Dubai introduces new rules for school staff termination and deregistration
Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has introduced strict new rules for private school staff recruitment, conduct, and termination. The measures, which apply to all KHDA-approved institutions, aim to improve teaching standards, safeguard students, and maintain Dubai’s reputation as a global hub for quality education.
The Staff Deregistration Technical Guide, now available on the KHDA website, outlines how schools should handle serious misconduct and repeated violations of professional standards. The rules take immediate effect and will be supported by training sessions for schools across the emirate.
Major violations leading to termination and deregistration
Under the new guidelines, certain behaviors will result in immediate termination and deregistration, including:
- Convictions for criminal offenses or violations of child safeguarding rules
- ·Gross professional misconduct affecting student safety or school integrity
- · Repeated unprofessional conduct, such as dishonesty or inappropriate social media use
- Culturally insensitive actions or behavior are harmful to the school’s reputation
Once deregistered, the individual’s KHDA Appointment Notice is revoked, and they are barred from applying for any position in Dubai’s private education sector—including schools, universities, early childhood centers, and vocational institutions.
New rules for teacher recruitment and qualifications
KHDA has introduced stricter recruitment standards for all private school teachers:
- Teachers must meet minimum qualification requirements and undergo thorough background checks.
- Police clearances from the UAE and countries of previous residence are mandatory.
- Schools must verify academic degrees and obtain professional references before hiring.
- Existing teachers have until 2028 to meet the new qualification standards.
A standardized code of conduct covering ethics, safeguarding, and cultural sensitivity will now be part of every staff induction process.
Tackling teacher turnover with the 90-day rule
To reduce mid-term staff changes, KHDA has introduced the 90-day rule:
- ·Teachers resigning mid-term must wait 90 days before joining another school.
- Resignations are allowed only at the end of a term or semester to minimize classroom disruption.
- A compulsory exit survey will collect data on teacher turnover to improve retention policies.
Focus on student safety and teacher support
KHDA emphasizes that the new rules are not just about enforcement but also about creating supportive environments for educators. Regular training on ethics, child safeguarding, and professional conduct will help staff meet the new expectations.
According to Dr. Amna Almaazmi, CEO of Growth and Human Development at KHDA: “By raising the bar for recruitment, conduct, and accountability, these guidelines help school leaders create safe, inclusive learning spaces while supporting teachers and protecting student well-being.”
Implementation and next steps
Schools will soon receive briefing sessions on effectively applying the new deregistration and termination framework. The KHDA aims to ensure that while misconduct is dealt with firmly, teachers also receive opportunities for professional growth and development wherever possible.
With these new rules, Dubai strengthens its commitment to delivering world-class education while ensuring the safety and well-being of every student in the emirate.
