Why UAE Students Quit Studying Abroad

Returning Home or Adapting: Why UAE Students Quit Overseas Studies

In the United Arab Emirates, many young people's dreams come true when they have the opportunity to study abroad. A prestigious university, international environment, new experiences—all seem to promise a bright future. Yet, more and more students are turning back halfway, not for financial reasons or academic failures, but simply because they are homesick.

Homesickness is not just a passing feeling

Although it's easy to dismiss it initially with 'you'll get used to it,' experts say that homesickness can have serious consequences. It doesn't only manifest emotionally—sadness, loneliness, isolation—but can also affect concentration, motivation, and even cause physical symptoms. These all impair academic performance and can ultimately lead to a student dropping out and returning to their familiar environment.

The issue particularly affects young people growing up in the UAE who, for the first time in their lives, find themselves far from their families, friends, and familiar cultural surroundings. According to local psychologists, these relationships significantly define their identity, and losing or distancing from them can trigger a real identity crisis.

Why aren't we mentally prepared?

When a student goes abroad to study, the focus is usually on administrative tasks: getting a visa, admission papers, finding accommodation, and academic requirements. Little attention is paid to how they will emotionally react to the change in environment. Often, even parents are only concerned with providing financial support and neglect emotional preparation.

However, experts say it's worth discussing with the child in advance what feelings they might experience away from home. It's essential that they don't feel weak if they experience sadness or despair during the initial weeks and months. Honest conversations, emotional support, and realistic expectations can help ensure that the student doesn't give up prematurely.

Universities' responsibility

Providing emotional support is not just a family's duty. Universities—whether in the UAE or abroad—also have a role in facilitating integration. Some institutions have recognized the severity of the problem and have introduced programs such as:

Cultural adaptation training,

Mentorship programs with senior students,

Support groups with other international students.

These initiatives can help newcomers not only understand the academic system but also build a new network of social relationships, thus reducing the anxiety stemming from homesickness.

The dark side of digital communication

Social media now allows us to stay connected with friends and family anytime. However, this is not always an advantage. The constant sense of 'missing out,' evoked by images of parties, family dinners, or birthday gatherings seen on Instagram, can easily amplify feelings of loneliness. After a video call, many students may feel even lonelier, as they realize they are missing something that was once part of their life.

Therefore, it's essential for family members and friends who remain at home to pay attention to how they communicate with the student abroad. A supportive message like 'we're proud of you, keep it up' means much more than saying 'we miss you, come home.'

Possible solutions

Dealing with homesickness is not a single-step process. It is a complex procedure that can be aided by factors such as:

Mental preparation: Consulting psychologists even before departure.

Community involvement: Joining student clubs, volunteering, playing sports.

Regular, but mindful contact with home: One or two calls a week, avoiding discussing every little detail.

Realistic expectations: No need to make friends immediately or adapt perfectly—it takes time.

Patience with oneself: Important that the student doesn't blame themselves if they face challenges.

Conclusion

Homesickness is a real problem that cannot be dismissed with a wave of the hand. For young people from the UAE studying abroad, detachment can be particularly difficult, as many face separation from their accustomed environment for the first time. Proper emotional preparation, supportive systems from universities, and conscious attitudes from family members play a crucial role in ensuring that these young people don't return home prematurely but find their place in the new environment—and ultimately achieve their goals.

(Source: Based on input from parents and experts.)