UAE intensifies oversight of universities with AI-driven compliance checks
The UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has intensified its oversight of universities, technical institutes and training centres that fail to comply with regulations. Using artificial intelligence, on-site inspections and risk-based monitoring, the ministry is moving from a reactive enforcement model to one focused on early detection and prevention, with the aim of safeguarding student rights.
AI-driven monitoring and early results
MoHESR announced on Thursday that its role has shifted from simply identifying violations to proactively preventing risks, detecting non-compliance at an early stage, and tracking corrective actions. The ministry said the outcomes recorded in 2025 and 2026 reflect this strategic change, which is intended to raise the quality and competitiveness of higher education in the UAE.
Digital tools and AI now enable the ministry to monitor published advertisements as well as academic and educational practices, allowing swift and accurate intervention. Since the beginning of 2026, MoHESR has reviewed 3,970 digital advertisements. Of these, 88 were found to be in violation, resulting in a compliance rate of approximately 98 per cent, according to the ministry.
The proactive system helped limit the spread of non-compliant advertisements and address breaches. By combining digital monitoring, field visits and data analysis, the ministry can focus on priority areas and higher-risk cases.
Inspections and corrective plans
According to the ministry’s Higher Education Oversight and Quality Department, 228 regulatory visits and inspection campaigns were carried out from the start of the year through the end of the third quarter. These visits checked whether institutions and entities under oversight were meeting approved requirements and regulations.
The inspections led to 32 corrective action plans to address violations, and 84 per cent of the entities have since implemented their plans. The ministry said this demonstrates its focus on tackling the root causes of non-compliance and following up on remedies.
MoHESR applies graduated measures. Institutions can remedy breaches and restore compliance, while appropriate action is taken in cases that affect educational quality, academic integrity or students’ training and learning opportunities.
Collaboration on practical training
Working with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), MoHESR has conducted nearly 90 field visits since the start of 2026 to verify the quality and compliance of practical training for higher education students. The training of 441 students at 90 institutions and companies was verified.
The ministry issued corrective action plans on practical training to the relevant institutions, which then took the required measures. The aim is to improve students’ training experiences, ensure compliance with approved requirements and protect their rights.
MoHESR’s checks cover institutional licensing, accreditation of academic programmes, and the accuracy and transparency of advertisements and information provided to students. They also examine the quality of the educational process, academic integrity, the accuracy of data and records, and follow-up on corrective measures.
The ministry said these efforts align with Cabinet Resolution No. (143) of 2026 on the Regulation of Violations, Penalties and Administrative Measures Related to the Mandates and Services of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The regulation addresses licensing and accreditation, data accuracy, oversight and evaluation, academic integrity, practical training and academic advertising, with the protection of students’ and trainees’ rights as a central priority.
