Abu Dhabi’s education sector has recorded notable progress in the latest round of evaluations under the Irtiqa’a inspection programme. The comprehensive review, conducted by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), revealed that 13 private schools achieved an Outstanding rating, while 23 institutions moved up to a Good rating. Despite these improvements, five schools continue to be rated as Weak, underscoring the need for ongoing oversight and support.

Irtiqa’a Programme and Its Purpose

The Irtiqa’a inspection framework was established to measure school performance against international standards. Its primary goal is to ensure that students in Abu Dhabi receive high-quality education aligned with global benchmarks. The programme evaluates various aspects of school operations, including teaching quality, student outcomes, leadership effectiveness, and overall learning environments.

Outstanding Achievements Among Private Schools

Thirteen private schools secured the top-tier Outstanding rating in this latest round of inspections. This recognition reflects their ability to consistently deliver excellent teaching practices, maintain strong academic results, and foster positive learning environments for students. Such achievements highlight the growing competitiveness of Abu Dhabi’s private education sector and its alignment with international best practices.

Schools Moving Up to Good

A significant number of institutions—23 in total—demonstrated measurable improvement by advancing to a Good rating. This upward movement indicates that targeted efforts by school leaders and educators are paying off. It also shows that ADEK’s continuous monitoring and support mechanisms are helping schools strengthen their academic standards and student outcomes over time.

Challenges for Weak-Rated Schools

While many schools showed progress, five institutions remain categorized as Weak under the inspection criteria. These schools will continue to face close monitoring from ADEK to ensure they address shortcomings effectively. The department emphasizes accountability while also providing guidance and resources aimed at raising performance levels in struggling institutions. Ensuring that no school falls behind remains a central objective of the inspection programme.

The Broader Impact on Education Quality

The findings from this report reflect an overall upward trend in educational quality across Abu Dhabi’s private sector. By holding schools accountable through transparent evaluations, ADEK encourages continuous development and improvement across all levels of performance. Parents benefit from greater clarity when choosing schools for their children, while educators gain valuable feedback on areas requiring attention or enhancement.

The latest Irtiqa’a report demonstrates both progress and ongoing challenges within Abu Dhabi’s private education system. With 13 schools excelling at an Outstanding level and many others improving their ratings, the trajectory is largely positive. However, the continued presence of Weak-rated institutions highlights the importance of sustained oversight and support to ensure every student has access to quality learning opportunities across the emirate.