Quality Resources: Arab Region

On this page, you will find a collection of quality resources with a focus on the Arab region.

Introduction

The Arab region, with its rich historical heritage, diverse cultural tapestry, and dynamic societies, has undergone a profound transformation of its higher education system in recent decades. In a period marked by rapid technological advancements and increasing globalization, Arab nations have acknowledged the central role of education in shaping their future trajectory. This region has made significant progress in both broadening access to higher education and establishing robust quality assurance and accreditation mechanisms.

A primary concern within the Arab higher education landscape has been the pursuit of excellence and ensuring educational quality. In response, numerous Arab countries have set up national agencies dedicated to quality assurance and accreditation. These agencies serve to maintain educational standards, foster continuous enhancement, and secure international recognition for their academic institutions. They play a critical role in the evaluation and accreditation of universities, academic programs, and institutions, thereby guaranteeing that they adhere to globally accepted quality benchmarks.

Online and distance higher education has emerged as a substantial component of this transformative journey. Like much of the world, the Arab region has witnessed a surge in the popularity and prevalence of online and distance learning. This shift arises from the need to address issues such as access, flexibility, and the growing demand for specialized skills. Consequently, some universities and educational institutions in the Arab world have embraced e-learning platforms, offering some online programs. 

Within this evolving landscape, it is imperative to delve into the accreditation standards and practices of some countries in the Arab region. The following resources give in-depth information on the accreditation practices in four central countries in the region.

United Arab Emirates

The Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) serves as the official Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education under the UAE Federal Government’s purview. In close cooperation with relevant local and international authorities within the Emirates, the CAA assumes a crucial leadership role in the preservation and advancement of higher education quality across the UAE. Its foremost mission is to uphold academic standards, ensuring the quality of educational opportunities provided to students in higher education institutions (HEIs) within the UAE.

The CAA is responsible for granting licenses to HEIs operating in the UAE and accrediting their academic programs that lead to degrees, diplomas, and certificates. To gain inclusion in the National Register and obtain Federal Recognition, any HEI offering post-secondary education in the UAE must first receive institutional licensure and accreditation for programs with a duration of at least one year. The spectrum of CAA accreditation encompasses a broad range of academic qualifications, including Diploma (Associate Degree), Higher Diploma (Advanced Diploma), Bachelor Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, Certificate, Master Degree, and Doctorate Degree. These degrees align with levels 5 to 10, as defined by the National Qualifications Framework (QFEmirates) of the UAE.

Resource: Standards for Institutional Licensure and Program Accreditation

Published by: Commission for Academic Accreditation, Ministry of Education, Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Language: English with some Arabic content

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The Education and Training Evaluation Commission (ETEC) in Saudi Arabia was founded in the year 2016 as an autonomous legal entity with financial and administrative ties to the Prime Minister’s office.  The primary goal is to enhance the quality and efficiency of qualifications, thus contributing to the service and development of the national economy. ETEC collaborates with various national stakeholders to ensure and oversee the quality and outcomes of educational and training institutions and programs within the Kingdom. Their vision is to be a prominent model for high-impact quality in education and training within Saudi Arabia, aiming to become a global leader that actively contributes to national development and economic growth. ETEC upholds the values of maximizing impact, efficiency, fostering cooperation and partnerships, and maintaining credibility and fairness.

Resource: Program accreditation documents

Published by: Education and Training Evaluation Commission (ETEC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Language: English with some Arabic content

Egypt

In 2007, the National Authority for Quality Assurance and Accreditation of Education, known as ‘NAQAAE,’ was established. NAQAAE operates as an independent public authority with a primary responsibility for evaluating the maintenance of academic standards within higher education institutions, including universities and colleges. In addition to this core function, NAQAAE offers various guidance resources to assist educational providers in ensuring students benefit from a high-quality higher education experience. Furthermore, NAQAAE is pivotal in providing technical support to identify national priorities, address capacity-building needs, increase awareness of available opportunities, and advocate adopting recommended programs.

Resource: Higher education accreditation publications and templates

Published by: National Authority for Quality Assurance and Accreditation of Education, Cairo, Egypt

Language: English with some Arabic content

Jordan

The Higher Education Accreditation Commission established in 2007 oversees the development of higher education, ensures its quality, and enhances its performance. As an entity that enjoys financial and administrative independence, the Commission has shouldered the responsibility outlined in the law to elevate the quality of higher education in Jordan and bring it in line with international standards.

Resource: Accreditation criteria

Published by: Higher Education Accreditation Commission, Amman, Jordan

Date: 2021

Language: English

Resource: Guides for Quality Assurance

Published by: Higher Education Accreditation Commission, Amman, Jordan

Date: 2021

Language: English