The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has announced a new set of teacher recruitment and safeguarding regulations aimed at strengthening Dubai’s education sector. The updated framework ensures higher hiring standards, improved child protection measures, and greater accountability for both teachers and schools.
The move aligns with the UAE’s ongoing efforts to enhance educational quality and safety across private and international schools.
1. Appointment and Exit Rules
Under the new KHDA policy, teachers will now receive an official Appointment Notice, ensuring they can work at only one school at a time.
Transfers are permitted only at the end of a term or semester, minimizing classroom disruptions during the academic year.
When leaving a school, teachers must complete an Exit Survey, which helps the KHDA track transitions and maintain records of teaching staff across institutions.
2. Stricter Recruitment Standards
Before hiring, all Dubai schools are required to complete comprehensive background checks on every teaching candidate. The checks include:
- Deregistration list verification
- Minimum of two professional references (including the most recent employer)
- Criminal and safeguarding clearance from all countries lived in over the past 5–10 years
- Social media and online reputation review
- Verification of academic qualifications and CVs
These measures are designed to prevent hiring individuals with records of misconduct or safety concerns, reinforcing the city’s child protection standards.
3. Interview and Eligibility Requirements
Schools must now conduct panel interviews that include principals and at least one safeguarding-trained staff member.
For specialist teaching roles, a subject expert must also participate in the interview process.
To be eligible for a teaching role in Dubai, candidates must hold:
- A valid UAE residence visa
- Accredited and attested qualifications
- Police clearance certificates from the UAE and any previous countries of residence
- A signed KHDA code of conduct
4. Qualification and Deregistration Policy
All teachers must meet KHDA-approved qualification standards, with degrees recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) or MoHESR.
Current teachers who do not yet meet the new qualification criteria must upgrade their credentials by September 2028 or April 2029.
The KHDA has also introduced a Deregistration Policy, under which teachers can be permanently banned from teaching in Dubai for the following violations:
- Criminal convictions
- Child protection breaches
- Gross misconduct
- Repeated dishonesty or cultural insensitivity
5. Building a Safer, Higher-Standard Education System
These updated guidelines reflect Dubai’s commitment to maintaining internationally recognized standards in education, while ensuring the safety and well-being of students.
By prioritizing ethical recruitment, teacher accountability, and comprehensive vetting, the KHDA is reinforcing its vision of a transparent, trusted, and high-quality education ecosystem for all.
