Why These Changes?
- The reforms support UAE national strategies like We the UAE 2031 and Education 33 (E33), which emphasize discipline, digital readiness, national identity, and high educational standards.
- Authorities aim to reduce absenteeism and improve learning continuity, while balancing cultural and national subject learning with technology and digital literacy.
Attendance & Discipline: What’s New
| Feature | Rule / Detail |
| Warning System | A written warning is issued after one unexcused absence day. |
| Absence Limits | Maximum 5 unexcused absences per term, and 15 per academic year. Exceeding this may lead to repeating the year. |
| Special Counting of Absences | Absences on Fridays, or the days immediately before or after official public holidays, count as two days. |
| Parental Notification & Appeal | Parents will receive real-time alerts when a child misses school. They have five working days to appeal notifications about absences. |
| Support for Students | Schools must implement individual support plans for students with frequent absences. These may include counseling, catching up with digital materials, or remedial work. |
Curriculum, Language & Mandatory Subjects
The new academic year brings a revamped curriculum designed to foster both innovation and cultural identity.
- Arabic from Early Childhood: For children aged birth to six years, private schools and early childhood centres in Dubai must begin Arabic language education. Implementation begins with ages 4-6 in September 2025, with broader rollout following. The approach is play-based and culturally enriched.
- Mandatory National Subjects Increased: Private schools must adhere to stronger requirements for Arabic, Islamic Education, Social Studies, Moral Education, as detailed in KHDA’s mandatory subject guidelines. Increased instructional hours are required, separate classes for Arab vs non-Arab students for many of these subjects.
- Language of Instruction & Teacher Qualifications: Teachers in Arabic, Islamic Education, and Social Studies must have KHDA approval. The language of instruction for certain subjects for Arab students is Standard Arabic; non-Arabs follow their licensed curriculum but content must align with MoE/KHDA standards.
What This Means for Parents in Dubai?
For parents in Dubai, the new system requires a proactive approach. Understanding the roles of both the UAE Ministry of Education and local bodies like the KHDA is key.
- Check with Your School: Even if your child is in a private international or IB school, these rules (attendance caps, mandatory subjects) are increasingly being enforced. Confirm specific school policy for 2025-26.
- Plan Travel & Holidays Accordingly: Avoid unapproved absences. Even single days without approval can trigger warnings or worse.
- Documentation & Valid Excuses: Valid reasons such as illness, medical documentation, bereavement, or official events should be documented — to avoid being judged as unexcused.
- Support Learning at Home: With more national subject content (Arabic / Islamic etc.), parents could help via resources, tutoring, or language reinforcement at home.
- Stay Informed: Schools will send alerts; ensure your contact details are up to date. If you receive notices, know the right to appeal and the timelines.
FAQs: Your Quick Guide to the New UAE School Attendance Rules 2025–26
What is the official attendance limit for my child?
A student may have up to 15 days of unexcused absences per year before facing serious academic penalties.
What happens if my child exceeds 15 unexcused absences per year?
They may be required to repeat the academic year. Their file may also be referred to relevant authorities.
Are all private schools bound by these rules?
Yes, private schools in Dubai must follow KHDA/MoE guidelines for attendance limits and mandatory subjects. Some flexibility in adopting assessment models exists, but basic compliance is required.
Are private international schools affected by these new rules?
Yes, all private schools in the UAE must comply with the new attendance rules, although assessment and curricula may vary slightly.
Can absences on Fridays or around holidays be counted differently?
Yes, absences on Fridays or immediately before or after min or public holidays count as two days. This is to prevent misuse of holiday borders.
Can I take my child on a trip during the school term?
Unapproved leave is discouraged. You must submit a formal request to your school administration, but be aware that it may not be granted and could impact exam eligibility.
Will workload increase because of new subjects or changes?
Possibly. More national subject hours (Arabic etc.), and schools may incorporate new content. Students may have additional assessments or projects.
Will the new AI curriculum affect my child’s workload?
Yes, the curriculum will be integrated into existing subjects and will introduce new learning objectives, requiring students to develop new skills.
What qualifies as an excused absence?
Valid medical documentation, news of family bereavement, official or emergency events. Unapproved leave, family travel will usually be unexcused. Always notify the school in advance where possible.
Is Arabic mandatory for all expat students?
Yes, Arabic is a mandatory subject for all students, although the learning objectives and level of depth may differ for non-native speakers.
Additional Details & Notes
- Schools may phase certain elements in (e.g. early childhood Arabic, teacher qualification upgrades) over multiple years.
- KHDA’s guides require schools to separate Arab vs non-Arab students in classes for many of the mandatory national subjects. Combined classes are not permitted for Arabic first language, Islamic Education etc., for Arab students.
- There is increased KHDA oversight: inspections, enforcement of curriculum and staff qualifications when it comes to mandatory subjects.
Conclusion
These reforms mark an important shift in the UAE’s education system, emphasizing accountability, national identity, and balancing modern digital skills with cultural heritage. For parents in Dubai, preparedness means staying informed, engaging with your child’s school, understanding policies, and supporting your child both academically and culturally.
