UAE Updates Rules for Recognizing Foreign Online Degrees

The UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has announced changes to its regulations for recognizing foreign university degrees, particularly those obtained through online and distance learning programs. These changes aim to streamline the process and ensure that qualifications meet specific standards set by the UAE government.

New Recognition Policy for Online Degrees

The updated guidelines now allow for the conditional recognition of degrees earned through distance learning, open education, online education, and correspondence. However, the degrees must meet certain criteria outlined by a dedicated ministerial committee to be considered valid for recognition.

The ministry clarified that vocational certificates, certificates from short-term training programs, and degrees awarded through specialized programs for specific student groups will not be recognized. The changes are part of an effort to ensure that only accredited and legitimate academic qualifications are accepted.

Degree Verification Process

To simplify the recognition process, the Ministry has partnered with two external agencies—DataFlow and QuadraBay. These agencies will handle the verification of degrees and confirm their authenticity. After degree verification, applicants can apply for official recognition through the Ministry.

The entire process is online, and while there are no set deadlines, the ministry typically takes up to 30 working days to process a recognition application. Applicants can also appeal decisions within three months if necessary.

Criteria for Degree Recognition

Degrees earned through non-traditional study formats will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. A key requirement is that the awarding institution must be accredited by the official educational authorities in the country where it is based. Additionally, students must follow the approved study methods of their universities.

The Ministry also emphasized that applications for vocational certificates, short-term training programs, and degrees aimed at specific groups of students will not be considered for recognition.

Recognition Fees

The recognition fees are structured as follows:

• Dh100 for a bachelor’s degree
• Dh150 for a postgraduate degree
• Dh200 for a doctoral degree

Verification fees will vary depending on the country where the degree was obtained and the charges set by the awarding institution. Payments can be made electronically through e-Dirham or postpaid cards.

Key Conditions for Recognition of Foreign Qualifications

The Ministry also outlined five main conditions for recognizing professional qualifications such as diplomas and degrees from universities outside the UAE:

1. The student must follow the program outlined by their university.
2. The university must be accredited in its home country.
3. If transferring credits, the university must be licensed and accredited.
4. For online programs, the university must be recognized by the UAE’s Ministry for distance learning, with a maximum of 18 credit hours per semester.
5. For medical and engineering degrees, applicants must have a relevant bachelor’s degree.