The UAE has formalised rules for paid private lessons by introducing a Private Teacher Work Permit, which allows qualified individuals to offer tuition outside licensed schools and training centres. The move, announced by federal authorities, sets eligibility, documentation and conduct rules for tutors and makes unauthorised paid tutoring subject to enforcement.
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Federal announcement and legal basis
The permit was launched jointly by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and the Ministry of Education in December 2023 as part of a regulatory framework to oversee private tuition offered outside educational institutions. The ministries set out the permit’s scope, application channels and the required conduct for permit-holders.
Who is eligible
Authorities list five main groups eligible to apply for the private tutor permit:
- registered school teachers (public and private);
- university students;
- school students aged 15–18;
- employees in government and private sectors; and
- unemployed residents who hold a valid UAE residence visa.
Key conditions for teachers
Registered teachers may apply but face specific restrictions. They must not provide tuition to pupils enrolled at their own school, and employers may be asked to provide a no-objection letter where applicable. Permit-holders must sign a code of conduct that addresses conflict of interest and student safeguarding.
Permit duration, cost and issuance
The permit is issued free of charge and is valid for two years, with the option to renew subject to the same eligibility conditions. The MoHRE e-services platform and smart application are the official channels for submission and processing. The ministry states a target turnaround measured in working days for service completion.
Application requirements
Applicants must submit identity and supporting documents appropriate to their category. Core documents commonly required include:
- Emirates ID and valid residence visa;
- educational certificates or proof of enrolment (for students);
- Police Clearance/Certificate of Good Conduct (for unemployed applicants);
- medical fitness certificate (where applicable);
- employer NOC when required.
Scope of permitted tuition
The permit covers one-to-one and group lessons conducted outside licensed schools and official institutions. It applies equally to in-person and remote tuition offered to students residing in the UAE. Detailed provisions and limitations are set out in the ministerial resolution that established the permit.
Enforcement and unauthorised activity
Authorities have warned that offering paid tuition without the required permit contravenes the new regulations and may lead to administrative action. The ministerial resolution and official guidance make clear that the permit is the lawful route for commercial tutoring activity.
Dubai oversight for tutoring businesses
In Dubai, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) continues to regulate private education providers, training institutes and tuition centres operating as businesses in the emirate. Operators of tuition centres should ensure any additional KHDA approvals are obtained where required.
The rules and procedural details are set out in the ministerial resolution published by MoHRE and MoE and in the online permit service pages. The ministerial text specifies categories, documentation, validity and procedural matters for the Private Teacher Work Permit.
