The UAE is set to host the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) for the first time in December 2025, following a landmark agreement between the Japan Foundation and UAE University’s Continuing Education Center. This milestone marks a major step in strengthening cultural and educational ties between Japan and the Emirates.
In a major milestone for Japanese language education in the Gulf region, the United Arab Emirates is set to host the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) for the first time this December. The development marks a significant step forward in the UAE's educational and cultural ties with Japan, allowing local learners to participate in the globally recognised exam without the need to travel abroad.
The historic announcement follows the signing of a strategic agreement between the Japan Foundation and the Continuing Education Center (CEC) at UAE University (UAEU), paving the way for the official administration of the JLPT at the CEC’s Al Ain campus. The agreement was formalised recently and announced through a statement by the Embassy of Japan in the UAE.
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The introduction of the JLPT in the UAE is expected to have a transformative impact on Japanese language learners across the country and the broader Gulf region. For years, aspiring JLPT candidates in the UAE had to travel to neighbouring countries or even further abroad to sit for the test. Now, they will have the convenience of taking the exam domestically, eliminating both logistical and financial barriers.
The first JLPT session in the UAE is scheduled for December 7, 2025, with applications being accepted from July 15 to August 15, 2025. Updates, registration details, and exam-related information will be shared through the official social media platforms of both the CEC and the Embassy of Japan in the UAE.
Speaking about the development, a representative from the Embassy of Japan stated, “This is a significant moment for Japanese language education in the Middle East. The UAE’s inclusion as an official JLPT test centre reflects the rising interest in Japan’s language and culture among Emirati residents and strengthens our educational cooperation.”
The Japanese Language Proficiency Test is an internationally accredited certification exam that evaluates and certifies the Japanese language skills of non-native speakers. Jointly developed by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services, the JLPT is held in over 80 countries and is widely recognised by academic institutions, government agencies, and businesses worldwide.
The test comprises five levels, from N5 (basic) to N1 (advanced), and assesses language ability in reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and listening skills. Passing higher-level exams is often a requirement for admission into Japanese universities or for securing employment with Japanese companies.
The launch of the JLPT in the UAE is part of a broader cultural and academic partnership between Japan and the Emirates. In recent years, both countries have ramped up efforts to promote mutual understanding through student exchange programmes, language courses, cultural events, and collaborative academic research.
“This initiative highlights the growing interest in Japanese culture across the Emirates, from anime and cuisine to traditional arts and literature,” said a spokesperson from the CEC. “By making the JLPT available locally, we are not only providing our learners with easier access to international certification but also deepening the bridge of knowledge and cooperation between our two nations.”
The Continuing Education Center at UAEU has been instrumental in promoting lifelong learning and global languages in the UAE. With the new partnership, the CEC expands its language offerings to include internationally certified Japanese instruction and testing, setting a precedent for future educational ventures.
The move is also expected to encourage more institutions across the UAE to offer Japanese language instruction as part of their curricula. With international certification now available locally, schools, universities, and training centres may see a surge in enrolment for Japanese language courses.
Students and professionals in fields such as international business, tourism, technology, and diplomacy stand to benefit from gaining Japanese language credentials, opening up new avenues for study and employment in Japan and with Japanese firms operating globally.
“This is an exciting opportunity for students who are passionate about Japanese language and culture,” said Dr. Fatima Al Nuaimi, a linguistics professor at UAEU. “Language is a powerful tool of diplomacy and cultural exchange. Offering the JLPT here in the UAE makes it easier for learners to pursue their dreams and connect with Japanese society on a deeper level.”
The introduction of the JLPT is more than just an educational initiative—it is a cultural milestone that speaks to the UAE’s growing role as a regional hub for global learning and exchange. As the Emirates continues to diversify its economy and develop its knowledge sectors, fostering cross-cultural competencies through language education becomes increasingly vital.
The JLPT launch also aligns with the UAE's vision of enhancing global partnerships and building a diversified, knowledge-based economy through education and innovation.
With preparations underway for the first test session in December, educators, students, and language enthusiasts across the UAE are expressing enthusiasm for this new opportunity. The collaboration between the Japan Foundation and UAEU’s CEC is expected to be the first of many initiatives aimed at expanding Japanese language and cultural education in the region.
For updates on the JLPT registration process, interested candidates are encouraged to follow the Continuing Education Center – UAEU and the Embassy of Japan in the UAE on their official social media channels.
