New policy: ADEK introduces changes in renewal of private schools licences in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has issued a directive requiring all private schools in the emirate to submit licence renewal applications at least 60 days before expiry.

The move is part of an updated licensing policy aimed at reinforcing compliance, accountability, and operational standards across the private education sector.

The new requirements are detailed in ADEK’s updated Licensing Manual, designed to streamline regulatory oversight and ensure timely compliance.

Under the new policy, ADEK holds the authority to place schools with recurring “Acceptable” or lower inspection ratings under financial, administrative, and academic supervision. This action aims at driving consistent improvements in school performance.

Licence renewal conditions and penalties

To renew a license or access related services, schools must settle any outstanding fines or comply with an approved payment plan. Failure to do so will classify the school as delinquent and may result in license suspension.

Schools operating under temporary or general licences are prohibited from altering ownership, legal entity status, or partnership structures without ADEK’s prior approval. Any such changes must strictly follow the Licensing Manual. Temporary license letters are non-transferable, and only the current holder may add partners by undergoing the license modification process.

Five key categories of changes

• Ownership or Legal Entity — Including addition or removal of partners (not applicable to temporary license holders).

• Grade Level Expansion or Reduction — Adding or removing grade levels beyond the current license.

• School Name, Address, or Contact Details — Any changes to the school’s identifying or location information.

• School Category — Adjustments to the type or classification of the institution.

• Curriculum Modifications — Adding, removing, or changing curriculum offerings (not allowed for temporary license holders).

Rejected applications

All modification applications must follow ADEK’s formal procedures. Rejected applications will be returned with reasons for denial, and applicants can resubmit revised requests within 30 working days. Temporary licence holders may only resubmit once; if rejected again, they must wait six months to reapply. All licencing decisions may be appealed in accordance with ADEK’s policy, with the final decision binding.

TAMM Platform

Private school licence renewals are processed via the TAMM digital platform, which allows investors to electronically submit applications.

Required documents include:

• Attested lease contract (for ADEK-owned properties) or land/building lease agreement

• Appointment letters for Principal, Vice Principal, and Social Worker (mandatory for schools with over 500 students)

• Clinic and medical staff license numbers

• School transportation contract

• Business Continuity Plan

• Civil Defense Certificate

• Accreditation (for international curricula at secondary level)

• CCTV compliance certificate

• Annual financial report

• Food service permits and contracts (if applicable)

• School Improvement Plan (for underperforming schools)

• Proof of latest rent payment

• CCTV service provider details

• Power of attorney (if applicable)

• Commercial licence

• Approved transportation service provider

• Jurisdiction of Licensing Authorities

While the UAE Ministry of Education handles licencing for most emirates, the responsibility is delegated to local authorities in Abu Dhabi (ADEK), Dubai (Knowledge and Human Development Authority), and Sharjah (Sharjah Private Education Authority). Applicants must be UAE nationals, or, in the case of companies, have at least 51% local ownership.