New Dubai guidelines for appointing principals in private schools

At a glance

• New guidelines ensure principals in Dubai's private schools are well-qualified and uphold professional and ethical standards.
•  Schools must follow stringent procedures and conditions to appoint principals, including the Knowledge and Human Development Authority's (KHDA) review and approval.
• KHDA will periodically review and update the guidelines, with the resolution effective from the date of publication.

A new administrative resolution aimed at enhancing the standards for appointing principals in private schools across Dubai has been issued by KHDA. This resolution aims to enhance the standards for school leadership by ensuring principals are well-qualified and uphold the highest professional and ethical standards.

The resolution approves the 'Guideline for Appointing a Principal in Private Schools in Dubai', now available on the KHDA website. It includes detailed models, steps, and technical requirements for the appointment process. These guidelines apply to all private schools in Dubai, governed by the Executive Council Resolution No 2 of 2017.

Private schools must:

• Ensure that candidates:
  • Have a good reputation with no prior convictions for crimes involving honour or trust.
  • Are medically fit for the role.
  • Commit in writing to adhere to the professional and ethical code of conduct.
  • Possess the qualifications and professional experience specified in the guideline.
• Apply to KHDA with the required documents. KHDA will review the application and issue a decision within ten days. Approved principals will be registered in KHDA's system, while rejected applications will include reasons for rejection.
• Notify KHDA immediately upon the termination of a principal's service. Temporary principals may be appointed for up to one academic term with KHDA's prior approval.
• Obtain KHDA's prior approval before the principal starts their duties. The approval is specific to the school that applied for it and cannot be transferred to another school.

KHDA may revoke the approval if the principal no longer meets any of the specified conditions and it will periodically review and update the guidelines, publishing any updates on their website.