Abu Dhabi, UAE — Schools across Abu Dhabi must now implement a structured Physical Education (PE) curriculum led by qualified teachers, following a new policy introduced by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK).
The move aims to standardize PE instruction and promote fitness among students, addressing previous gaps that allowed unqualified coaches to manage classes without a formal curriculum.
Under the new policy, which is part of a comprehensive set of 39 regulations introduced last September, schools are required to align their PE programs with a physical literacy framework.
This ensures that every student engages in at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. The regulations are set to become mandatory by September 2026, with non-compliance potentially resulting in fines.
Eliminating Loopholes and Ensuring Participation
One of the most significant changes is the removal of a long-standing loophole that permitted students to opt out of PE with a simple note from their parents.
ADEK’s new guidelines mandate that schools provide alternative options or accommodations for students who cannot or do not wish to participate in certain activities due to personal comfort or social norms.
“Previously, PE teacher qualifications were not regulated. A coach or any instructor could be put in charge, and there was no structured curriculum,” said Sylvie Wald, Education Policy Office Director at ADEK. “Now, we are saying no — it has to be structured.”
Wald highlighted that many students, particularly girls, often avoided PE classes due to discomfort or concerns about mixed-gender environments.
“We had a lot of students who did not want to take part in PE, sometimes just because they don’t want to get sweaty, but other times because they were not comfortable — especially with girls you see this happening. This is absolutely detrimental to their health,” she added.
Inclusive Solutions for Diverse Needs
To address these concerns, ADEK is requiring schools to offer alternatives rather than allowing students to opt out entirely.
This could include separate PE sections, privacy screens, or different physical activities to ensure all students can participate comfortably. The goal is to make PE not just a mandatory aspect of education but an inclusive one.
While most schools in Abu Dhabi already have PE programs that offer a range of sports, the new regulations aim to create uniformity and elevate standards.
Wald emphasized that prior to this policy, there was no official PE school policy in Abu Dhabi — each school followed its own approach based on different international curricula, such as French or American systems.
“In private schools alone, we had 16 different curricula, each addressing PE differently. Now, we’ve stepped up and said that’s not enough,” she explained.
A Move Towards Better Health Outcomes
By introducing a structured and inclusive PE curriculum, ADEK aims to foster healthier lifestyles among students and reduce the risks of sedentary habits.
The policy reflects a growing awareness of the importance of physical education in combating lifestyle-related health issues, particularly among youth.
As the implementation deadline of September 2026 approaches, schools across Abu Dhabi will need to ensure compliance with ADEK’s new standards or face potential penalties.
The policy is seen as a significant step forward in enhancing the quality of education and promoting lifelong fitness habits among students in the emirate.