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How do we change schools in Dubai?

Families change schools for a better fit, a move across the city or a new curriculum. KHDA, Dubai’s schools regulator, sets the rules on deposits, notice and refunds.

Last checked 6 Oct 2026·Information, not advice

In 30 seconds

Give your current school at least 60 days’ notice, or you may lose your re-registration deposit
Leaving during term can mean paying up to the whole term’s fees, so time the move for a term break if you can
You need a transfer certificate from your current school to register at the new one

Notice60 daysTo get deposits back

Re-registration depositUp to 5% or AED 500Whichever is lower

Transfer certificateNeededFrom your current school

Deposits

Deposit	The rule
Registration deposit (new school)	Up to 10% of the yearly fees. It’s taken off the fees once your child starts
Re-registration deposit (current school)	Up to 5% of the fees or AED 500, whichever is lower. Usually collected from 1 May for September-start schools
Getting it back	Both are refundable if you give 60 days’ notice

Refunds if you leave

When your child leaves	What you can be charged
Before the school year starts	Fees are generally refunded. The deposit may be kept without 60 days’ notice
Within the first 2 weeks of a term	Up to one month’s fees
After 2 weeks, up to a month into term	Up to two months’ fees
More than a month into term	The full term’s fees

So the cheapest time to move is between terms, with 60 days’ notice given.

The transfer certificate

Ask your current school for a transfer certificate. It’s issued through KHDA’s system and the new school needs it to register your child
Clear any unpaid fees first: a school can hold the certificate back until they’re settled
Changing curriculum in the exam years (Years 10–13 British, Grades 9–12 American) needs approval from the UAE Ministry of Education

Choosing the new school

Compare KHDA inspection ratings, fees, waiting lists and the journey. See How do I choose a school and get a place?

Check the school’s own policy. Schools publish their own registration and refund policy within KHDA’s rules. Read it before you pay a deposit.

What to do next

Check your school’s notice and refund policy
Give 60 days’ notice, ideally before a term ends
Ask for the transfer certificate once fees are settled

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Sources

Last checked 6 Oct 2026. Rules and prices change, so check the official source before you act. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.