Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has introduced new regulations aimed at enhancing the quality and stability of the emirate’s private education sector.
These measures, effective immediately, focus on teacher recruitment, professional conduct, and accountability.
Updated hiring standards
Under the new guidelines, all new teachers must meet KHDA-approved qualifications, experience, and conduct standards, including those teaching Arabic and Islamic Studies. Existing teachers are required to meet these standards by September 2028, or April 2029 for schools operating on an April academic cycle.
Schools must now secure an official Appointment Notice for every teacher or school leader, formalising their commitment to the institution. This replaces the previous Appointment Letter and is required again if the educator moves to another Dubai private school.
90-day resignation rule
A significant change is the introduction of a 90-day cooling-off period for educators who resign mid-term. Regardless of whether they serve their notice period, these educators must wait 90 days before joining another school. This rule does not apply to staff who leave at the end of a term.
Exit surveys and ethics training
Departing teachers and leaders are now required to complete a KHDA Exit Survey before moving to a new role. This initiative aims to help the regulator track turnover patterns and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, all educators must complete induction modules on safeguarding, inclusion, UAE values, and professional ethics. Signing KHDA’s Code of Conduct is now mandatory for all teaching staff.
Deregistration procedures
Alongside the hiring framework, KHDA has introduced a Staff Deregistration Technical Guide. This establishes clear procedures for removing educators found guilty of serious misconduct.
Deregistration means an individual is barred from working at any KHDA-regulated private school, early childhood centre, university, or vocational institute in Dubai. Their Appointment Notice is revoked, and they cannot reapply for future roles.
Implementation and compliance
Both guides are available on the KHDA website, with briefing sessions planned for educators, HR managers, and school boards to ensure smooth implementation and compliance. These measures are part of a broader effort to build an agile, inclusive, and future-ready education system where both students and educators can thrive.
