UAE streamlines higher education licensing under new national framework

The UAE is introducing a new national licensing system for higher education institutions to streamline regulation, strengthen governance and raise education standards.

The framework, approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, creates a single national reference for licensing universities and colleges, including those in free zones, while respecting the role of local authorities.

It aims to simplify regulatory procedures, improve the student experience, strengthen partnerships between universities and industry, and boost the quality and competitiveness of the UAE's higher education sector.

Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR), says the framework brings together the MoHESR, local authorities and higher education institutions under a more coordinated licensing and oversight system.

He added that it will reduce duplication, improve efficiency and make services easier to access.

The new framework also introduces electronic data sharing and monitoring to support evidence-based decision-making and ensure institutions meet national quality and performance standards.

It sets out clear rules covering every stage of institutional licensing, while introducing stronger requirements for governance, financial sustainability, student protection and academic continuity.

Officials say the framework will help prepare higher education institutions for future challenges, support the development of skilled talent for the labour market and reinforce the UAE's position as a global hub for higher education and scientific research.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai (may God protect him), approved a resolution on the National Framework for Licensing Higher Education Institutions, pic.twitter.com/bYJfvuhAdP

— وزارة التعليم العالي والبحث العلمي (@mohesruae) July 16, 2026