KHDA clarifies Dubai private school fee and refund rules

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has issued updated policies for private schools in Dubai regarding tuition fees, registration deposits, and refund procedures.

Key regulations include a cap on application fees at Dh500, which must be refunded if a child is not offered a place after assessment. Registration deposits are limited to 10% of annual tuition fees and must be deducted from the total tuition once the student begins classes. For existing students, re-registration deposits are capped at 5% of tuition or Dh500, whichever is lower.

To secure a full refund of a registration deposit, parents must provide written notice at least 60 days before the school term begins. For schools starting in September, deposits can only be collected after the summer break and no earlier than May 1st. For schools starting in April, deposits cannot be collected before February 1st.