Heading overseas for university? Here's what Emirati students need to know about UAE's higher education standards
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)To elevate the quality of higher education and better align academic outcomes with national goals, the UAE Government has a robust framework in place for Emirati students wishing to pursue studies abroad. Decision No. (5) of 2025, issued by the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council (EHCD), has introduced a defined set of standards for academic institutions and programmes. The decision, already in effect, governs the enrollment of UAE nationals in diploma, bachelor's, master's, doctorate, and equivalent degree programmes at international universities.
Why These Criteria Matter The framework was established not only to protect students and their families from investing in non-accredited or low-ranked institutions, but also to align international education with the UAE's economic goals and future skill demands.By setting clear thresholds for university rankings, the EHCD seeks to empower students to make informed decisions and avoid the risk of their qualifications being rejected for purposes such as government employment, promotion, or scholarship eligibility.The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) is the central authority students must consult before enrolling abroad, with formal procedures in place to verify whether a university or academic programme meets official standards.
What Are the Criteria?All Emirati students, whether self-funded or supported by government scholarships, must ensure that the chosen institution meets the ministry's approved global ranking requirements. The institution must be ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide in the intended field of study. If studying in the US or Australia, the institution must rank in the top 100 in the chosen field and top 100 overall.If studying in any other English-speaking country, the university must fall within the top 200 globally, both in the specific academic field and overall. In non-English-speaking countries, the institution must be ranked among the top 300 in the field and overall.Failure to meet these standards may result in non-recognition of the qualification, jeopardising employment, further studies, and professional entitlements in the UAE.
How Students Can Check Their OptionsMoHESR offers a free service to support students in navigating these academic criteria. Students can access these services by navigating to the 'Information Service about Academic Programmes Abroad for UAE Nationals' page on the ministry's official website, clicking 'Start New Application', then selecting 'Inquiry About Academic Programme'. Lastly, they need to enter the details of the university and academic programme they wish to enquire about. After uploading necessary documents (such as Emirates ID and passport copy) through the digital portal, students will receive an official response within 1–5 business days confirming the accreditation status.
Enquiries and exemption requests can be addressed to recog.comm@mohesr.gov.ae.
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