MAKKAH – The Middle East Youth Summit (MEYS) 2026, held from March 30 to April 2, 2026, at M Hotel by Millennium Makkah, served as an inspiring platform for young people from around the world. The event was designed to broaden global perspectives, build international networks, and strengthen enthusiasm for pursuing education abroad.

During one of the panel discussion sessions, Zulfan Hasdiansyah shared essential strategies for securing international scholarships, particularly fully funded study opportunities in Saudi Arabia.

As an academic with educational experience at the Islamic University of Madinah and advanced studies at King Abdul Aziz University, Zulfan provided realistic guidance based on his firsthand experience in global education.

“Focused education, thorough preparation, and the courage to pursue international opportunities are the main keys to obtaining overseas scholarships,” said Zulfan Hasdiansyah during the MEYS 2026 discussion session (1/5/2026).

Zulfan Hasdiansyah’s Tips for Securing International Scholarships

1. Build a Strong Academic Foundation

Zulfan emphasized that academic excellence is one of the most important factors in scholarship selection. High grades, foreign language proficiency, and a clear academic focus are crucial.

2. Understand the Educational Vision of Your Destination Country and University

According to Zulfan, prospective students should understand the educational goals of their chosen country, including major initiatives such as Saudi Vision 2030, which has expanded international education opportunities.

3. Prepare Documents Early

Requirements such as academic transcripts, language certificates, recommendation letters, and motivation letters should be professionally prepared in advance.

4. Develop Non-Academic Competencies

Leadership experience, organizational involvement, and social activities can significantly improve an applicant’s competitiveness.

5. Actively Seek Official Information

Zulfan encouraged participants to rely on official university sources and international scholarship programs to stay informed about opportunities. “Scholarships are not only about grades, but also about personal capacity, leadership, and global contribution,” Zulfan firmly stated (1/5/2026).

In his presentation, Zulfan explained that Saudi Arabia has now become one of the world’s emerging global education hubs, offering numerous fully funded scholarship schemes.

It commonly includes tuition fees, accommodation, living allowances, modern research access, and extensive international networks. This has made Saudi Arabia an increasingly attractive destination for international students, including those from Indonesia.

MEYS 2026: A Platform for Future Global Leaders

Over the course of several days, MEYS 2026 did not only engage participants in discussions about pressing global issues, but also provided cultural and spiritual experiences such as performing Umrah and visiting historical sites in Makkah.

On the third day, participants presented their projects and innovative ideas. Chairman of MEYS 2026, Muhammad Aldi Subakti, emphasized that the program was specifically designed to nurture future leaders with international capabilities.

“We hope this event will continue to produce future leaders who bring brilliant ideas and impactful solutions,” said Aldi on the same day.

Several winners were selected across three major categories:

• Best Project: Archana Prajapati (India)
• Best Leader: Nadia Habib Mughal (Jordan)
• Best Speaker: Nida Vardak (Saudi Arabia)

The participation of delegates in Middle East Youth Summit 2026 demonstrated that education, experience, and global vision can serve as powerful bridges toward an international future. Through this summit, young leaders were empowered to pursue broader opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the world stage. (*)