The UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has adopted a new decree that establishes fees for the evaluation of institutions in higher education, as well as in technical and vocational training institutions.
This decree was introduced under the Federal Decree Law on Higher Education and Scientific Research and aims to strengthen the system of licensing, accreditation, and quality assurance for academic and educational institutions in the UAE.
Under the new system, the Ministry will define clear fees for the licensing, accreditation, and license renewal of institutions and programs, providing institutions with greater transparency regarding the costs associated with evaluation and review processes.
These fees will also cover expenses related to engaging external assessors and specialized experts participating in the accreditation and review activities, based on established guidelines and procedures.
Dr. Ahmed Sultan Al Shuwaibi, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, stated that this decree is part of the UAE's broader efforts to strengthen the legislative and regulatory framework of the sector.
Furthermore, the decree is intended to help institutions more effectively plan their financial and administrative processes by clearly defining service categories, review fees, and payment procedures.
The Ministry clarified that the fee amount is directly linked to the specialized technical checks, which are an integral part of the quality assurance and accreditation process. These checks assess whether institutions and programs comply with approved standards and requirements.
The new structure also takes into account the differences between academic programs and their individual evaluation requirements, reflecting the varying technical and organizational scope of work required for the review of institutions and programs.
Review fees will be deposited into the Review Fund for Higher Education and Technical and Vocational Training Institutions. This Fund, established by a Cabinet Resolution, is intended to finance and support review operations related to the licensing and accreditation of institutions and programs.
It also provides funding for engaging specialized international assessors, experts, and institutions, thereby enhancing the quality and reliability of evaluation processes and ensuring the long-term sustainability and governance of the licensing and accreditation ecosystem.