Abu Dhabi Private Schools to Hire Over 2,000 Emirati Teachers in Five Years

Abu Dhabi is set to expand Emirati representation in private school classrooms, with more than 2,000 UAE nationals expected to enter the teaching workforce over the next five years.

The initiative follows a new Emiratisation policy introduced by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK).

It brings together government bodies, national talent programmes and private education providers to create clearer routes into teaching careers.

The plan aims to strengthen the quality of education while encouraging more Emiratis to pursue long-term professional opportunities in the sector.

Five Private Education Groups Join the Initiative

The policy is supported by five major education operators: Taaleem, SABIS, GEMS Education, International Community Schools and Liwa Education.

Each organisation has committed to recruiting Emirati educators, with hiring targets ranging from more than 61 positions at Liwa Education to over 200 at Taaleem.

The recruitment drive will initially focus on Social Studies, Arabic and Islamic Studies.

The participating groups will work with ADEK to develop practical approaches to recruitment, training and placement, helping schools gradually increase the number of Emirati teachers.

Training and Financial Support for Future Teachers

The initiative combines recruitment opportunities with training and professional development to help candidates qualify for classroom roles.

ADEK is working with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council and the Emirates College for Advanced Education to support this effort.

Programmes such as Midad and Kon Moallim provide pathways for people interested in entering the teaching profession.

Eligible participants in the Teachers Program may also receive a monthly financial incentive of up to AED 4,000 during training through the NAFIS programme.

Building a Stronger Emirati Teaching Workforce

The new policy is designed to create sustainable teaching careers for UAE nationals while helping private schools access qualified local talent.

It also aims to strengthen students’ connection with UAE identity, culture and heritage through classroom learning.

Alongside recruitment, the programme supports professional standards, inclusive education and improved student wellbeing.

By connecting employers with training and employment pathways, Abu Dhabi aims to develop a more diverse and future-ready education workforce while opening additional opportunities for Emiratis across the private education sector.