New Inclusion Policy to Be Implemented in Abu Dhabi Schools

Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has introduced a new inclusion policy, which would prevent schools from rejecting students with special needs without an approved explanation.

The new policy obliges schools to accept all students, regardless of background or educational needs. If a school cannot accommodate a student, they must submit detailed written evidence explaining why to ADEK.

ADEK’s inclusion team will review each case and will decide whether to approve or reject the school’s claim. If they decide to overturn a case, recognising that a school can in fact accommodate a student, the department will assist the school, highlighting ways they can work to accommodate the child and their needs.

Schools in Abu Dhabi will have until September 2026 to comply with these new regulations. Schools that repeatedly fail to comply could face fines.

Within this new inclusion policy, ADEK is also offering alternative pathways for students for whom mainstream education is not suitable, including finding places for them in specialised schools.

ADEK has also introduced inclusion teachers, who will work with classroom teachers and staff to support students requiring additional support, and will help develop individualised learning plans suited to their needs.

In addition to this, under the new policy, shadow teachers are now called inclusion assistants and will only be permitted to assist a student in the classroom if there is evidence that the student requires them for at least 50% of the school day.

The policy also allows schools with students who require specific learning tools, such as Braille machines to apply for assistive technology through ADEK.