UAE approves new penalties framework for higher education institutions

Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has approved a new framework outlining penalties and administrative measures for higher education institutions in the UAE. This development advances the sector's legislative and regulatory environment, promoting effective governance, enhancing quality, and safeguarding student rights.

Dr. Ahmed Sultan Al Shoaibi, the Ministry's Undersecretary, highlighted the importance of clear roles, fair procedures, and empowering institutions to improve performance and service quality. The new regulations will come into effect on September 12, 2026, establishing a unified framework that defines violations, penalties, and administrative measures for universities, technical education institutions, and training centres.

This integrated system ensures consistent implementation and transparency in regulatory dealings with educational institutions. The regulations address violations related to licensing, accreditation, data accuracy, academic integrity, examination security, training, advertising, and environmental, health, and safety requirements.

They also outline a graduated approach to violations, balancing rectification and disciplinary action. An institutional mechanism for challenging decisions and penalties is also established. Student protection is a priority, with provisions for academic continuity, record preservation, financial rights safeguarding, fee refunds, and status regularisation.