Dubai Schools Implement Strict Misconduct Rules

Stricter Regulation in Dubai Schools: Staff Bans for Misconduct

A new era begins in Dubai's private educational institutions: the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has implemented updated regulations regarding the dismissal and permanent exclusion of school staff in cases of serious misconduct. The goal is clear: protecting students, ensuring a safe educational environment, and maintaining the dignity and professional standards of the teaching profession.

What is Deregistration?

Deregistration is a formal procedure that permanently bans an employee from holding any position in Dubai's private educational institutions. This applies not only to primary or secondary schools but also to kindergartens, universities, technical training, and vocational training centers. Any "Appointment Notice" issued by the KHDA becomes immediately void, and the individual can no longer apply for any similar position within the emirate.

What Cases Can Lead to Dismissal and Deregistration?

The new regulation distinguishes multiple levels of severity:

Reasons leading to immediate ban:

Criminal conviction (in any area, especially related to child protection)

Severe child protection violation

Gross professional misconduct, such as physical or verbal abuse

Repeated or severe behaviors that can lead to deregistration:

Inappropriate behavior on social media

Culturally insensitive remarks

Recurring dishonesty or unethical behavior

Series of professional standard breaches

In such cases, the educational institution must report to the KHDA and conduct the appropriate procedure following the new Staff Deregistration Technical Guide.

The Aim and Importance of the New Regulation

With the introduction of the regulation, Dubai aims to maintain an educational environment that radiates safety, respect, and professionalism for all involved—be it students, parents, or educators. This step sends a clear message: there is no place in education for those who do not meet fundamental moral and professional standards.

The KHDA has specifically emphasized that not only is the investigation of abuses a primary goal, but so is their prevention. For this purpose, every educational institution is required to provide regular training to their staff on topics such as:

Ethical standards

Child protection

Professional behavior

Creating an inclusive and safe teaching environment

The regulation came into effect immediately

The new technical guide is already available on the KHDA's official website, and briefing sessions are being organized to help institutions effectively implement the rules. These briefings assist institution leaders in uniformly interpreting and applying the regulation.

What Happens After Deregistration?

The legal consequence of the ban is severe. The affected person is completely excluded from the educational sector within Dubai. There is no possibility for revocation or reapplication. Deregistered individuals are recorded, and the database is accessible to all private institutions. This excludes the possibility of someone attempting to reintegrate under a different name or in a different type of institution.

Strengthening the Teaching Profession

One of the stated goals of the regulation is to strengthen the prestige of the teaching profession. Education is not merely a job but a vocation that carries significant social responsibility. Dubai's long-term goal is to make the emirate one of the world's most recognized educational hubs. To this end, it is essential that educators serve as examples both in personal and professional terms.

Students' Interests Come First

According to the KHDA, the safety of students is paramount. The new regulation is mandatory not only for teachers but for all KHDA-approved employees, including administrative and support staff. The aim is to surround students with an environment that supports their development—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Summary

The new deregistration regulation is a significant milestone in Dubai's educational system. It serves the safety of students, the maintenance of professional standards in institutions, and the dignity of the teaching profession all at once. The strictness of the rules is not intended as punishment but aims to reinforce an educational environment based on trust and responsibility. These measures fit well into Dubai's long-term strategy to elevate the emirate's educational offerings to the forefront of the world.

(Source: Announcement from Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).)