No tuition fee cuts for distance learning, KHDA confirms - Here is what Dubai parents need to know
With the majority of Dubai's private schools back on campus and others still working through the approval process to reopen, questions around fees have been front of mind for many families. KHDA has now issued clear guidance, confirming that the shift to distance learning does not entitle parents to reduced fees, but equally outlining the specific circumstances in which refunds must be provided.
Fees remain payable during distance learning
Under KHDA's registration and refund policy for private schools, schools delivering an approved distance learning programme are not required to reduce, discount, or waive any portion of their KHDA-approved tuition fees solely because education is being provided remotely. This applies whether the move online was triggered by a government-enforced closure, as was the case during the recent regional security situation, or any other circumstance that disrupts physical classroom learning.
The policy is explicit: tuition fees remain payable for any period during which the service was available and delivered, including when delivered through distance learning or any other alternative method approved by KHDA.
Crucially, a parent's decision not to engage with remote learning does not justify withholding or reducing fees. If a parent has concerns about the quality or delivery of teaching during the distance learning period, those concerns must be raised through the school's internal complaints process, and fees remain payable in full while any complaint is under review.
When refunds do apply
The policy draws a clear distinction between services that are delivered and services that are not. Tuition fees are calculated on a day-by-day basis, and from the point at which a school is genuinely unable to deliver its service, fees are no longer due. For any such period of non-delivery, parents are entitled to a refund, which must be agreed in writing between the school and the parent through one of three methods: a credit note applied against future tuition fees, with any remaining balance refunded if the student does not return; a transfer of the credit to a sibling enrolled or expected to enrol at the same school; or a full refund for the period during which services were not provided.
If a school suspends or reduces services voluntarily
Where a school temporarily suspends or reduces its services for reasons within its own control, rather than as a result of a government directive, additional obligations apply. The school must inform parents in writing as soon as the decision is made, stating clearly the reason and the expected duration. For any period where services are genuinely not provided, the school must compensate parents, whether through a fee credit, additional sessions once services resume, or a prorated refund. Whichever form of compensation is chosen must be agreed in writing.
Why some schools are still online
Some Dubai schools are continuing with distance learning because they are still working through the KHDA approval process required before they can reopen. Schools must complete five steps, including submitting a readiness form, attending training, signing a consent form, passing a safety inspection, and receiving final approval, before in-person classes can resume. Schools may reopen in phases, but all must be offering face-to-face learning alongside distance learning by April 27, in line with official guidelines.
Sources:
Khaleej Times — "No tuition fee cuts for distance learning, Dubai's KHDA clarifies" by Sahim Salim (April 21, 2026). Read the full article.
Gulf News — "KHDA update: No reduced tuition fee or refunds for distance learning in Dubai private schools" by Zainab Husain (April 21, 2026). Read the full article.
