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Universities

National Defense College

The National Defense College was established in Abu Dhabi by Federal Law Decree No. 1 of 2012. It reports to the General Headquarters of the Armed Forces and prepares military and civilian leaders to identify and assess national, regional and international security challenges.

Updated October 2026 · Figures checked 22 October 2026

Established by federal law decree
20121
Established by federal law decree

National Defense College

At a glance

At a glance
Item Detail
Name in Arabic كلية الدفاع الوطني
Emirate Abu Dhabi
Location Abu Dhabi
Founded 2012
Type Graduate college of the UAE Armed Forces
Website www.ndc.ac.ae
Licence Active in the CAA register

Source: Commission for Academic Accreditation: register entry, National Defense College4

The National Defence Course

Graduates of the course receive a certificate in strategic management of state resources and a master's degree in strategic and security studies.2

Before you rely on a degree

An active institutional licence does not mean every programme is accredited. Check the exact programme in the CAA register before enrolling, or before relying on a degree when hiring.4

Sources

  1. National Defense College: Presidential decree
  2. National Defense College: National Defence Course
  3. Commission for Academic Accreditation: NDC executive summary (PDF)
  4. Commission for Academic Accreditation: register entry, National Defense College

Figures checked 22 October 2026. Prepared by Invest-Emirates.ae for general information. It is not investment, tax or legal advice; please confirm details with a qualified adviser before acting.

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