Mohammed bin Rashid approves national framework for licensing higher education institutions in UAE

Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has approved a special resolution introducing the National Framework for Licensing Higher Education Institutions, as part of the implementation of the Federal Decree-Law on Higher Education and Scientific Research. The framework establishes a unified national reference for licensing higher education institutions across the UAE, including universities operating in free zones, while ensuring compliance with national standards and respecting the responsibilities of relevant local authorities. The new framework aims to enhance governance across the higher education sector, streamline regulatory procedures, improve the student experience, strengthen partnerships between universities and industry, and boost the quality and efficiency of educational outcomes. It is also designed to further strengthen the UAE's competitiveness as a global destination for higher education and scientific research. Dr Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, said the framework reflects the UAE's commitment to developing an integrated licensing system involving the ministry, local authorities and higher education institutions. He noted that the framework provides greater clarity and consistency in licensing and oversight processes, reduces duplication of procedures and facilitates access to services. Stronger governance and oversight The framework introduces a data-driven monitoring system through electronic integration between higher education institutions and national records, while ensuring coordination with authorities responsible for institutions operating in free zones. It also supports evidence-based regulatory decision-making using accurate and up-to-date data and aligns with the National Higher Education Institutions Classification Framework, along with national quality and performance standards. The framework covers all stages of institutional licensing, including: Licensing requirements for new institutions. Risk assessment and compliance mechanisms. Institutional sustainability requirements. Licence renewal procedures. Measures to ensure continuity of education. It also regulates ownership structures, governance bodies and executive and academic leadership responsibilities, ensuring a clear separation between ownership, management and academic decision-making. Focus on sustainability and student protection The framework strengthens the financial and operational sustainability of higher education institutions through requirements covering financial guarantees, audited financial statements, student protection measures and academic continuity plans. According to the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the framework will help institutions better prepare for future challenges while supporting national efforts to develop highly skilled talent for the labour market. The approval reinforces the UAE's long-term strategy to build a world-class higher education ecosystem capable of supporting innovation, research excellence and sustainable economic growth.