DUBAI 18 July 2019: The UAE is one of the world’s fastest adopters of computer-delivered IELTS testing, according to the British Council. IELTS – the high-stakes English language test – introduced its computer-delivered version earlier this year.
The UAE now ranks second place globally for adoption of the new format, behind China in first place and in front of India, placing third.
To meet the surge in demand, the British Council has opened six computer-delivered IELTS test centres across four cities in the UAE – Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Al Ain. In fact, Dubai has one of the highest conversion rates of computer-delivered IELTS, with 24% of applicants opting for the new format since its launch.
According to the British Council, the increasing demand for English proficiency testing in the UAE correlates with government initiatives such as Vision 2021, which aim to diversify and grow the economy. English is recognised as a gateway skill for future careers, a critical factor in facilitating business across borders and a way to empower the pool of Emirati talent by providing them with the necessary tools to compete in a global workforce.
Proficiency Score
While the UAE has the highest English proficiency score of the GCC countries, scoring 47.27 on the EF English Proficiency Index, it still has significant room for improvement when compared to global benchmarks. English training and vocational upskilling will be essential for the transformation of the country into a knowledge-based economy.
Deep Adhikari, Director Examinations Gulf South at British Council commented: “Computer-delivered IELTSÔ is already increasing convenience, mobility and choice for all test takers in the UAE and we are delighted that this new format has been welcomed. We are dedicated to supporting the development of English language across the country, providing youth with skills for the future. The UAE is a global hub where international companies want to set up headquarters, where tourists want to visit and where expats look to build a career. To reap the benefits of this global connectivity, the next generation of Emirati leaders need to be able to converse fluently in English with their counterparts around the world – and English proficiency testing is an essential path to achieve this.”
Future Skills
British Council released a white paper on Future Skills last year, outlining the opportunities and challenges for the UAE youth, reporting that many graduates lack technical skills including English language – despite the fact that 75% of people across business sectors believe that a solid foundation in STEM related qualifications and English are key for the future. Proactively growing UAE talent with these skills is an approach driven by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, to meet an increased demand for highly skilled workers. With an English language qualification such as IELTS, UAE Nationals can prove their skillset and gain entry into university places around the world.
IELTS examinations help young people to prove their English ability and unlock their future aspirations – whether that’s for their career, study or migration. It is the world’s most popular English proficiency test, with three million people opting for IELTS examinations worldwide.
