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Abu Dhabi’s Department of Education and Knowledge (AdEC) issued new school transport rules for the academic year 2025-26, which prioritizes safety, discipline and smoother travel for students. The updated policy is clear responsibilities to schools, parents and transport providers.
Safety comes first
Schools are fully responsible for students’ safety during bus trips, even if third 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 definite supervisor on the board.
Children under 15 need supervision in adults
Under the new rules, no student can travel under 15 to or from school without going through an adult. If a parent or designed guardian is not at the decline, the child will be taken back to school after the bus has finished his route.
Parents can authorize older siblings, 15 or higher than parent, to pick up your children (grade 1 and above). A signed consent form is needed, confirming that the older sibling is mature enough and understands the responsibility. Schools will not be held liable for any issues that arise under this arrangement.
Non-school transport for older students
Cycle 3 students (Grades 9-12, ages 14-18) may use alternative transport such as bikes or scoost. Parents must sign a consent form, as schools are only responsible for supervision once the child is on campus.
School bus rules
- School buses are only for student transport.
- Tourist buses can be used for school trips if they meet safety standards (seat belts, fire extinguishers, first aid sets).
- Travel times should not excess 60 minutes from first pick -up to final waste.
- Students will only be picked up or downloaded at designated points. Supervisors must ensure that a guardian for children under 11 is present; Otherwise, the child will be returned to the school.
Fees and regulation
Bus fees are determined according to the Integrated Transport Center (ITC) framework and must be approved by adk. Any exceptional increase requires ITC approval.
Staff and training requirements
- All bus drivers and supervisors must be licensed by ITC.
- Supervisors are compulsory for buses that transport children under 11.
- Only female supervisors may be assigned unless the bus with older students is all boys.
Traffic management at schools
Schools are expected to drive traffic during busy hours by appointing trained staff to oversee the delivery and collection. Emergency plans and communication procedures must also be updated and share with few. In addition, schools must assign parking spaces for buses and staff vehicles.
