What is the Dubai inclusive education policy?
The Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework, published in 2017 and overseen for private schools by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), requires Dubai's private schools to admit and support students of determination. Schools must not refuse admission because of special educational needs, must keep any additional fees reasonable and tied to actual costs, and must invest in inclusive facilities, staff and teaching.
What this means in practice
Before the framework, families in Dubai reported refusals and very high charges for support, including shadow teachers costing tens of thousands of dirhams a year. The policy set expectations for all private schools and became part of how KHDA inspects schools.
Key expectations for schools
- No refusal of admission on the basis of special educational needs.
- Identification of needs early, followed by individual planning.
- Additional fees only where justified, reasonable and reflecting real cost.
- A budget for inclusive facilities and resources.
- Leadership roles for inclusion, often called an inclusion champion or lead.
- Partnership with families and specialist services.
What it means for teachers and LSAs
Class teachers are expected to adapt teaching for students of determination, with support from an inclusion team. Learning support assistants and shadow teachers work within that team, following individual plans rather than acting independently.
Inspections
KHDA school inspections look at how well schools include and support students of determination, which gives schools a strong reason to train staff.
Practical next steps
- Read the policy framework summary.
- Ask your school who leads inclusion.
- Learn how individual plans are written and reviewed.
- Keep records of the adaptations you make.
What to keep in mind
Policies and inspection frameworks are updated. Check KHDA's current publications for the latest requirements.
Common follow-up questions
Does the Dubai policy apply to government schools?
KHDA regulates Dubai's private schools; public schools follow federal Ministry of Education policies.
Can schools charge extra for a shadow teacher?
The framework allows additional costs only where reasonable and reflecting actual cost, with transparency.
Sources
- Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework (UNESCO Planipolis copy)
- Khaleej Times (2017): Parents hail KHDA's inclusive policy for students of determination
- KHDA Dubai: inclusive education
Sources inform the explanation; examples are educational illustrations, not individual clinical advice. How these answers are prepared.