ABU DHABI (WAM)
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has approved a new set of regulations defining violations and penalties across UAE higher education, vocational training, and private institutes.
Set to come into effect on 12 September 2026, the resolution establishes a unified system to oversee academic standards, institutional licensing, advertising, data accuracy, and campus health and safety.
Dr Ahmed Sultan Al Shoaibi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, said the sector is undergoing significant transformation. It is at advancing the legislative and regulatory environment while enhancing readiness for future requirements.
“We believe that effective governance is built on clear roles and responsibilities, fair procedures, and empowering institutions to enhance their performance and improve the quality of their services. This is reflected directly in the quality of educational outcomes and in the confidence of students and society in the higher education system," Dr Al Shoaibi said.
He said the new resolution complements these efforts by providing a clear regulatory framework that strengthens institutional compliance and promotes best practices.
Under the new regulations, penalties will follow a graduated scale based on the severity and frequency of the infraction. Institutions will be given opportunities to correct minor issues, while severe breaches impacting academic integrity or student rights will face immediate action.
Key measures in the framework focus heavily on safeguarding students. In cases where an institution faces regulatory action, it will be legally required to guarantee the continuity of classes, safeguard academic records, and refund any fees collected without entitlement.
The framework also establishes a dedicated ministry committee to independently review appeals and grievances from institutions. Additionally, it coordinates with local education authorities to prevent duplicate penalties.
The resolution falls under the Federal Decree-Law on Higher Education and Scientific Research, joining recent national initiatives such as updated licensing rules, scholarship frameworks, and standardised ministry fees.