Dubai school application fee of Dh500 does not secure a place

Schools in Dubai are regulated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority, part of Dubai Government, which permits all private schools in Dubai to charge up to Dh500 per application per child on a non-refundable basis.

My family and I are moving to Dubai over the summer, so I am in the process of looking for school places for our two children. I have contacted several schools that would be suitable, but each school is asking for a fee of Dh500 just to accept an application, and that is per child. Is it right that every school can charge this fee even if no place is offered and that they do not have to pay it back? What's to stop a school taking this money from us even if no places are likely to be available? I just want to be sure we are not being asked for money without good reason. DP, Ireland

Schools in Dubai are regulated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), part of Dubai Government, which permits all private schools in Dubai to charge up to Dh500 per application per child on a non-refundable basis. The fee means a child goes on a waiting list for a place, but does not offer any guarantees. Earlier this year it was reported that the KHDA is considering some kind of streamlined single application process. There would still be a fee, but it could be less expensive.

Keren Bobker is an independent financial adviser with Holborn Assets in Dubai, with over 20 years experience. Contact her at [e-mail]. Follow her on Twitter at @FinancialUAE

The advice provided in our columns does not constitute legal advice and is provided for information only. Readers are encouraged to seek appropriate independent legal advice

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