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School Ratings Now Mandatory at Abu Dhabi School Entrances

Abu Dhabi private schools must now display performance plaques showing their Irtiqa’a rating and National Identity Mark at the entrance.

  • Publish date: Tuesday، 17 June 2025
School Ratings Now Mandatory at Abu Dhabi School Entrances

Private schools across Abu Dhabi are now required to place official performance plaques near their entrances. The initiative, rolled out by the Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), is meant to give parents and visitors quick and clear insights into each school’s overall performance and values.

School Ratings Now Mandatory at Abu Dhabi School Entrances

What’s on the Plaque?

Each plaque includes two major indicators of a school’s quality:

  • Irtiqa’a Rating: This score is based on a wide inspection framework that looks at student outcomes, teaching quality, curriculum strength, leadership, student wellbeing, and personal development.

  • National Identity Mark: This reflects how well a school promotes UAE culture, citizenship, and national values.

More Transparency, More Accountability

ADEK says the plaques are designed to make schools more transparent and encourage higher standards. According to Sulaiman Al Ameri, Acting Executive Director of Private Education and Charter Schools at ADEK, the plaques show more than just a rating — they represent each school’s ongoing commitment to excellence and national identity.

The education system in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Wellbeing Ratings Coming Soon

In the next phase of the initiative, ADEK plans to include a Wellbeing Mark on the plaques. This new addition will highlight how schools support the mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing of their students and staff.

How Parents Can Use This

Parents are encouraged to look for the plaques when visiting or enrolling in schools. For a deeper understanding of what each rating means, families can check out ADEK’s official website or download the Rayah app, which offers more details on the Irtiqa’a and National Identity frameworks.

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