UAE Teachers: Private Tuition Rules Unveiled

UAE Private Tuition Work Permit and Code of Conduct

In a significant development, Khaleej Times reports that teachers in the UAE are now prohibited from offering private tuitions to students from their own schools. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has introduced a comprehensive 'code of conduct' that teachers must sign to obtain a private tuition work permit, outlining seven rules they must adhere to.

The code explicitly states that teachers are prohibited from providing services directly to students affiliated with their schools, emphasizing the need for disclosure of any conflict of interest. This move comes after the UAE legalized private tuitions in December, introducing a new permit to offer lessons outside educational institutions.

Educators had initially expressed concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the impact on objectivity or fairness when teachers coach their own students privately. The newly revealed code of conduct aims to address these concerns and maintain a professional and ethical standard for private tutoring.

According to the Ministry, private tuitions are defined as the practice of providing educational lessons outside of school hours by qualified educators. The code of conduct requires teachers to maintain professionalism with students, refraining from inappropriate activities such as sending emails or images. Physical contact with students is also prohibited.

The seven-point document outlines key rules for private tutors:

1. Maintain confidentiality of information related to students and parents.
2. Avoid any form of violence, whether verbal or physical, towards students.
3. Refrain from engaging in topics containing abnormal or extremist concepts inconsistent with the state's national identity.

The new permit is issued for a two-year duration and is free of charge. It targets a range of individuals, including registered teachers, employed and unemployed individuals, school students aged 15 to 18, and university pupils. Private tutors with the permit can teach a variety of subjects, including academic subjects, languages, business topics, social subjects, art and design, Arabic and Islamic studies, physical education, and performing arts.

To apply for the permit, eligible individuals need to visit the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation's website or app. The application requirements vary depending on the applicant, but may include a valid UAE residency (passport/Emirates ID), a signed code of conduct, a certificate of good conduct, a no-objection certificate from the employer, and a no-objection certificate from the guardian for students offering private tuitions.

The introduction of this permit aims to regulate private tuitions, preventing illegal and unregulated practices. Those found offering private lessons without the necessary permit may face fines and penalties. The comprehensive code of conduct and permit requirements underscore the UAE's commitment to ensuring a structured and ethical framework for private tutoring, balancing the educational needs of students with the professionalism of educators.