New UAE work permit: Parents hail ‘legal, less expensive’ tuition for children

They hail the new permit, seeing it as a way to get more affordable, higher quality, and trustworthy tutors for their kids

For parents in the UAE, the new work permit for tutors will pave the way for “legal and more affordable” private lessons for their children.

Those eligible for the licence include registered teachers in both government and private schools, workers in government and private sectors, unemployed individuals, as well as students who are at least 15 years old.

Filipino expat Ben Lebig, who has a daughter in Grade 10, said: “This is a welcome move for sure as it will make the tuition market more competitive. Usually, the existing tutorial clubs are very expensive and it can be quite a burden for many parents, especially if they have more than one child in senior grades.”

He said that as children grow older, they might need lessons in mathematics, science, Arabic, or foreign languages. “When there are regulations in place then getting external help at affordable rates becomes an option for parents.”

Besides more affordable opportunities, it would also create a bigger pool of highly qualified tutors who would be willing to take on private classes.

“As parents, we may have the option of reaching out to a qualified person well within our community who is capable of imparting lessons that are worth the money and time. This will also help avoid longer travel times for tuitions with pupils already tired after school.”

French expat Christine Quartier La Tente, a mother to a 12-year-old, said: “I am thinking both from the perspective of a parent and a stay-at-home mother who can probably utilise her skills by getting this permit and making myself more employable.”

The resident, who lives in Danube 2, explains why distance can be a barrier. “My daughter would need help in subjects like Arabic. Since I live in a community that’s quite far away from the buzz of the city, it’s not always an option for me to drive her around for tuitions, especially during the late evenings. If more qualified people get this permit, I have more choice as a parent to explore different tutors within my vicinity, and to gauge which teacher is offering lessons at a more affordable rate that suits my pocket.”

She also acknowledges the possibility of some individuals quietly offering lessons before this. Christine underlines that the official announcement of permits reassures parents, increasing their trust in licensed instructors for their children.

“As I am from France, I can on the other hand impart French lessons to children or teach another subject that interests me and that can be a source of income for my family. I’m acquainted with numerous talented individuals within my community who possess the ability to impart their knowledge and skills to others. This permit will support such individuals, and I intend to apply for it myself.”

Meanwhile, Springs resident Bhavya Rao, who is a mother of two children, said that regulating the teaching profession comprehensively is crucial. She said that it is important to guarantee that every adult working with children possesses the necessary qualifications and “adheres strictly to safeguarding standards.”