UAE Cracks Down on School Absences with Double-Day Counting
The United Arab Emirates has introduced a stringent new attendance policy for schools that is transforming how student absences are recorded. In a significant move, unexcused absences during specific periods now count as two days instead of one, making it much easier for students to reach the maximum absence limit.
When Does the Double-Count Rule Apply?
The new policy targets days when families traditionally extend their holidays. An unexcused absence will be recorded as two days if it falls on:
- Fridays
- The day immediately before an official holiday
- The day immediately after an official holiday
- During the last two weeks of the academic year
- Periods right before final exams
Many Ministry of Education curriculum schools have specifically informed parents that absences between November 10 and 19 will be subject to this double-counting rule. Several private schools in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Dubai have also adopted similar measures, issuing circulars to parents between November 8 and 10.
Strict Consequences for Unexcused Absences
The new policy establishes a clear system of escalating consequences for unexcused absences:
- 1 day: Immediate written warning and automatic alert to parents
- 3 days: First formal notice to the family
- 6 days: Second notice with escalation to child protection units
- 10 days: Third warning with further referral
- 15 days: Final referral to Ministry departments and external child protection agencies, with potential grade repetition
The maximum allowed absence is five unexcused days per term or 15 days per academic year. Students reaching the 15-day limit risk failing the entire academic year and being required to repeat the grade.
What Counts as Excused Absence?
Schools will only approve absences with proper official documentation. Family holidays, shopping trips, or unapproved travel are considered unauthorized and will trigger the warning system. Accepted excuses include:
- Illness requiring certified medical report from approved UAE health institutions
- Medical travel accompanying immediate family members for treatment abroad
- Bereavement of first- or second-degree relatives
- Official duties participation in national or international events
- Special circumstances with written request and official evidence (up to five days per year)
Parents who receive absence notifications have the right to file an appeal within five working days of the notification date.
Why the Strict Attendance Policy?
Education authorities emphasize that consistent attendance is crucial for academic success. Research indicates that missing just 10% of school days can result in learning loss equivalent to half an academic year's progress. The policy aims to prevent the common practice of families extending holiday periods by leaving early or returning late.
The double-absence rule primarily affects Ministry of Education curriculum schools, though the message of zero-tolerance for skipping class is clear across the nation. While not all private schools are implementing the rule, many are choosing to align with Ministry guidance to maintain academic standards.
