UAE activates automatic degree recognition for 34 universities

The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has announced that 34 UAE-based universities and colleges have joined the first phase of its automatic degree recognition initiative.

The new system allows graduates from these institutions to receive instant recognition of their qualifications, supporting the UAE’s zero-bureaucracy drive and boosting efficiency across the higher education sector.

Since its launch, more than 25,000 graduates have already benefited from the service.

The initiative will soon be expanded to include Emirati students studying overseas under ministry-supervised scholarships, giving them seamless access to government services from anywhere in the world.

The Ministry says the initiative is designed to speed up graduates’ transition into postgraduate studies or the workforce by removing the need for extra qualification checks.

It also helps meet government, residency and visa requirements, ensuring graduates are fully prepared for the next stage of their careers.

Ahmad Yousuf Al Nasser, Acting Assistant Under-Secretary for Higher Education Operations at MoHESR, said linking 34 institutions in the first phase reflects the Ministry’s commitment to building an efficient and flexible recognition system that aligns with the needs of students and the labour market.

He added that the Ministry continues to expand its network to create a fully integrated, digitally driven service.

The initiative uses a QR‑code verification system that confirms qualifications issued by accredited UAE institutions, while the Ministry also provides digital tools to verify degrees earned abroad — ensuring accuracy, reliability and easy access for authorities.

As part of our vision to accelerate digital transformation and Zero Government Bureaucracy, we announce the successful completion of the first phase of the automatic recognition initiative, with 34 UAE-based higher education institutions joining the programme. pic.twitter.com/cIzt4OqbhM

— وزارة التعليم العالي والبحث العلمي (@mohesruae) January 14, 2026