Schools must get permission for extracurricular activities in Abu Dhabi

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has stipulated three key requirements for schools when organising graduation ceremonies.

Primarily, the ceremony and distribution of certificates are to be conducted free of charge. Secondly, parents are not obligated to purchase materials for the graduation ceremony. Thirdly, parents of graduating students must be formally invited to attend the ceremony. Schools are required to obtain written consent signed by the parent of each student participating in the event organised by the school, in line with the specified requirements. Schools are permitted to organise photo sessions as part of their events, as long as parental consent is obtained, and must ensure that such sessions are conducted in line with the ADEK’s policy.

The recently implemented policy for extracurricular activities and events in Abu Dhabi schools, which came into effect in 2024/2025 academic year, delineates ten categories of extracurricular activities for which schools are obligated to obtain prior approval from ADEK.

These include extracurricular activities organised by the school that include inviting external visitors and service providers, virtual extracurricular activities provided or hosted by an external provider, extracurricular activities held during holidays and weekends, extracurricular activities held during scheduled school sessions and school breaks, paid extracurricular activities, i.e. activities for which fees are charged separately from school fees, off-campus extracurricular activities held within the UAE that include overnight stays, and extracurricular activities and events (such as performances, graduations) hosted by the school at a venue other than the school.

The recently implemented policy stipulates that educational institutions are obligated to seek approval from ADEK in a timely manner prior to the commencement of any extracurricular activities.

The stipulated timelines for this process are as follows: 15 working days for all regular extracurricular activities, one month for extracurricular activities that include invitations to visitors/students (above the age of 18) and service providers (for all age groups), and two months for all foreign trips and exchange programmes. Furthermore, schools must obtain a signed consent from the parent of each student participating in an extracurricular activity organised by the school.

The recently implemented policy stipulates that educational institutions are permitted to impose charges for extracurricular activities, with the provision of complimentary options. In instances where schools elect to impose such fees, it is imperative that they do so in a manner consistent with reasonableness. Notwithstanding, it is imperative to note that schools are prohibited from imposing any fees until such activities have been formally approved by the ADEK. In the event of raising donations for a third party, such as a charitable organisation, a school’s Parent-Teacher Association, or a student-run club, during an extracurricular activity, schools are required to submit an application to the relevant authorities for approval. They must also liaise with ADEK for any necessary support, in accordance with Federal Decree-Law No. 3 of 2021 regarding the regulation of donations. It is imperative that schools ensure that 100% of the funds collected are used for the purpose stated in the application.

The recently implemented policy states that extracurricular activities have been demonstrated to be efficacious in enhancing students’ self-confidence, augmenting their interaction with others, cultivating their skills and abilities, and fostering their overall well-being.

It is incumbent upon educational establishments to provide a comprehensive selection of extracurricular activities that cater to diverse groups of students (i.e. different age groups, genders, abilities and preferences). A broad spectrum of extracurricular activities must be made available, encompassing domains such as academic, cultural, artistic, sporting, intellectual, and philanthropic pursuits. Notably, certain of these activities should be provided free of charge, a stipulation that is particularly salient when they are delivered by school staff or volunteers.