As a parent, choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions you make, and now it has just become easier in Abu Dhabi.

The Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has launched a new initiative that places clear, informative plaques at school entrances across the emirate. These plaques display each school’s Irtiqa’a rating and National Identity Mark, giving families a quick snapshot of school quality the moment they walk in.

It’s a move that prioritises transparency, helping parents like us make more informed choices for our children’s education.

According to Sulaiman Al Ameri, Acting Executive Director of ADEK’s Private Education and Charter Schools Sector, these plaques go beyond numbers. “They represent a school’s commitment to academic excellence and national values,” he said.

What do the plaques show?

• Irtiqa’a Rating: This is a detailed evaluation of the school’s overall performance, covering everything from academic achievement and teaching quality to leadership and student wellbeing.
• National Identity Mark: A reflection of how well a school promotes Emirati culture, values, and citizenship, something many families value deeply.

In the next phase, ADEK will also introduce a Wellbeing Mark to highlight how schools care for students’ emotional and physical wellbeing, an area many parents are increasingly focused on.

Parents are encouraged to look for these plaques when visiting schools and to explore more about what each rating means through ADEK’s website or their parent-friendly app, Rayah.