Over 3,500 Emirati students fall victim to academic, financial exploitation by foreign universities: Minister

Over 3,500 self-funded Emirati students have fallen victim to academic and financial exploitation by two foreign universities, a senior UAE minister highlighted.

Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Minister of Human Resources and Emiratization, Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, was citing a discussion at a recent session of the Federal National Council.

The minister said that a recent decision to reform the process of sending students abroad was based on comprehensive analysis and accurate data, which revealed alarming discrepancies in the quality of educational programs pursued by self-funded students.

According to the ministry, 46 percent of these students — more than 3,500 — are enrolled in just two universities, raising serious concerns about academic and commercial exploitation.

Moreover, 25 percent of them are attending institutions that are not ranked or recognized at all, exposing a significant gap in academic awareness that could jeopardize their career prospects.

Dr. Al Awar added that the UAE has approximately 2,600 students currently on government scholarships — whether federal or local — who are studying at prestigious, internationally respected academic institutions.

Emirati students who previously obtained a no-objection letter to study abroad will be supported in transitioning to universities and academic programs, the minister added.

A committee, chaired by the Council for Education, Human Development and Community and comprising representatives from the ministry and other specialized bodies, has been formed to assist students and provide alternative solutions tailored to their academic and personal circumstances.

The committee will also consider exceptional cases related to the country of study, the nature of the program, or the institution, ensuring students can continue their education without compromising their future.

Dr. Al Awar emphasized that the no-objection letter was valid for one year only and required an annual review to ensure program compliance with accreditation standards.

In media statements, he clarified that the recent decision regulating scholarships and study abroad does not exclude anyone, but rather protects all students.

“Education is not just a certificate to hang on a wall; it is a tool to build a strong, professional, and competitive future. We are here to protect our students from institutions that do not deserve their investment and to provide them with pathways that ensure academic excellence and professional recognition both locally and internationally,” he said. “The decision serves as a compass to guide students and their families toward informed choices, instead of leaving them vulnerable to random decisions that may not serve their best interests.”

Dr. Al Awar stated that the timing of the decision aligns with national efforts to enhance the education system and ensure higher education outcomes are aligned with labor market demands. It also reaffirms the necessity for foreign degrees to meet official quality standards.

The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research also outlined six steps for verifying the accreditation status of academic programs and institutions abroad. These include a detailed audit process and the issuance of an official document confirming the accreditation of the university and program after review.

The ministry may request additional documents during the review process, after which an official confirmation of the institution’s accreditation status will be issued.