In response to the growing recognition of higher education institutions’ role in addressing global sustainability issues, several have implemented digital innovations, including artificial intelligence (AI), to improve student communication and participation. Emotional branding, which appeals to emotions and personal values, is crucial to these efforts, especially when addressing environmental issues. However, little study has examined how artificial intelligence is used to emotionally engage students in sustainability activities and how cultural and ethical factors affect these practices. This scoping review identified and synthesized 2022–2025 research on advertising technologies powered by artificial intelligence, emotional engagement, sustainability communication, and higher education. The review also examined how ethics and culture affect these projects. This review examined 28 peer-reviewed papers from nine academic databases using the PRISMA-ScR framework and Arksey and O’Malley’s technique. Thematic analysis revealed five major tendencies. The tendencies are: (1) AI-enhanced emotional branding for sustainability; (2) culturally sensitive messaging; (3) ethical problems in AI-driven customization; (4) social media for emotional amplification; and (5) regional student trust and receptivity. Although artificial intelligence is being used in communication methods, most study did not examine its emotional effects, cultural compatibility, or ethical implications. This scoping study highlights the growing yet fragmented research environment at the nexus of AI, sustainability, and emotional branding in higher education.