Schools in the UAE have resumed in-person learning, after being closed for more than a month, due to the ongoing regional tensions. However, parents also have the option of choosing distance learning, in case they don't wish to send children back, as yet.
Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has clarified that private schools delivering an approved distance learning programme are not required to reduce, discount or waive any part of their KHDA-approved tuition fees simply because classes are being provided remotely. The rule appears in KHDA’s latest school fee and refund policy and applies when learning continues through distance learning or another alternative method approved by the authority.
The clarification sits under the section dealing with 'circumstances beyond the control of either parents or schools', particularly during government-enforced closures that interrupt physical classroom learning.
Under the policy, tuition remains payable for any period in which the service is available and delivered, including through distance learning. That means parents cannot withhold or reduce fees simply because they choose not to engage with online classes. If parents have concerns about the quality or delivery of remote education, they must raise them through the school’s internal complaints process, and fees remain payable in full while that complaint is being resolved.
KHDA also states that schools are permitted to retain fees for any period during which the services were delivered, and such payments are not refundable.
When Refunds Apply
A refund will be possible only when the service could no longer be delivered and will be addressed through one of the following methods, agreed in writing between the school and the parent:
- The school issues a formal credit note for the value of the eligible amount, to be applied against future tuition fees, provided the student remains enrolled at the same school upon resumption of services. Where the child does not return to the school, the held amount is refunded to the parent.
- Transfer of credit to a sibling enroled in the same school
- A full refund corresponding to the period for which the service could not be delivered