In the UAE, expatriates frequently allocate a significant portion of their income to rent and education. Parents with children in private schools often encounter escalating costs as tuition fees rise with each grade level. When schools increase fees, the financial burden becomes more pronounced. However, education regulatory bodies in the UAE impose restrictions to prevent arbitrary fee hikes. The Department of Education and Knowledge (Adek) in Abu Dhabi oversees the school sector to ensure that fees are reasonable, transparent, and aligned with the quality of education provided. Adek's policy outlines the criteria for setting school fees and establishing payment schedules.

In 2023, schools that were rated 'Outstanding' for the academic year 2021-22 were permitted to raise fees, capped at 3.94 percent for the 2023-24 academic year. Schools rated 'Very good' qualified for a 3.38 percent fee hike. Those rated 'Good' were allowed a 2.81 percent increase, while schools rated 'Acceptable', 'Weak', and 'Very weak' could implement a maximum tuition fee increase of 2.25 percent.

Fee structure components include board examination fees, which must be clearly stated on the school website. Schools may also waive certain fees for devices, textbooks, uniforms, and other related items if students opt to use second-hand items that meet current school requirements. Schools must submit clear and accurate applications for fee increases, adhering to Adek's timelines and prerequisites, which include having a valid school license and being operational for at least three years.

For exceptional fee increases, schools must meet additional conditions such as adjusted operating losses for the last two consecutive academic years and an occupancy rate of at least 80 percent. Embassies' private schools may apply for an exceptional increase if they provide justification and obtain the necessary approvals.

Schools are authorized to charge book fees, uniform fees, and others based on actual expenses. Any request for standard or exceptional tuition fee increases may be rejected by Adek. Transportation fees require approvals from Adek and the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC).

Tuition fees must be publicly shared on school websites, with payment schedules implemented in three or more equal instalments. Registration fees are capped at 5 percent of Adek-approved tuition fees and must be deducted from the final tuition fees. Fee transparency is enforced, with Adek-approved fees and payment schedules displayed on school websites.

For new schools or branches, proposed tuition fees and associated charges must be included in their temporary license application with Adek. Schools must record the source of tuition fee payments and report this information to Adek. In cases of late or non-payment of fees, schools must maintain confidentiality and establish a clear, transparent, and fair policy. Schools can suspend students for up to three days once per term for unpaid fees and withhold documents until fees are cleared.

Schools must notify parents in writing three months before the end of the school year if there's a risk of non-re-enrollment due to unpaid fees. Students will not be prevented from sitting for exams, even if fees are outstanding. Refund policies for registration and tuition fees are detailed, with specific conditions for retention of fees based on attendance duration.

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