Abu Dhabi’s Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has issued new school transport rules for the 2025–26 academic year, prioritizing safety, discipline, and smoother travel for students. The updated policy places clear responsibilities on schools, parents, and transport providers.
Schools are fully responsible for student safety during bus travel, even if third-party operators provide the service. All students will receive training on bus and pedestrian safety. For younger children under the age of 11, buses must have a dedicated supervisor on board.
Under the new rules, no student younger than 15 can travel to or from school without being accompanied by an adult. If a parent or designated guardian is not present at the drop-off point, the child will be taken back to school after the bus finishes its route.
Parents can authorize older siblings, aged 15 or above, to pick up younger children (Grade 1 and above). A signed consent form is required, confirming that the elder sibling is mature enough and understands the responsibility. Schools will not be held accountable for any issues that arise under this arrangement.
Cycle 3 students (Grades 9–12, ages 14–18) are allowed to use alternative transport such as bicycles or scooters. Parents must sign a consent form, as schools are only responsible for supervision once the child is on campus.
Bus fees are set according to the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) framework and must be approved by ADEK. Any exceptional increase requires ITC approval.
Schools are required to manage traffic during busy hours by appointing trained staff to oversee drop-off and pick-up. Emergency plans and communication procedures must also be updated and shared with parents. Additionally, schools must allocate parking spaces for buses and staff vehicles.