MOHESR Equivalency vs Translation

Translation converts your degree into Arabic. Equivalency evaluates whether it meets UAE standards. Most people only need translation. This guide explains when you need each — and when you need both.

Quick Answer: Private sector job? Translation only. Golden Visa, government job, or teaching? Both translation AND equivalency.

Translation vs Equivalency: Key Differences

MOJ Translation Only converts your document to Arabic. It takes same day to 24 hours. Use cases include private sector employment, MOHRE work permit, free zone company employment, bank account opening, HR records, and initial job applications.

MOHESR Equivalency is official degree recognition. It takes 2-4 weeks and costs AED 330 (gov fee) plus translation. Use cases include Golden Visa (skilled category), government sector jobs, teaching positions (MOE), engineering registration (SCE), UAE university enrollment, and some professional licensing.

Translation is always required. Equivalency is additional and only needed for specific purposes. If you need equivalency, you still need translation first — MOHESR requires MOJ-certified Arabic translation as part of the equivalency application.

When You Need Equivalency

• Golden Visa — The skilled employee category requires MOHESR equivalency confirming your degree is bachelor’s or higher. Your degree field must also match your employment.
• Government Jobs — Federal and local government positions require equivalency as part of the hiring process. This applies to ministries, municipalities, and government-owned entities.
• Teaching Positions — Ministry of Education (MOE) schools require equivalency. Private schools under KHDA may have different requirements depending on curriculum.
• Engineering Registration — Society of Engineers (SCE) registration requires degree equivalency for practicing engineers.
• UAE University Enrollment — Continuing education in UAE universities requires equivalency of your previous qualifications before admission.
• Some Healthcare Roles — While DHA has its own evaluation process, some healthcare administrative roles may require MOHESR equivalency in addition to professional licensing.

When Translation Alone Is Sufficient

For most employment situations, MOJ-certified translation is all you need. MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources) accepts translated degrees for work permit processing without requiring equivalency.

• Private Sector Employment — Companies in mainland Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Emirates
• Free Zone Companies — DIFC, DMCC, JAFZA, and other free zone employers
• MOHRE Work Permits — Standard employment visa processing
• Bank Requirements — Account opening, loans, and banking verification
• HR Records — Internal company documentation and compliance
• Job Applications — Submitting qualifications to potential employers

Required Documents for Equivalency

Additional Documents (Some Cases)

• Thesis abstract: For master’s and PhD degrees
• Course descriptions: If MOHESR requests detailed curriculum information
• University accreditation letter: For degrees from less-known institutions
• Previous degree: For postgraduate applications (bachelor’s for master’s applicants)

Equivalency Outcomes

MOHESR evaluates your degree and issues one of three outcomes:

• Full Equivalency — Your degree is recognized as equivalent to the UAE standard for that qualification level. Can proceed with Golden Visa, government jobs, etc.
• Partial Equivalency — Your degree is recognized at a lower level than claimed. For example, a 3-year bachelor’s may be equated to a diploma. May or may not satisfy your specific requirement.
• Non-Equivalency — Your degree is not recognized. This typically happens with unaccredited institutions or degrees that do not meet minimum standards. Cannot be used for purposes requiring equivalency.

If you receive partial or non-equivalency, you can appeal with additional documentation. Consider consulting with MOHESR directly or an education consultant before appealing.

How We Help

We provide the translation component required for MOHESR equivalency applications.

• MOJ-Certified Translation — Arabic translation of degree certificate and transcripts, as required by MOHESR
• Attestation Verification — We verify your documents have complete attestation before starting translation
• Same-Day Service — Standard translation in 24 hours. Express available for urgent applications
• Complete Package — Degree + transcripts translated together at package rates

Ready to apply for equivalency? Send us your attested degree and transcripts via WhatsApp for MOJ-certified translation.

Related guides: Degree Translation | Golden Visa | Attestation Guide | PhD and DBA Guide | Work Permit Degrees