Funded Public Policy Internship in the UAE

The Al Qasimi Foundation Internship Program offers undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates, the opportunity to gain up to three months of practical experience in public policy, research and community development in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.

Interns work in a multicultural environment alongside researchers and practitioners. Each participant is assigned to projects that reflect their academic background, professional interests and the Foundation’s current needs.

Internship activities may include

• Conducting literature reviews and background research

• Supporting qualitative and quantitative data analysis

• Participating in fieldwork and community-based projects

• Preparing policy briefs and research reports

• Assisting with communications and multimedia content

• Supporting projects related to education, public health, urban development and public policy

• Completing a final research, policy or creative project for publication or presentation

Every intern is expected to produce a tangible capstone output, such as a policy brief, research report or multimedia project.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate, master’s or doctoral program at an accredited university

• Be in good academic standing

• Alternatively, have graduated from university within the past two years

• Have relevant academic or professional experience

• Demonstrate an interest in Ras Al Khaimah, the UAE and the Gulf region

• Have a strong command of English

• Meet the minimum English-language requirement of TOEFL iBT 85 or IELTS 6.5 if English is not their first language

Relevant fields include education, public health, public policy, urban planning and development, economic development and food access. Applicants with experience in public relations, communications, multimedia production or translation may also be considered depending on the Foundation’s current projects.

Program structure

Interns receive orientation, supervision from a staff member and ongoing mentorship. The program also includes professional development workshops, networking activities, cultural excursions, community events and a final showcase where participants present their work.

Funding and benefits

• Furnished shared accommodation

• Local transportation

• Modest stipend for living expenses

• Professional mentorship

• Training workshops and networking opportunities

• Cultural immersion activities

• Publication or presentation of the final project

• Certificate of completion

• Access to the Foundation’s alumni community

Airfare to and from the UAE and personal expenses are not covered.

Application requirements

Applicants must submit the following materials in English:

• Online application form

• Cover letter describing their motivation, relevant experience, expected contribution and preferred internship dates

• CV or resume

• One-minute video introduction

The selection committee considers academic achievement, the quality of the application, compatibility with the Foundation’s current projects and the applicant’s academic and professional goals. Preference is given to candidates planning graduate studies or seeking research experience in education, public policy and related fields.

Schedule and deadline

The program has two cohorts each year:

• Summer Intake — application deadline: April 30

• Winter Intake — application deadline: October 31

Internships last up to three months. Exact dates may be adapted to the participant’s academic calendar and the Foundation’s project schedule.