How To Set Up A Higher Education Business In The UAE

Picture of Afreen Razak
Afreen Razak
April 17, 2025

The UAE’s higher education sector has witnessed significant growth and development in recent years, transforming it into a prominent industry. The country’s strategic location, favourable business environment, and increasing focus on education have attracted both domestic and international institutions.

Many universities in the UAE have established partnerships with renowned international institutions, offering students opportunities for joint degrees and study abroad programs. Simultaneously, the UAE’s growing population and increasing demand for skilled professionals have led to a rise in the number of students pursuing higher education. The UAE’s goal of becoming a global education hub presents both major opportunities, such as attracting international students and faculty. 

For entrepreneurs who want to enter this industry, here are the business activities you can choose under your license.

8530.00 – Higher education

Higher education is a broad term that encompasses all levels of education beyond secondary school, including undergraduate studies, graduate studies, and professional studies. Higher education institutions include universities, colleges, and technical schools. A business in this field would need to focus on curriculum development, faculty recruitment, student admissions, student services, research and innovation, campus operations, fundraising, and partnerships. 

This business excludes adult education as defined by general continuing education and continuing vocational education and training for any profession.

Third-party Approval: This business activity requires third-party approval from the Ministry of Education (Sharjah), prior to obtaining your trade license.

Filing of Economic Substance Returns: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.

8530.05 – Higher education college and studies, Online education delivery, Corporate Training

Higher education colleges and studies encompass a wide range of academic programs and degrees beyond secondary school. These institutions offer courses in various fields, including arts, sciences, humanities, engineering, business, and more. Industries would need to develop and deliver comprehensive curricula that meet educational standards and industry requirements. Along with this, hiring faculty staff, conducting campus operations and student support, and research are key aspects of a higher education institute. 

This business excludes adult education as defined by general continuing education and continuing vocational education and training for any profession.

Third-party Approval: This business activity does not require third-party approval.

Filing of Economic Substance Returns: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.

8530.06 – Higher Education Training, Academic Tutoring, Education Services

These three terms encompass various aspects of the education industry, each with its own specific focus and activities. Higher education training refers to programs designed to enhance the skills, knowledge, and qualifications of individuals at the post-secondary level. It can include professional development and specialised training. Academic tutoring involves providing personalised instruction to help students understand and master academic subjects. Tutors can work with students individually or in small groups, focusing on areas where they need extra support. Education services, meanwhile, encompass a wide range of activities related to education, including consulting, educational technology, research, and educational policy.

This business excludes adult education as defined by general continuing education and continuing vocational education and training for any profession.

Third-party Approval: This business activity does not require third-party approval.

Filing of Economic Substance Returns: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.

8530.07 – Higher education and delivery, Online Education delivery, Corporate Training

Businesses in this sector encompass various aspects of the education industry, each with its own specific focus and activities. Higher education and delivery refers to the process of providing academic instruction and programs at a post-secondary level. Online education, also known as distance learning or e-learning, involves delivering educational content and instruction through digital platforms. It offers flexibility and accessibility to learners who cannot or prefer not to attend traditional classroom-based courses.

Corporate training refers to educational programs designed to enhance the skills, knowledge, and performance of employees within an organisation. It can be delivered in various formats, including classroom-based training, online courses, and on-the-job training.

This business excludes adult education as defined by general continuing education and continuing vocational education and training for any profession.

Third-party Approval: This business activity does not require third-party approval.

Filing of Economic Substance Returns: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.


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