Rabdan Academy Makes History With Top US Accreditation

Rabdan Academy has reached a historic milestone after officially securing accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), one of the most respected and influential higher education accrediting bodies in the United States. The recognition places the Abu Dhabi-based institution among a select group of globally trusted universities that meet the highest standards of academic quality and institutional governance.

With this achievement, Rabdan Academy becomes the first government higher education institution in the UAE to receive SACSCOC accreditation. It is also the first specialised institution in the world, focused on defence, security and crisis management, to earn this internationally recognised status. The accreditation confirms that the academy’s academic framework, operational systems and student services align with globally accepted benchmarks for excellence in higher education.

The milestone follows an intensive evaluation process that began with Rabdan Academy’s candidacy announcement in December 2024. A delegation of nine international experts conducted a comprehensive on-site review, assessing governance structures, academic programme effectiveness, student support services and overall institutional performance. The successful completion of this process cleared the way for full accreditation.

SACSCOC accreditation is widely regarded as a gold standard in higher education. It applies to institutions offering bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, including those delivered through distance learning and direct assessment models. Institutions holding this accreditation demonstrate clear educational objectives, sufficient academic and financial resources, and strong systems to measure learning outcomes and ensure continuous improvement.

For students, the accreditation strengthens the global recognition of Rabdan Academy’s degrees. It supports smoother credit transfers to accredited institutions worldwide and enhances graduates’ academic and professional mobility. The recognition also reinforces confidence among employers, reflecting the academy’s strong academic environment and internationally qualified faculty.

The accreditation further consolidates Rabdan Academy’s position as a global hub for education, research and training in safety, security, defence, emergency preparedness and crisis management. It highlights the academy’s commitment to maintaining international standards while contributing to the development of future leaders in critical national and global security fields.

By earning SACSCOC accreditation, Rabdan Academy not only elevates its international standing but also sets a new benchmark for specialised higher education institutions in the region and beyond.