Every day counts! New Abu Dhabi school attendance rules parents must know
Parents alert: 9 days off could trigger action in Abu Dhabi schools
Abu Dhabi’s Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has called on parents to ensure their children attend school regularly, stressing that “every day of attendance is a step toward success.”
ADEK released updated guidelines as part of its student affairs policies for the 2025–26 academic year. Punctual and consistent attendance is deemed essential for responsibility, learning quality, and long-term achievement.
Absence thresholds
Kindergarten: Missing more than 10% of the school year (18 days) is considered problematic.
Grade 1–12: Absences exceeding 5% (9 days) will trigger concern.
These rules apply to both excused and unexcused absences.
Excused vs. unexcused absences
Excused: Illness, pre-scheduled medical appointments, bereavement of close family members, official government commitments, participation in competitions/events, public holidays, study leave for exams approved by ADEK, and government-mandated school closures.
Unexcused: Family holidays during the school year, staying home without notifying the school, non-urgent medical visits, and absences due to ordinary weather conditions.
Tardiness and medical absences
Schools are required to track repeated tardiness and may apply disciplinary measures.
Parents can excuse up to 3 consecutive days or a maximum of 12 days per year with a simple note.
From the 4th day onward, an official medical certificate approved by the Department of Health is required.
For chronic illnesses, additional medical documentation is needed if absences exceed 12 days.
Student and parental responsibilities
Even for excused absences, students remain responsible for completing all missed assignments, exams, and coursework. Parents must notify schools promptly and provide the required documentation to avoid absences being recorded as unexcused.
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