The UAE has introduced a groundbreaking digital service that will transform how private sector employers verify academic qualifications of their workforce. This innovative system promises to streamline what has traditionally been a lengthy and paper-heavy process.
What Is the New Academic Qualification Verification Project?
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has launched a comprehensive digital platform designed specifically for private sector employers and workers holding degrees from overseas institutions.
Key features include:
- Digital verification of academic credentials
- Coverage for skill levels 1 to 4
- One-time fee structure replacing multiple charges
- Integration with work permit applications
- Reduced paperwork and processing times
Searching for employment opportunities in UAE’s private sector? This new system will make the hiring process smoother for both employers and job seekers.
How the Current Process Works vs. New System
Traditional Method (Before Digital Service)
For expatriate workers:
- Academic certificates must be attested in home country first
- Additional attestation required in UAE
- Processing time: 10+ working days initially
- Multiple fees and extensive paperwork
- Several government office visits required
For pre-attested certificates:
- Processing time: 2 working days in UAE
- Still requires physical document submission
New Digital Process (2025 Launch)
- Single online platform accessible via MoHRE website
- Mobile app integration for convenience
- Direct digital verification with overseas institutions
- Streamlined work permit integration
- One-time fee covering entire process
Who Can Use This Service?
Currently eligible:
- Private sector employers in UAE
- Workers with degrees issued outside the UAE
- Academic qualifications covering skill levels 1-4
Future expansion:
- Service will extend to include degrees issued within UAE
- Timeline for domestic degree inclusion not yet announced
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Access Points and Availability
The service operates through multiple channels:
- MoHRE official website – primary online portal
- Smart mobile application – iOS and Android compatibility
- Business service centres – physical locations across all emirates
This multi-channel approach accommodates different user preferences and accessibility needs.
Partnership Framework Behind the Service
The project represents collaboration between three key government entities:
Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE)
- Project leadership and implementation
- Work permit integration
- Private sector regulation
Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR)
- Academic verification authority
- International institution liaison
- Quality assurance oversight
Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA)
- Digital infrastructure support
- Cybersecurity framework
- Platform maintenance
Benefits for Employers and Workers
For Private Sector Employers:
- Faster hiring decisions with quicker verification
- Reduced administrative burden and paperwork
- Enhanced confidence in candidate qualifications
- Cost efficiency through streamlined processes
for Job Seekers:
- Shorter waiting periods for employment eligibility
- Single application process replacing multiple steps
- Digital convenience eliminating office visits
- Transparent tracking of application status
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Supporting UAE’s Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme
Dr Mohammad Al Mualla, Undersecretary of MoHESR, highlighted that this initiative aligns with the UAE’s Zero Government Bureaucracy programme. This national initiative aims to eliminate unnecessary administrative procedures and deliver citizen-centric government services.
Programme objectives include:
- Reducing processing times by 50% or more
- Minimising physical document requirements
- Creating seamless digital experiences
- Improving government service satisfaction rates
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Impact on UAE’s Labour Market
Khalil Al Khoori, Undersecretary of Labour Market and Emiratisation Operations at MoHRE, noted that the project supports efforts to “curb harmful practices” in recruitment. This likely refers to:
- Qualification fraud prevention through direct verification
- Employment standard enhancement across sectors
- Professional integrity maintenance in the workforce
- Regulatory compliance improvement
Timeline and Implementation
Current status: Service launched for overseas degrees Phase 1: Private sector focus with skill levels 1-4 Phase 2: Extension to UAE-issued degrees (timeline pending) Integration: Work permit process embedding ongoing
The phased approach allows for system refinement and user feedback incorporation before full-scale implementation.
Key Takeaway
The UAE’s new digital academic qualification verification service represents a significant step forward in employment regulation and efficiency. By reducing verification times from weeks to days and eliminating multiple fees, the system benefits both employers and job seekers whilst maintaining academic integrity standards. This initiative supports the UAE’s broader digital transformation goals and positions the country as a leader in government service innovation.
For more insights on UAE employment processes, explore our guides on UAE work visa requirements and understanding employment law changes.





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