The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday urged Nepali students to properly verify the credibility of universities and training centres in the United Arab Emirates, especially those operating inside Free Zones, before travelling for higher studies.

In recent years, the UAE has become a popular destination for Nepali students. They have been enrolling in federal universities, provincial institutions registered under the seven emirates’ education ministries, and colleges and training centres based in Free Zones.

However, the ministry said it has been receiving complaints about institutions inside Free Zones not meeting the required standards. Students have reported that some colleges claiming to be affiliated with foreign universities have no such links.

Others are found operating without their own buildings, running classes from rented apartments for a few months before shifting students to irregular online sessions, the ministry said.

Several students have also complained that the institutions had promised job placements but later on left them to search for work on their own.

A group of affected students recently registered complaints to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology; and the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, asking for an investigation into Nepali education consultancies suspected of facilitating possible fraud.

The ministry has asked students to confirm whether the institutions they plan to join are officially recognised and listed by the relevant authorities. It has also reminded applicants to obtain a No Objection Letter from the Ministry of Education before leaving Nepal.

The statement added that these steps are necessary to avoid potential fraud and ensure students’ safety.