Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has introduced new requirements for teachers in private schools, aiming to enhance staff quality and reduce mid-year turnover. The guidelines cover qualifications, experience, conduct, and a 90-day rule for teachers who resign mid-term.
Under the new measures, all incoming teachers must meet KHDA-approved standards for qualifications, experience, and professional conduct. This includes teachers in Arabic and Islamic Studies.
Current teachers remaining at their existing schools are given until September 2028 to meet the new criteria. Schools starting the academic year in April have an extended deadline of April 2029.
A notable addition is the 90-day restriction for teachers and school leaders leaving mid-term. Educators who resign during an academic term or semester must wait 90 days before joining another private school in Dubai.
This rule does not apply to teachers who complete their notice period and leave at the end of a term or semester, aiming to ensure continuity for students.
Dr Amna Almaazmi, CEO of Growth and Human Development at KHDA, emphasised the importance of these reforms, saying, “These new guidelines represent a major step toward creating a stable and supportive environment for teachers and school communities, while ensuring all educators meet consistent, high-quality standards.”
“By reinforcing clear expectations for recruitment, conduct, and accountability, the guides support school leaders, protect student well-being, and strengthen Dubai’s position as a global destination for exceptional education and talent.”
The KHDA has released the Technical Guide for Appointing Teaching Staff in Private Schools in Dubai, which applies to all private schools and is effective immediately for new and transferring educators. The guide aims to improve teacher quality, reduce mid-year turnover, and formalise staff appointments.
Key features of the guide include mandatory appointment notices. Schools must apply for an Appointment Notice for every teacher and school leader, replacing the previous Appointment Letter. This formalises commitments to schools and is required if a teacher moves to another private school in Dubai.
In addition, all departing staff must complete a KHDA Exit Survey before receiving a new Appointment Notice. The survey data will help KHDA and schools better understand staff turnover trends and inform future policies.
The guide also reinforces professional conduct and safeguarding measures. All educators must undergo induction training covering safeguarding, inclusion, UAE values, and ethics. A signed Code of Conduct is mandatory for all teachers, ensuring consistent standards of professionalism.
Briefing sessions for schools, HR professionals, and governing boards are planned to support implementation of these new measures. KHDA hopes the reforms will strengthen teacher retention, ensure student well-being, and reinforce Dubai’s reputation as a hub for high-quality education.
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