What is the CIPD Certification and How to Get It in Saudi Arabia & UAE

Whether you're already working in human resources (HR) in Saudi Arabia or the UAE, or you're considering a career in the field, you may have come across roles that emphasize the importance of professional HR certifications. With the growing demand for skilled HR professionals, obtaining the right certification can set you apart in the job market.  

One of the most recognized is the CIPD certification. But what exactly is CIPD, and how can you get it in Saudi Arabia and the UAE?

CIPD Certification in Saudi Arabia & UAE: What It Is & How Can You Get Certified?

What is the CIPD Certification?

The CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) is an internationally recognized professional organization for HR and people development. The CIPD certification helps HR professionals gain essential skills, knowledge, and best practices to succeed in their careers.

Why is CIPD Certification Important?

Getting a CIPD certification has many benefits, including:

• Better Job Opportunities: Many employers in Saudi Arabia and the GCC prefer candidates with CIPD certification for HR and management roles. 78% of HR professionals believe that holding a professional certification makes them more employable.
• Improved HR Skills: Learn global HR best practices and enhance your ability to perform HR tasks effectively. A survey found that 60% of HR managers consider CIPD-certified employees more capable of handling HR responsibilities.
• International Recognition: CIPD is widely accepted across the world, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. Over 160,000 HR professionals in 120+ countries hold CIPD membership.
• Career Growth: A study found that professionals with CIPD certification have a 12% higher earning potential than those without it. Additionally, 76% of HR leaders state that CIPD certification is a key factor in promotions.
• CIPD Membership: Join a global network of 160,000 HR professionals in 120+ countries and access exclusive learning resources. CIPD members report a 30% faster career progression compared to non-members.
  
  

CIPD Certification Levels: Which One is Right for You?

CIPD offers three levels of certification based on experience and career goals:

1. Foundation Level 3 (For Beginners)
   • No prior experience is required.
   • Suitable for HR assistants, HR coordinators, and entry-level HR professionals.
   • Covers HR basics, employment laws, and workplace ethics.
     
     
2. Intermediate Level 5 (For Experienced Professionals)
   • Best for HR specialists, employee relations officers, and talent development professionals.
   • Focuses on workforce planning, performance management, and HR strategy.
     
     
3. Advanced Level 7 (For Senior HR Professionals)
   • Designed for HR managers, consultants, and directors.
   • Covers HR strategy, leadership, and change management.

Each level offers different qualifications:

• Award: Short courses (a few months) focusing on specific HR topics.
• Certificate: In-depth study of HR subjects (usually 1 year).
• Diploma: A comprehensive HR qualification (can take 2 years or more).
  
  

How to Get a CIPD Certification in Saudi Arabia: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to earn your CIPD certification in Saudi Arabia:

1. Choose the Right Level

Select the level that matches your experience and career goals. If you are new to HR, start with Level 3. If you have some HR experience, go for Level 5. Senior HR professionals should choose Level 7.

2. Find an Approved Training Provider

Look for CIPD-approved training centers in Saudi Arabia. You can check the official CIPD website or contact local training institutes. Over 50 CIPD-accredited training providers operate in the GCC region.

3. Select a Training Program

Consider factors like:

• Course format (online, in-person, or self-paced learning)
• Duration (programs can last from 3 months to 2 years)
• Cost (fees vary by provider and program level)

The Saudi Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF) may offer financial support for CIPD Level 3 and 5 programs.

4. Complete Training & Assessments

Unlike other certifications, CIPD does not require a final exam. Instead, you must:

• Complete coursework and practical assignments
• Pass assessments based on real HR scenarios
  
  

5. Join CIPD Membership

You must register as a CIPD student member while studying. This gives you access to learning materials, research, and networking opportunities. After completing your course, your membership is upgraded to Associate or Foundation Member.

Common Questions About CIPD Certification

1. How much does CIPD certification cost?
   Prices vary based on level, training provider, and study format. Fees range from a few thousand SAR to 30,000+ SAR.
   
   
2. How long does it take to complete a CIPD certification?
   Duration depends on the level and study method:

• Award: A few months
• Certificate: Around 1 year
• Diploma: Up to 2 years
  
  

3. Can I study CIPD in Arabic? Most CIPD courses in Saudi Arabia are taught in English, but some providers may offer Arabic options.
   
   
4. Which is better: CIPD or SHRM? Both are highly respected HR certifications:

• CIPD: Follows UK and European HR practices
• SHRM: Focuses on US HR standards
• Choose based on your career goals and region of work
  
  

How to Get a CIPD Certification in the UAE?

If you are based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and want to get CIPD certified, follow these steps:

1. Identify the Right CIPD Level

• If you are new to HR, start with Level 3 (Foundation)
• If you have HR experience, choose Level 5 (Intermediate)
• If you are an HR manager or leader, go for Level 7 (Advanced)
  
  

2. Find an Approved Training Provider in the UAE

Several CIPD-accredited training institutes in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and across the UAE offer CIPD programs. You can check the CIPD website for a list of approved providers. Over 30 training centers in the UAE offer CIPD certification.

3. Enroll in a Training Program

Consider:

• Course format (online, in-person, or hybrid learning).
• Duration (ranging from a few months to two years).
• Cost (varies based on the provider and level of study).

Some training providers offer corporate sponsorships or installment payment plans.

4. Complete Coursework & Assessments

• CIPD certifications require completing assignments and practical HR projects.
• There are no final exams, but assessments must be passed.
  
  

5. Become a CIPD Member

While studying, you must register as a CIPD student member. After completing your program, your membership is upgraded based on your qualification level.