What Is KHDA and Why KHDA Attestation Matters for Students in Dubai
Families relocating to Dubai often hear the words “KHDA attestation” during the school admission process. While it may sound complicated, understanding KHDA — and why attestation is required — makes the entire journey much simpler.
What Is KHDA?
The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) is Dubai’s education regulator. KHDA ensures that every school in the emirate meets the highest standards of quality, safety, academic rigour, and wellbeing.
KHDA works closely with schools to:
- Monitor teaching and learning
- Protect student rights
- Maintain safety and compliance
- Support parent-school communication
- Publish school inspection ratings
- Guide schools in continuous improvement
For families, KHDA provides transparency and reassurance — ensuring their children receive a world-class educational experience.
What Is KHDA Attestation?
When a child moves schools — whether from another country or within the UAE — their previous school documents must be verified. This verification is known as KHDA attestation.
KHDA attests documents to confirm:
- The child’s academic records are genuine
- The grade level is accurate
- Transferring to the new school is aligned with Dubai’s educational framework
- The student is placed correctly, without academic gaps
It is a safeguard that ensures fairness, accuracy, and smooth transitions for every student.
Why Is KHDA Attestation Important?
Attestation protects students and schools by ensuring:
- Correct placement in the right year group
- Validity of previous school certificates
- Transparency in academic history
- Compliance with Dubai regulations
- Smooth movement across schools in the emirate
Without attestation, enrolment cannot be completed.
Documents That Typically Require KHDA Attestation
The documents may vary slightly by school, but families generally need:
- Latest school report card
- Transfer/Leaving Certificate
- Immunisation/vaccination records
- Passport and Emirates ID copies
- Birth certificate
- Previous curriculum equivalency documents (if applicable)
Schools guide parents step-by-step through the process, ensuring nothing is missed.
Making the Process Simple for Families
Most schools in Dubai now offer end-to-end support, helping parents:
- Understand which documents are needed
- Submit papers electronically
- Track attestation status
- Complete requirements without unnecessary stress
With the right guidance, the process is smooth, quick, and parent-friendly.
A System Designed to Protect Students
KHDA attestation is not just a formality — it is a system designed to ensure every child receives equitable, transparent, and high-quality education in Dubai.
