UAE steps up scrutiny of academic certificates – with Dh30,000 fine among penalties for fakes
The UAE has issued a warning that those caught forging academic qualifications could face up to three years in jail and fines of Dh30,000 ($8,170), as demand for the verification of documents increases. The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research said on Monday that it has a system to monitor and verify the authenticity of qualifications issued by higher education institutions in the…
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced heightened vigilance against the production and use of fraudulent academic credentials, with severe penalties in place for those found guilty. The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has unveiled a system designed to authenticate qualifications from both UAE and international institutions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of academic achievements.
Upon discovering forged qualifications, the ministry warns that offenders could face imprisonment term of up to three years and a fine of Dh30,000 ($8,170).
Ahmed Al Hammadi, director of the legal affairs department at the ministry, highlighted that while instances of forged academic documents in the UAE are relatively infrequent compared to the sheer volume of credentials processed, the government remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold the credibility of these certifications.
Any allegation of forgery, manipulation, or alteration in academic certificates is treated according to established legal protocols, with the case being handed over to the appropriate judicial authorities when a criminal offense is suspected.
In 2025, the ministry processed a total of 178,600 verification requests, a number that surged to 253,000 by the start of 2026. The ministry has issued a stern warning against any actions that could jeopardize the integrity and reliability of academic qualifications. Suspected fraudulent activities will be swiftly reported to the relevant authorities under Article 252 of Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021, which outlines penalties for forging official documents and the lesser punishment for forging unofficial documents.
Furthermore, the ministry actively collaborates with the Ministry of Justice, the Federal Public Prosecution, and local prosecution bodies in handling suspected cases, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to combating academic fraud. Public and private sector entities are actively encouraged to verify the authenticity of academic qualifications to ensure the protection of employers and the overall credibility of educational achievements within the country.
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