The UAE has introduced a new fast-track licensing and accreditation system that reduces the approval process for new academic programs from several months to just one week. This move is part of the government’s Zero Bureaucracy initiative aimed at improving efficiency across all sectors.
Previously, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) required multiple site visits and a lengthy approval process that delayed the launch of new programs. The revamped system aims to enhance competitiveness by helping universities quickly adapt to market demands, ensuring academic institutions can swiftly respond to educational needs.
Dr. Rawan Ghali, Director of Institutional Effectiveness at the American University in Dubai, shared that this change had already benefited her university. The approval of their new Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development program was expedited under the new system, which, for qualifying institutions, can now be completed in as little as one week. 
In the past, obtaining licensing and accreditation for new programs could take up to nine months, involving several steps and site visits. However, the new approach dramatically shortens these timelines while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Institutions with valid international accreditations and high confidence can now achieve program accreditation and institutional licensure much faster, with fewer site visits.
Dr. Adam Fenech, Provost at Canadian University Dubai, explained that the new framework accelerates the approval process and simplifies procedures, allowing institutions to launch new programs and begin operations without unnecessary delays. The system also ensures that all approvals are evidence-based and rigorous, aligned with international best practices.
Professor Souri Banerjee, Director at BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, emphasized that the fast-track process helps institutions that meet high standards receive the necessary licenses and accreditations without compromising on academic quality. The new system includes built-in safeguards, including 24 pre-defined key performance indicators (KPIs), to assess and monitor ongoing academic and operational standards.
The ministry will also conduct mid-cycle visits to monitor universities’ progress, ensuring continuous quality improvement and maintaining high standards throughout the academic lifecycle.
This fast-track system, designed to minimize delays and streamline accreditation, positions the UAE as a leading education hub, offering greater flexibility and responsiveness to the needs of both universities and students.
