Attestation
Certificate of Recognition in the UAE
The Certificate of Recognition, formerly the equivalency certificate, is what confirms your foreign degree is accepted in the UAE. Here is how it works in 2026.
What it is
A Certificate of Recognition is the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR)'s formal statement that a degree issued outside the UAE is genuine and equivalent to a UAE qualification at the same level. It was called an equivalency certificate until the Ministry renamed it in 2024, both names describe the same digital report.
The two-stage decision
- 1University recognitionThe awarding institution must be recognised by the Ministry.
- 2Qualification equivalencyYour specific degree is assessed and, if approved, recognised at the matching UAE level.
Attestation comes first
Your degree usually needs to be attested before recognition. We handle both, see the Certificate of Recognition service.
Key takeaways
Key takeaways: A Certificate of Recognition (ex-equivalency) is MOHESR's confirmation your foreign degree equals a UAE qualification, decided in two stages, usually after the degree is attested.
The two-stage assessment is the part people miss: MOHESR first checks the awarding institution is recognised, then assesses your specific qualification, so a recognised university is necessary but not on its own sufficient.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Certificate of Recognition?
MOHESR's formal statement that a foreign degree is genuine and equivalent to a UAE qualification. It was called an equivalency certificate until 2024.
Is it the same as an equivalency certificate?
Yes, the Ministry renamed the equivalency certificate to the Certificate of Recognition in 2024; the process is the same.
Is recognition the same as attestation?
No. Attestation legalises the document; recognition confirms the degree is academically equivalent to a UAE qualification. Attestation usually comes first.
How long does it take?
It depends on whether the degree is attested and the institution is recognised; the assessment has two stages.
Who needs it?
Regulated professions, teaching, healthcare and engineering, and some visa categories, on top of attestation.
What does it cost?
A flat service fee plus any Ministry charge at cost, confirmed before we start.
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