAE (GST, GMT+4).
03What does Fully Funded cover?
Return airfare, shared 4 star accommodation, meals during the forum, an official invitation letter, embassy support, full programme access, a delegate kit and a certificate of participation. There are 30 Fully Funded seats.
04Do Emirati applicants need IELTS?
No. No IELTS or TOEFL is required, but you should be comfortable taking part in discussions in English.
05Do Emirati citizens need a UK visa?
No. Emirati citizens apply online for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which costs £20 according to gov.uk. Residents of the UAE with other passports follow the rules for their own passport.