Abu Dhabi's new digital skills card lets employers verify credentials instantly

Abu Dhabi has launched a groundbreaking digital credential system designed to allow employers to immediately verify professionals' qualifications through blockchain technology. This new initiative, known as the Digital Skills Card, was unveiled by the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (QCC) in collaboration with Union Assessment and Quality Accreditation (UAC). Each card is directly tied to a certification earned through programs accredited by QCC and administered by UAC.

Employers, regulators, and other stakeholders can simply scan a QR code on the card to instantly confirm the certification's validity and authenticity via ADI Chain, a blockchain infrastructure provided by the ADI Foundation. This development represents a significant step in the adoption of blockchain-verifiable workforce credentials across the Gulf Co-operation Council and the broader Middle East and North Africa region.

The launch event, held in Abu Dhabi's capital, brought together government officials, regulators, industry leaders, and certified professionals.

Badr Khamis Al Shumaili, executive director of the conformity and standards services sector at QCC, emphasized that digitalization has evolved beyond merely simplifying processes. He described it as a "fundamental pillar for building more connected and transparent systems, grounded in trusted data." Al Shumaili added that the Digital Skills Card provides a secure method for verifying professional skills and strengths, fostering confidence among regulators, employers, and professionals in the accreditation of competencies.

Shahbaz Muhammad Khan, director and CEO of UAC, highlighted that the initiative is centered around certifying professionals. He explained that verified skills can accompany individuals, be recognized across various institutions and borders, and retain their value regardless of the professional's career path. Khan further stated that the scope of the Digital Skills Card is intended to expand over time, covering a wider array of certifications, qualifications, and professional achievements.

QCC will continue to collaborate with government bodies, regulators, employers, and industry stakeholders to further develop digital credential solutions and enhance professional recognition, workforce quality, and service standards in Abu Dhabi. The QCC contributes to the emirate's quality infrastructure by providing standardization, conformity assessment, testing, inspection, and accreditation services.

UAC specializes in workforce skills assessment and accreditation for industrial sectors, tailoring its programs to meet regulatory requirements and labor market demands.