The UAE cancels the license of Horizon University College and stops all academic operations / Photo – File
The UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has revoked the license of Horizon University College in Ajman after identifying what it described as “serious and repeated violations” of the country’s higher education systems.The decision immediately prohibits the institution from carrying out any academic activity, including accepting new students, offering classes, awarding degrees or certificates, issuing academic transcripts, and promoting its programs. The ministry said that this step was taken to protect academic quality and ensure that students receive education that meets the national standards of the UAE.While the ministry did not publicly disclose the specific violations, it stressed that the action followed regulatory oversight and was necessary to maintain the integrity of the country’s higher education system.
Why did the Emirates cancel it? Horizon University license
According to the Ministry of Higher Education, the license was withdrawn after the institution committed serious and repeated violations of the regulations governing higher education institutions in the UAE.The ministry said the violations were significant enough to justify the complete withdrawal of the university’s operating license rather than imposing corrective measures or temporary penalties. As a result, Horizon University College is no longer licensed to conduct any higher education activities in the UAE.
The Ministry stressed that maintaining internationally recognized academic standards remains one of its most important priorities and that all licensed universities must adhere to strict quality assurance and governance requirements in all their operations.
The UAE Ministry clarifies the transitional plan
Realizing the impact the decision could have on students, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research announced that it has already begun coordination with relevant authorities to ensure learners are able to continue their education without interruption.The ministry said it works directly with accredited higher education institutions across the UAE to facilitate student transfers. These arrangements aim to minimize disruption to academic progress and allow students to continue studying on recognized programmes.Officials also confirmed that support measures are being put in place to assist affected students throughout the transition process, including coordination with receiving institutions regarding academic records and program continuity.This announcement aims to reassure students and parents that although the university’s operations have ceased, academic pathways will remain available through other licensed institutions.
Suspension of academic operations at Horizon College
Following its license revocation, Horizon University College was ordered to cease every aspect of its higher education operations.This includes:
- Teaching and academic education.
- New student admissions.
- Marketing and promotion of academic programs.
- Granting academic degrees and qualifications.
- Issuing official academic records and certificates.
The suspension effectively means that the institution can no longer operate as a recognized provider of higher education in the UAE.
Any future reopening will require regulatory approval under the country’s higher education framework.
The UAE enhances education standards
The latest executive action reflects the UAE government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight of universities and protect students by ensuring all institutions meet national academic and governance standards.The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research said that maintaining quality education remains central to its mission, adding that universities operating in the country are expected to maintain full compliance with licensing requirements, accreditation standards and regulatory obligations at all times.The Ministry stressed that although decisive measures have been taken against Horizon University College, protecting students remains the priority. By arranging transfers to accredited universities, the authorities hope to ensure that learners are able to complete their education with minimal disruption while maintaining confidence in the UAE’s higher education system.