The Education, Human Development and Community Development Council is the UAE’s highest federal authority for coordinating national policies and strategies across education, human capital development and community empowerment. It oversees all levels of education, regulates national talent development systems and fosters family stability and social cohesion. Through unified frameworks and legislation, the Council ensures integration across government efforts in these vital sectors.
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) leads the development of the higher education sector in the UAE. Working in collaboration with the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council and relevant federal and local authorities, the ministry drives a national vision for a competitive, academically excellent and knowledge-based education system that empowers future generations through education, research and innovation.
Effective collaboration between federal and local authorities, universities and research institutions is key to advancing higher education in the UAE. MoHESR is committed to creating an integrated system that promotes student mobility, aligns policies and procedures, and ensures consistent quality nationwide.
Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) regulates the quality of education in Dubai and supports its vision of being a global hub for excellent education. It focuses on improving education standards, expanding access and fostering community partnerships to meet the evolving needs of Dubai’s diverse population. Through collaboration with local and international partners, KHDA enhances educational offerings, supports schools and educators in the emirate, and promotes sustainable development across the education sector. It also oversees private educational institutions and certifies higher education degrees from licensed universities in Dubai.
Department of Education and Knowledge in Abu Dhabi (ADEK) regulates Abu Dhabi’s education sector and drives the development of a future-ready system. It oversees licensing of private institutions, manages partnership schools and develops policies and standards. ADEK also supports students through enrichment programmes and academic guidance, ensuring strong alignment between the outcome of education and the needs of the labour market.
In line with the National Strategy for Higher Education 2030, ADEK has put in place policies, regulations and procedures that guarantee quality in educational programmes, regulate higher education institutions in Abu Dhabi and raise the quality of education opportunities offered. It also guides and assists students in accessing higher education that follows international standards and contributes to enhanced productivity and competitiveness.
Sharjah Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research advises on regulating and advancing higher education and research in Sharjah. Its role is to:
22 Sep 2025