Dubai Schools Welcome New KHDA Teacher Rules
Dubai Schools Welcome KHDA’s New Teacher Appointment and Deregistration Rules
Dubai, September 2025 – Private schools across Dubai have welcomed the Knowledge and Human Development Authority’s (KHDA) new regulations on teacher appointment and staff deregistration, calling them a transformative step in strengthening the emirate’s education system. The rules, issued through KHDA’s Technical Guides, aim to raise professional standards, enhance accountability, and protect student welfare.
The 90-Day Rule: Reducing Mid-Term Disruptions
A key feature of the new framework is the 90-day cooling-off period for teachers resigning mid-term. This measure ensures classroom stability by allowing schools adequate time to arrange qualified replacements. It also encourages teachers to plan career moves responsibly.
Luydmyla Klykova, Principal of Hampton Heights International School, described it as a “balanced solution” that safeguards students’ learning while respecting teachers’ professional needs.
Building Trust with Parents and Communities
Punit MK Vasu, CEO of The Indian High Group of Schools, highlighted the framework’s role in creating fairness and transparency. Mandatory exit surveys, stricter qualification requirements, and the deregistration of staff guilty of misconduct help maintain integrity in classrooms, reassure parents, and foster trust across school communities.
Raising Standards and Supporting Educators
The KHDA rules apply to both new and existing teachers, requiring approved qualifications, professional experience, and conduct guidelines. Teachers of Arabic and Islamic Studies are expected to comply by September 2028 (or April 2029 for schools following the April cycle).
Shorouk Al Redha, Chief People Officer at Aldar Education, said:
“Retention of skilled educators means consistency in classrooms, giving students transformative learning experiences.”
Well-being, Safety, and Professional Growth
Deepa Balasubramanian, Group Head of People & Culture at LEAMS Education, praised the guidelines for balancing well-being, accountability, and high-quality education. Measures such as mandatory induction training, structured mentorship programmes, and standardised background checks not only support teachers’ professional growth but also enhance transparency and parental confidence.
Promoting Integrity and Ethical Teaching
The Staff Deregistration Technical Guide outlines procedures for addressing misconduct. Dr Jinto Sebastian, Principal of The Apple International School, welcomed this initiative, emphasizing that clear codes of conduct foster a culture of integrity, safety, and continuous improvement in classrooms.
Collaborating for Smooth Implementation
Education providers, including GEMS Education, are working closely with KHDA to ensure effective adoption of the rules. A GEMS spokesperson confirmed the group is integrating the guidelines across operations to ensure full compliance.
Conclusion: A Future-Ready Education System
School leaders agree that KHDA’s new teacher appointment and deregistration framework is about more than regulations—it is about creating a stable, ethical, and professional education system. By ensuring classroom continuity, safeguarding students, and supporting teacher growth, the reforms strengthen trust between schools, parents, and communities.
As Dubai continues to position itself as a global hub for education, KHDA’s rules signal a clear commitment: to provide students with a safe, consistent, and high-quality learning environment, while empowering educators to thrive professionally.