MoHESR Halts Horizon University College Operations
Ministry revokes licence, stops admissions, and supports student transfers to accredited institutions.
MoHESR orders halt to all academic instruction, programme marketing and new admissions
Dubai: The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has revoked the institutional licence and programme accreditation of Ajman-based Horizon University College, the ministry announced on Monday.
The action comes after serious and repeated violations of the UAE's institutional and academic rules. The ministry said the college's continued operation affected education quality, the reliability of academic results, institutional sustainability and, most importantly, student rights.
Horizon University College is now not allowed to carry out any higher education activities. This means a complete stop to all academic instruction, programme marketing, new admissions, qualification awarding and the issuance of transcripts, the ministry said in a press release.
Taskforce to support students
The ministry said it is supporting the affected students. "Working in close coordination with local departments and relevant authorities, the ministry is actively facilitating the seamless transfer of students affected by the revocation of licence to alternative accredited higher education institutions to ensure their studies continue without interruption, in alignment with its dedication to safeguarding students' educational future as a paramount priority."
To manage this process properly, the ministry has set up a special joint task force.
Chaired by a representative from MoHESR and members from the College and other relevant key stakeholders, this group is overseeing a full student protection plan to ensure a smooth transfer process and full protection of all academic rights. MoHESR also urged affected students and their parents to follow its official channels for real-time updates and guidance.
The ministry said this decision shows its strong commitment to strict oversight of the UAE's higher education sector.
"By enforcing strict adherence to national standards in collaboration with the relevant local and federal authorities, the ministry continues to protect student interests while upholding the quality, reliability and global competitiveness of the nation's higher education ecosystem."
The ministry added that it remains committed to clear and consistent communication throughout the transfer process to make sure the transition is smooth and easy for everyone involved.
Previous case
In December 2025, the ministry had withdrawn recognition for all qualifications issued by Midocean University, which operates an executive office in Fujairah, following serious compliance violations uncovered during a joint inspection.
Later, the ministry also clarified that academic degrees issued by the institution "will not be accepted for employment or professional purposes within the UAE."
AI contributed to the creation of this article.