UAE requires all teachers to obtain an official teaching license through the Ministry of Education’s Teacher Licensing System (TLS). This ensures educators meet qualification and teaching standards.
The process involves submitting documents, completing training modules, and passing assessments. Teachers apply online through the TLS portal and receive a digital license upon completion.
This system maintains educational standards while providing official recognition of teaching competence in the UAE.
Who Regulates Teacher Licensing in the UAE?
The Ministry of Education (MOE) is the primary authority overseeing teacher licensing across all emirates. However, local bodies like the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai and the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) may have additional requirements.
All teachers must comply with MOE standards; however, if you work in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, you can expect a few extra steps.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum qualification: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) – All teachers must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university to qualify for UAE teaching license applications.
- Specialization in subject taught – Teachers must have studied the subject they plan to teach, with relevant coursework or a major in their degree program.
- Valid teaching qualification/license from home country (preferred) – Having an existing teaching certificate or license from your home country strengthens your application and may speed up the approval process.
UAE Teacher License Types
| License Type | What It Is | Given By | Valid For | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transitional License | Temporary license during the process | MOE | 1–3 years | Degree, teaching cert, documents, apply via TLS |
| Permanent License | Full license after passing all steps | MOE | 3 years (renewable) | Pass tests, training, and complete requirements |
Required Documents
- Valid passport and UAE visa copy – Submit clear copies of your passport and current UAE residence visa as proof of legal status in the country.
- Educational degrees (attested) – Provide university degrees verified by the UAE embassy or consulate in your home country and attested by relevant authorities.
- Transcript of records – Include official academic transcripts showing your grades and courses from all educational institutions attended.
- Experience certificates – Submit employment letters from previous schools or educational institutions confirming your teaching experience and job responsibilities.
- Police Clearance Certificate – Obtain a criminal background check from your home country’s police department, which must be valid within the last six months.
- Good conduct certificate – Provide a character reference letter from your previous employer or educational institution confirming your professional behavior.
- IELTS/TOEFL for English subjects (if applicable) – English language teachers must submit valid IELTS or TOEFL scores to prove language proficiency standards.
Teaching Licensing Process Overview
The teaching licensing process in the UAE begins with creating an account on the Ministry of Education’s Teacher Licensing System (TLS) portal, where you complete your online application by entering personal and professional details.
Once registered, you must upload all required documents, such as attested educational certificates, transcripts, Emirates ID, passport, and police clearance, directly to the portal.
Ministry officials then review and verify the authenticity of your credentials to ensure they meet UAE standards. If the system assigns it, you will also need to complete mandatory online training modules, which cover UAE education policies and teaching standards, before proceeding to the next steps of the licensing process.
Teacher Licensing Tests and KHDA Requirements
Pedagogy Assessment – Take an exam testing your knowledge of teaching methods, classroom management, and educational psychology principles.
Subject Specialization Test – Pass a subject-specific exam that evaluates your expertise in the subject you plan to teach.
Final evaluation and issuance of license – Receive your digital teaching license after successful completion of all requirements and final approval by MOE.
KHDA Requirements (Dubai Specific)
Minimum degree + teaching certificate – Hold both a bachelor’s degree and a recognized teaching qualification to work in Dubai schools.
Attested certificates from KHDA-recognized institutions – Submit degrees verified by institutions that KHDA officially recognizes for Dubai employment.
Moral conduct and medical fitness – Provide character certificates and pass medical examinations to confirm suitability for working with students.
Wrapping It Up
Obtaining your UAE teaching license is straightforward when you prepare the necessary documents and follow the correct procedures. The MOE’s TLS system ensures all teachers meet high standards, while regional authorities like KHDA and ADEK add local requirements.
Plan ahead and gather your attested documents early. The licensing process protects students and provides professional recognition in the UAE’s rapidly growing education sector.
