A student may repeat an academic year at guardian's request in Abu Dhabi: ADEK

The Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has confirmed that parents may officially request that their child repeat an academic year, should they deem it to be in the student's academic interest.

Schools may also make this decision at their discretion. The flexibility of the policy permits this decision, as it considers the varying needs of students and enables the educational process to be adapted to each student's individual circumstances.

Regarding the Student Administrative Affairs Policy, the ADEK has clarified that moving between grades or cycles can have a significant impact on students' academic, physical, social, and emotional well-being. This policy sets out the minimum administrative requirements that students must meet.

ADEK explained that progression to the next year depends on a set of criteria, the most important of which are chronological age, meeting success requirements, and compatibility with the approved curriculum.

It emphasised that retaining a student in the same year or making him/her repeat the previous academic year is not done randomly, but is subject to specific controls that ensure a balance between achieving educational goals and providing the student with the necessary support.

ADEK noted that students are not permitted to remain in the same grade for more than two consecutive years, in order to ensure the continuity of their academic path and avoid the risk of prolonged repetition.

If a student fails to achieve the objectives of their educational plan, the school may recommend that they repeat the academic year. This decision must be carefully reviewed by the ADEK and parents must be involved in the evaluation process.

It also clarified that students with additional educational needs receive exceptional treatment. Their situations are assessed individually, in coordination with their parents. This ensures that they are not deprived of advancement opportunities or exposed to difficulties beyond their capabilities.

In addition, ADEK emphasised that this policy aims to create a fair and flexible educational environment that prioritises the best interests of each student and ensures that decisions regarding promotion or repeating the academic year are based on educational and scientific principles that consider the individual needs of each student.

ADEK also indicated that, during the 2025–26 academic year, schools are expected to comply fully with this policy.

Failure to do so will result in legal accountability and penalties under the Department of Education and Knowledge's regulations, policies and requirements.

This is without prejudice to the penalties imposed by Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021, which issued the Crimes and Penalties Law and its amendments, or any other relevant legislation. The Department of Education and Knowledge reserves the right to intervene if a school is found to be in violation of its obligations.