Abu Dhabi Private Schools Implement New Attendance Rules Under ADEK Policy

Private schools across the capital have introduced New Attendance Rules Under ADEK Policy for the new academic year 2025-2026 in line with the new student administrative attendance policy that the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) issued a few days ago. 

These regulations have come into effect from the first day of this academic year. Moreover, they aim to improve student well-being and ensure consistent learning to curb absences.  In addition, parents have been notified about the new changes, and schools have been instructed to publish the guidelines on their online portal for full clarity. 

Authorised Absences Defined by ADEK

ADEK understands that people could have emergencies in their lives. Thus, the authority has shared certain categories of authorized absence. However, parents must submit a signed note or official document for these authorized absences. We have listed those allowed absences below:

•  Medical leave or pre-scheduled medical appointments
• Death of a close relative (first- or second-degree)
• Community service leave and official appointments
• Urgent family travel for caregiving or treatment
• Participation in competitions or conferences, such as Model United Nations, Olympiads, or sports events (with prior approval)
• Non-public religious holidays
• Board or pre-university exam leave, with up to four weeks allowed annually

Students with extra learning needs are also allowed to take an authorized therapeutic leave. However, government-mandated school closure for cases (e.g., bad weather) is automatically covered in these leaves. 

New Attendance Registration System

The ADEK has ordered schools to follow the following steps to ensure accountability under this policy:

• Record and upload attendance daily on the Student Information System (eSIS)
• Contact parents within two hours of unreported absences
• Flag students with more than 5% absences as a “cause for concern”
• Track late arrivals, with disciplinary measures applied if tardiness occurs three times or more

Schools are also needed to identify students as “educationally at risk” if absenteeism increases and work with families to implement the intervention plan. 

Disciplinary Measures for Late Arrivals

Schools must excuse the lateness due to adverse weather or exceptional cases. However, repeated delays will trigger disciplinary action under the Student Behavior Policy. In addition, students are required to sign in at the school’s reception and obtain the late slip before entering class. 

Strengthening School-Parent Partnerships with New Attendance Rules Under ADEK Policy

The ADEK highlights collaboration between schools, parents, and students to strengthen the value of regular attendance. In addition, Abu Dhabi is focusing on creating disciplined, clear, and supportive learning experiences through these measures. 

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