ADEK allows Abu Dhabi school fees to be paid in up to 10 instalments

Private schools in Abu Dhabi must give parents greater flexibility in paying tuition fees and waive charges for certain school materials when students use eligible second-hand items, Gulf News reported.

The requirement comes under a new fee policy issued by the emirate's education regulator, ADEK.

What are the new ADEK rules on school fee instalments?

Schools must provide parents with at least three equal payment instalments for tuition and may offer up to 10 instalments. The first payment can be collected no earlier than one month before the start of the academic year, giving families more time to spread the cost.

The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge requires schools to exempt families from charges related to devices, textbooks, uniforms and other applicable materials when students use donated or resold items that meet the school's current requirements. This applies across the emirate's private education sector.

How must schools categorise their fees?

The policy requires schools to organise approved charges under six categories: tuition, educational resources, uniforms, transportation, extracurricular activities and other fees. Separate charges may also apply to board examinations.

Schools can levy administrative fees for board examinations but must explain the basis for those charges, including expenses such as document processing, invigilation and mailing. They must also disclose examination and administrative fees on their websites, specify the grades covered and comply with value-added tax rules.

Why did ADEK introduce the new fee policy?

Schools must publish their ADEK-approved fee schedules and payment plans on their websites, with the approved fee structure bearing the department's official stamp. ADEK said the policy is intended to make school charges clearer and more predictable, while ensuring that fees reflect the quality and value of education and remain accessible to families.

The regulator also seeks to improve transparency around fee increases, make regular payments easier for parents, support the development of Abu Dhabi's private education sector and encourage investment.

Why are transport costs a growing concern for parents?

The policy comes as families face rising costs beyond tuition, particularly for school transportation. Bus subscriptions at some private schools can cost between Dh5,000 and Dh8,500 per student, prompting parents to consider cheaper alternatives.

Families are turning to options including private cars, carpooling, ride-sharing, shared taxis, public buses and scooters. Demand for private transport arrangements has also increased ahead of the new school year, with car owners advertising paid carpooling services on platforms such as WhatsApp and Instagram.

Some parents have raised concerns about rising transport charges, saying the cost is putting additional pressure on household budgets and could push families towards less regulated alternatives. They have called for stronger oversight of school transport prices to keep services affordable and safe.