Sitting for ACCA examinations requires careful planning, and understanding the available exam centres in the UAE is an essential part of this preparation. The United Arab Emirates offers multiple examination venues across different emirates, providing candidates with convenient options based on their location and preferences.
Abu Dhabi Examination Venues
The capital city hosts several established ACCA exam centres that serve candidates in Abu Dhabi and surrounding areas:
Abu Dhabi University, situated in the Khalifa City area, offers modern facilities and is conveniently accessible from most residential neighbourhoods. The venue provides ample parking and is equipped with comfortable examination halls designed to minimise distractions.
British Council Abu Dhabi, situated in the downtown area, is renowned for its professional administration and well-organised facilities. The centre implements strict examination protocols that align perfectly with ACCA standards.
Dubai Examination Facilities
Dubai offers the highest number of ACCA exam centres in the UAE, catering to the emirate’s large population of finance professionals and students:
Knowledge Village Centres Multiple approved examination venues operate within Dubai Knowledge Village, creating a centralised hub for professional examinations. These centres are particularly convenient for candidates working or studying in the Dubai Internet City, Media City, and Marina areas.
The British Council Dubai, located in Bur Dubai, is an established centre that conducts both paper-based and computer-based ACCA examinations. The venue is known for its efficient organisation and adherence to examination standards.
Emirates Institute for Banking and Financial Studies. This specialised centre in Dubai provides excellent facilities for finance-related examinations, including dedicated computer labs for CBE (Computer-Based Examinations).
Sharjah Testing Locations
For candidates based in Sharjah and the northern emirates, several convenient options exist:
University of Sharjah. This academic institution serves as an official examination centre with spacious halls and modern facilities. The campus environment provides a conducive atmosphere for concentrated examination performance.
Sharjah Professional Testing Centre, centrally located in the Al Majaz area, offers both paper-based and computer-based examinations in a professional setting.
Computer-Based Examination Facilities
The ACCA qualification includes papers that must be completed through computer-based examinations. Specialised CBE centres across the UAE include:
- Authorised training providers with CBE facilities
- Dedicated testing centres in major business districts
- University computer labs approved for professional examinations
These centres provide standardised computer systems with the required examination software pre-installed, ensuring a consistent testing experience.
Choosing the Right Examination Centre
When selecting among ACCA exam centres in the UAE, candidates should consider:
Proximity and Transportation Choose a centre that minimises commuting stress on examination day, considering traffic patterns and public transport availability.
Familiarity with the Location. Many candidates benefit from visiting their chosen centre before the examination date to become familiar with the environment and journey time.
Examination Environment Different centres have varying ambiences – some prefer university settings while others opt for professional testing centres. Consider which environment helps you perform at your best.
Availability for Your Specific Papers: Not all centres offer all examination types. Verify that your chosen venue supports the specific papers you need to complete.
Booking Procedures
Examination centre bookings open approximately two months before each examination session. Candidates must:
- Register through the ACCA global portal
- Select their preferred UAE examination centre
- Pay the applicable examination fees
- Receive confirmation of their booking
Popular centres often reach capacity quickly, particularly for March and September sessions, making early booking advisable.
The United Arab Emirates’ well-established network of ACCA exam centres provides candidates with excellent facilities to demonstrate their knowledge and skills under optimal conditions. By selecting the most appropriate venue for their circumstances, candidates can reduce examination day stress and focus entirely on their performance.
