The United Arab Emirates has introduced a major improvement in processing professional qualification approvals by reducing the waiting time from 60 days to just 10 days. This change comes as part of the government’s wider effort to improve efficiency. Support talent mobility and foster rapid economic growth in a competitive global environment.
The move is expected to benefit thousands of professionals, employers and foreign talent seeking recognition of their qualifications in the UAE. It addresses long-standing concerns about processing delays. Aligns with broader strategic goals to make the UAE one of the fastest and most business-friendly countries in the world.
This article explains the changes the expected impact on professionals and employers and the reasoning behind this administrative reform.
What Has Changed
Previously, professionals waiting for qualification approval in the UAE often faced an approval period of up to 60 days. This could delay job startups, promotions, residency status adjustments and other career-critical outcomes.
Under the new rule, professional qualifications are now expected to be reviewed and approved within 10 working days. This reduction covers a broad range of regulated professions that require official recognition of academic, technical or professional credentials.
The streamlined process applies to residents and foreign workers whose qualifications must be validated. Before they can begin their careers or continue professional practice in the UAE.
Why the Change Matters
Faster Entry into the Workforce
For professionals moving to the UAE for work, quicker credential approval means faster onboarding and less uncertainty during job transitions. This is particularly valuable for in-demand sectors such as healthcare, engineering, education, finance and technology.
Reducing administrative wait times helps companies hire skilled personnel faster and supports business continuity.
Boost to Business Competitiveness
Companies benefit from the reform by being able to deploy qualified staff more quickly. This enables businesses to scale up operations without delays linked to bureaucratic processes.
Small and medium enterprises stand to gain especially as they often face tighter timelines for project delivery and workforce planning.
How the Reform Works
The new approval timeline is supported by:
- Enhanced digital platforms that accelerate application review
- Improved coordination between licensing authorities and professional bodies
- Automated document verification systems
- Clearer guidelines for applicants to fulfill requirements accurately
Officials say that these changes help ensure that qualified professionals are recognised quickly. Without compromising the integrity or quality of the assessment process.
Expected Benefits for Professionals
Greater Career Flexibility
Professionals currently working outside the UAE can now plan relocations with more certainty knowing that their credentials will be recognised quickly.
UAE residents already in professional roles will be able to apply for promotions or job changes with minimal approval delays.
Support for High-Skill Sectors
Sectors such as information technology, healthcare, civil engineering and finance require specialised skills and certifications. The fast-track approval process helps meet high demand for qualified talent in these areas.
Improved Quality of Life
Quick processing reduces stress on expatriates and local professionals alike, supporting a smoother career journey and reducing waiting times for employment contracts, licenses and residency processing.
Government Goals and Broader Strategy
The UAE government has made it a priority to reduce administrative hurdles, attract global talent and enhance economic competitiveness. This reform aligns with national strategies such as:
Vision 2031 for economic diversification
Efforts to promote the UAE as a global talent hub Digital government and smart public services initiatives
By cutting waiting times and simplifying procedures, the government reinforces its commitment to supporting individual career development and business growth.
Employer Reactions
Many employers, particularly in sectors struggling to fill specialised roles, have welcomed the change. They describe the previous 60-day waiting period as a bottleneck that slowed project timelines and increased recruitment costs.
With approvals now expected in 10 days, companies can make demand-driven hiring decisions more confidently and respond quickly to market shifts.
HR leaders have said the change will improve the UAE’s attractiveness to international talent considering relocation.
Professional Feedback
Professionals who have encountered long waiting times in the past have responded positively to the reform. Many employees and job seekers appreciate the quicker turnaround as it can affect salary negotiations, contract start dates and even family relocation plans.
According to some applicants, faster approval also reduces uncertainty and allows for more effective career planning.
Impact on Foreign Talent Inflow
The reform could further enhance the UAE’s attractiveness as a destination for foreign talent. Qualified professionals from around the world may now see the UAE as a more efficient place to validate their credentials and begin working.
By improving the quality of the regulatory environment, the UAE reinforces its position as a gateway for global expertise and highly skilled workers.
Challenges and Considerations
While the reduction in approval time is largely positive, experts highlight a few considerations:
Ensuring that quality of qualification review remains high despite faster processing Updating international agreements on certification reciprocity
Maintaining clear communication with applicants to reduce errors or resubmissions
Officials say that the improved digital processes and better coordination will help mitigate these challenges.
Future Implications
The new policy sets a precedent for administrative reform in other areas that affect residents and businesses, such as licensing, permits and immigration-related services.
Observers believe that similar efficiency gains can lead to:
Faster business setup approvals Simplified trade and customs paperwork Improved investor confidence
All of these contribute to an environment that values ease of doing business and economic agility.
Conclusion
The UAE’s decision to cut professional qualification approval time from 60 days to 10 days marks a significant step forward in public service reform. The change benefits professionals, employers and the wider economy by reducing waiting times, promoting efficient talent use and boosting confidence in the UAE’s regulatory environment.
This reform aligns with national strategies to attract global talent, support economic diversification and offer world class government services that meet the needs of a rapidly evolving modern workforce.
