KHDA’s New Quality Assurance Approach for Dubai Schools
The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai is set to implement a novel method for quality assurance visits to private schools, starting from the first term of the 2026-27 academic year. This new approach is characterized by its flexibility and reliance on data-driven insights, tailored to meet the specific developmental stage and needs of each educational institution.
AI-Driven Evaluations
Fatma Belrehif, who serves as the CEO of the Quality Assurance and Compliance Agency at KHDA, highlighted the integration of AI tools in the new methodology. These tools are pivotal in determining the most suitable type of visit for each school, thus optimizing the evaluation process.
Focus on New and Developing Schools
Schools that are in their infancy, specifically those in their first or second year of operation, will receive visits from education evaluators. The primary aim of these visits is to assess the quality of teaching, learning, and the overall student experience, while simultaneously aiding in the school’s developmental journey.
As schools enter their third year, they will undergo a comprehensive quality assurance visit. This detailed evaluation will cover the school’s overall performance, teaching quality, and learning outcomes, culminating in a comprehensive report and an official school rating.
Key Areas of Focus
This academic year, the quality assurance visits will emphasize four critical areas: early childhood education, the quality of education offered to Emirati students, inclusive education for students with special needs, and the teaching and learning of Arabic. These areas align with the UAE School Inspection Framework and the Dubai Education 33 Strategy, which prioritizes student-centric education and high-quality learning experiences.
Commitment to Inclusive and High-Quality Education
Belrehif emphasized that the quality assurance visits are designed to be adaptable, focusing on enhancing the student experience both in the classroom and in daily school activities. The initiative aims to bolster the confidence of parents in the educational institutions they select for their children, ensuring every student receives a high-quality education.
Evaluation of Early Childhood and Emirati Students
The quality assurance teams will closely examine the education and care provided to young children, setting clear expectations for this developmental stage. They will also assess the educational opportunities and progress of Emirati students, in line with the E33 Strategy’s goal of empowering local talent and enhancing educational outcomes.
Inclusive Education and Arabic Language Proficiency
Schools will be evaluated on their provision of inclusive education, including specialized services for students with complex needs. This assessment supports KHDA’s role in the Higher Committee for Protection of the Rights of People of Determination and Dubai’s mission to empower individuals with special needs.
Furthermore, the effectiveness of Arabic language teaching will be scrutinized, with particular attention paid to students’ progress in reading, writing, comprehension, and communication.
Implementation of the New Methodology
Under this revised approach, private schools in Dubai will receive either a comprehensive visit or a focused follow-up visit, determined by their submitted data and developmental stage. Comprehensive visits involve an in-depth evaluation by a specialist team, resulting in a detailed report and an overall rating.
In contrast, focused visits address specific areas identified through performance indicators and conclude with feedback highlighting strengths and areas for improvement, without issuing a new overall rating. Schools will receive only 24 hours’ notice prior to either type of visit, aiming to capture an authentic representation of everyday school life.
The latest school inspection cycle reveals that 81% of students in Dubai’s private schools receive a quality of education rated as Good or better, with no schools rated as Very Weak. This initiative by KHDA underscores a commitment to maintaining and elevating educational standards across the emirate.