The UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has introduced new regulations for universities and colleges operating in Ajman, marking a significant step toward strengthening educational governance, quality assurance, and accreditation standards in the emirate.
The move follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between MoHESR and the General Secretariat of the Executive Council Ajman, establishing a unified framework for licensing and accrediting higher education institutions (HEIs).
Stricter Licensing and Accreditation
Under the new framework, all higher education institutions in Ajman must obtain official licenses from the ministry before commencing operations. Likewise, every academic programme offered will require MoHESR accreditation to ensure that degrees awarded are officially recognised across the UAE and internationally.
The agreement aims to prevent the operation of unlicensed universities and to guarantee that students receive education from institutions that meet the national benchmarks of quality and governance.
Unified Standards and Collaborative Oversight
The collaboration will facilitate data sharing, joint audits, and streamlined monitoring of institutions to enhance transparency and accountability.
Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, said the initiative reflects the UAE’s vision of building a robust and unified education ecosystem aligned with national development goals.
“This partnership empowers Ajman-based higher education institutions to design academic programmes that meet labour market demands and align with the aspirations of our youth,” said Dr. Al Awar. “It also underscores our commitment to continuous improvement and to fostering research-driven, high-quality education.”
Supporting Ajman Vision 2030
Dr. Saeed Saif Al Matrooshi, Secretary-General of the Executive Council – Ajman, emphasized that the MoU aligns with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of the Ajman Executive Council.
“This collaboration reflects our determination to strengthen cooperation with federal entities to elevate Ajman’s educational landscape in line with the highest international standards,” Al Matrooshi said. “It also supports Ajman Vision 2030 and the UAE’s broader sustainable development goals by empowering national talent and enhancing educational competitiveness.”
Ensuring Quality and Future Readiness
Through this partnership, MoHESR and the Ajman Executive Council will jointly oversee institutional compliance, streamline review processes, and unify educational governance.
The ministry added that this agreement reinforces efforts to ensure all higher education entities across the country operate within a cohesive framework that prioritises academic excellence, innovation, and alignment with the UAE’s future-ready education strategy.
