No school inspections for next year; how it will impact fees, ratings, quality checks
Private schools in Dubai will not undergo full inspections in the upcoming 2024-25 academic year, except for new schools in their third year. This directive from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) follows their latest inspection report release. The pause means the Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau (DSIB) will focus on specific areas and ongoing monitoring instead.
Schools must update their Self-Evaluation Form and online profiles routinely. They can request full inspections, subject to KHDA approval by July 5, 2024, with notifications expected in Term 2.
Fee adjustments will align with the school's latest inspection rating, needing KHDA approval. The Education Cost Index (ECI) of 2.6% in April 2024 allows schools to adjust fees, with a maximum increase of 5.2%.
Annual inspections and new ratings are normal for Dubai schools, paused only during the pandemic. Future inspections beyond 2024-25 are uncertain.
Benefits include stability, reduced administrative burden, and better data quality, supporting teaching and learning changes for student growth.
Parental decisions will rely on past and current school ratings, with KHDA committed to improving Dubai's education quality and future goals.
In 2023-24, KHDA reviewed 209 private schools, noting improvements in ratings for 26, with 81% now attending 'Good' or better schools.
By: Sahiba Suri
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