Abu Dhabi is pushing to increase the number of Emiratis working in private schools across the emirate, with a major recruitment drive underway.
What the initiative means for Emirati students
The move is part of a broader effort to enhance Emirati representation in the private education sector, with the government aiming to create more job opportunities for locals.
According to Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, the initiative is expected to benefit over 1,000 Emirati students who are currently studying education-related fields.
The Abu Dhabi government has set a target to increase the number of Emiratis working in private schools by 30% over the next two years, with a focus on hiring teachers and administrative staff.
The recruitment drive is being led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, in collaboration with the private schools sector, with the aim of creating a more diverse and inclusive education environment.
Boosting Emirati staff numbers
According to officials, the initiative is expected to lead to a significant increase in the number of Emiratis working in private schools, with many schools already reporting a surge in local applications.
As of this year, there are over 200 private schools in Abu Dhabi, employing over 10,000 teachers and staff, with the majority being expatriates.
The Abu Dhabi government has set a target to hire 500 Emiratis in the private education sector by the end of 2026, with a focus on hiring teachers, administrators, and support staff.
The recruitment drive is being supported by a range of initiatives, including job fairs, career counseling, and training programs, to help Emirati students develop the skills and qualifications needed to work in the private education sector.
Supporting Emirati students
The move is seen as a major boost for Emirati students, who will now have more opportunities to work in their own community and develop their skills in the education sector.
The Abu Dhabi government has also announced plans to establish a new training program for Emirati students, which will provide them with the skills and qualifications needed to work in the private education sector.
The program will be led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, in collaboration with the private schools sector, and will provide Emirati students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop their skills in a real-world setting.
The Abu Dhabi government has also announced plans to provide financial incentives to private schools that hire Emirati staff, with a focus on supporting schools that are committed to increasing Emirati representation in the private education sector.
Implementation and timeline
The recruitment drive is expected to be implemented over the next two years, with a focus on hiring Emirati staff in the private education sector.
The Abu Dhabi government has set a target to hire 250 Emiratis in the private education sector by the end of 2026, with a focus on hiring teachers, administrators, and support staff.
The recruitment drive is being supported by a range of initiatives, including job fairs, career counseling, and training programs, to help Emirati students develop the skills and qualifications needed to work in the private education sector.





