How to Get KHDA Approval in Dubai | Your 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Getting approval from KHDA is mandatory if you plan on starting a school, nursery, or training institute in Dubai. The KHDA is responsible for licensing schools in Dubai and monitors the quality of private education in Dubai. Having assisted many clients, I must say that the process is simple once you understand the steps. With the boom in Dubai’s education landscape in 2025, and with over 800 institutes and 66% of students enrolled in top-tier schools, having KHDA approval enhances credibility, increases admissions, and balances with UAE education policies. Whatever the case may be, in this guide you will find everything, including steps, documents, costs, timelines, and his tips for a smooth company formation in Dubai.

What Is KHDA Approval, and Why Does It Matter?

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), previously created in 2006 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, oversees private education in Dubai, which includes preschools, private primary and secondary schools, colleges and universities, and vocational training centers. Its mission is educational quality assurance while promoting happiness and well-being in learning for all stakeholders. 

Why is KHDA approval crucial? It helps in legally operating in Dubai’s education business ecosystem. Here’s why it’s important:

• Credibility: Having a KHDA-approved certificate boosts an institution’s image among parents and learners for brand trust.
• Increased Admissions: It is reported that a large portion of the population in Dubai is expatriates, and with a KHDA approval, the schools will attract more learners; thus, 71% of the expat population will be seeking education. 
• Worldwide aligned accreditation: It gives prestige to the institution by aligning it with international standards such as the International Baccalaureate and the British Curriculum. 
• Yearly evaluations: Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau (DSIB) assigns a school to one of six (Outstanding to Very Weak) grades, which affect their operational fees and school reputation.

Who Needs KHDA Approval in Dubai?

The Dubai KHDA issues permits for specific operations, including the initial setting up of an educational institution in the region. This Covers the Following:

• Private Schools: Offering curricula like American, British, or Indian.
• Nurseries: Early childhood centers focusing on child skills development.
• Training Institutes: Providing professional development training, computer training, or language training.
• Higher Education Providers: Universities or branch campuses in free zones or mainland.

KHDA also issued separate permits to the schoolteachers to work for private schools in Dubai, making sure they fulfill the professionally qualifying standards. If you’re exploring a UAE business setup, KHDA’s investor services guide you through educational permits.

Steps to Get KHDA Approval: A Clear Path

While the KHDA approval process is systematic, it requires critical focus on the particulars. Here is an actionable Dubai school licensing checklist that is tailored to ‘starting an educational institute in Dubai’ style queries.

Step 1: Initial Proposal Submission

Take the first step by submitting a distinct proposal for the educational institution. Reach out to KHDA either via their login portal or in person. All submissions need to meet the following criteria: 

• Vision of the institution (ex. student-oriented education or education for all)
• Nature of the institution (e.g. nursery approval, private school licensing, or training institute permits).
• Intended audience (e.g. expatriate students or local Emiratis). 

Tip: Dubai’s Education 33 strategy, which emphasizes curriculum diversity while focusing on student wellbeing, is a marquee feature of the proposal. For example, (and to reinforce my point), my client’s proposal for the nursery which outlined a focus on play-based learning greatly reduced the wait time for initial feedback.  

Step 2: Governance and Shareholder Information Submission

Shareholder and governance information detailing the school’s manager and governance bodies is submitted in this step. This concerns: 

• Shareholder names and their respective bios. 
• Education background of the management team.
• Internal compliance and governance policies detailing regulatory requirements.

The KHDA comments on their requirements and provides set feedback, marking the conclusion of the step. This process, while guided, increase regulatory trust which is essential to UAE compliance.

Step 3: Construct An Elaborate Registration Strategy  

Your application blueprint begins with the registration plan. Cover the following:  

• Proposed Location: Opt between Dubai mainland or free zones (e.g., Dubai Knowledge Park for tax benefits).  
• Curriculum: Specify (e.g., British curriculum, International Baccalaureate).  
• Marketing Strategy: How you’ll attract students.  
• School Name: Follow KHDA’s nomenclature guidelines.  
• Delivery Mode: Online (e.g., KHDA-approved online schools) or in-person.  

As an example, one of my training institute clients selected a free zone for their computer training programs. This choice ensured compliance with KHDA rules and was tax advantageous.  

Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents  

Prepare and submit all the compliance documents. These documents generally include:  

• School manager’s CV and undertaking.  
• Detailed course outline or curriculum plan.  
• Notarized signatures from shareholders.  
• Proof of commercial license from relevant government entities.  

KHDA’s review is necessary for these documents to ensure the educational rigor of the institution. Delay in approval due to missing documents is a common occurrence, so ensure all the documents are required and verified in the KHDA login portal.  

Step 5: Receive Initial Approval and Final Permit  

Following the review, the KHDA issues an initial approval which in turn allows:  

• Appointment of the school head.  
• Advertisement of the institute.  
• Completion of the setup, e.g., operational bank account.

Proceeding with the application process, KHDA grants permission via an Education Services Permit, which formally permits your institution. With this permit, you can fully operate in compliance with the educational frameworks set for Dubai.

What Documents Are Needed for KHDA Approval?

• School manager’s CV: mention qualifications and experience.
• Undertaking letter: signed by the manager, and undertakes to fulfill.
• Curriculum plan: a comprehensive list or syllabus, for example, language training and fine arts training.
• Shareholder documents: notarized signatures with ownership information.
• Commercial license: obtained from government bodies such as the Department of Economic Development.
• Proof of location: lease agreement within the boundaries of Dubai mainland or free zones.
• Financial plan: budget outline for operations and for establishing a business within the UAE.

I once assisted a client in organizing their compliance documents within a checklist framework, which streamlined their approval process by weeks. To confirm requirements, do not forget to log in to the KHDA portal.

How Much Does KHDA Approval Cost in 2025?

How Long Does the KHDA Approval Process Take?

• Proposal Submission: 1–2 weeks for initial feedback.
• Document Review: 4–8 weeks, depending on completeness.
• Initial Approval: 2–4 weeks after documents.
• Final Permit: 1–2 months after meeting all conditions.

Total timeline: 3–6 months. A nursery I worked with took 4 months to prepare a thorough registration plan upfront. Delays often stem from incomplete compliance documents.

KHDA Approval for Teachers: Essentials You Should Know

Obtaining KHDA approval is compulsory for private school educators in Dubai. The requisites are:

• Absence of prior UAE teaching experience is supplemented with a minimum of two years in a relevant field.
• Documents: UAE attestation of degree certificates and a KHDA approval letter.
• Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree and teaching certification (e.g., PGCE for the British curriculum).
• Process: Submission of teacher details via the KHDA portal is done for validation.

My teacher friend had a hard time with the attestation process but received approval in three weeks with the right help. The process ensures educators’ qualifications are in line with Dubai’s educational standards.

Benefits of a KHDA-Approved Certificate

A KHDA-approved certificate offers tangible benefits.

• Trust: Parents trust KHDA-approved institutes, with 66% of students in good-or-better schools.
• Admissions Growth: Higher ratings (e.g., Outstanding) attract more students.
• Fee Flexibility: DSIB inspections (Outstanding to Very Weak) influence fee structures.
• Global Recognition: Aligns with global accreditation standards, boosting reputation.

KHDA vs. ADEK: How Do They Compare?

A comparison search like “KHDA vs. ADEK” reveals key differences:

Tips for a Smooth KHDA Approval Process

To streamline your Dubai school licensing, follow these tips from my experience:

• Work with Experts: Business setup consultants in Dubai or PRO services save time. I’ve seen clients cut delays by 30% with professional help.
• Double-Check Documents: Use a checklist to ensure all compliance documents are complete.
• Follow 2025 Trends: In your plan, show how you will support all students and care for their well-being. This matches Dubai’s Education 33 plan.
• Choose Free Zones: If you run a college or training center, free zones like Dubai Knowledge Park can save you money on taxes.
• Get Ready for Checks: Learn what DSIB looks for, like how well students learn and how strong the leaders are. Aim to get the best rating, “Outstanding.”

Frequently Asked Questions About KHDA Approval

Here are answers to common question:

Q1: What is the KHDA approval process?

First, send your idea to KHDA. Then, give details about the owners. Make a plan for how the school or center will run. Share all needed papers. After that, you will get an Education Services Permit.

Q2: How long does KHDA approval take in 2025? 

Typically 3–6 months, depending on document readiness.

Q3: What documents are needed for KHDA approval?

Manager’s CV, undertaking letter, curriculum plan, notarized shareholder signatures, and commercial license.

Q4: Do teachers need KHDA approval?

Yes, with attested degrees and 2 years’ experience.

Q5: What are the costs of KHDA approval? 

AED 5,000–20,000 for application and consultancy, plus location costs.

Q6: Where can I find KHDA-approved training institutes? 

Check the KHDA login portal for a list of KHDA -approved training institutes.

Ready to Start? Next Steps for Your Dubai Education Venture

Getting KHDA approval in Dubai is the first step to starting a successful education business. This could be a private school, nursery, or training center. Approval shows people you meet UAE education rules and standards. Start your plans early. Use PRO services to save time. Follow Dubai’s quality rules to keep your approval strong. Want to begin? Go to the KHDA login page or talk to a business setup expert. You can even look into getting a UAE Golden Visa.