• Established in 2023, the Ras Al Khaimah Department of Knowledge aims to elevate educational services and ensure the quality of learning outcomes in the emirate
  • The MoU aims to gradually delegate the powers to regulate the private education sector in the emirate from the Ministry of Education to the Ras Al Khaimah Department of Knowledge
  • RAK DOK will focus on the comprehensiveness of education and empowering students of determination

Ras Al Khaimah: The Ras Al Khaimah Department of Knowledge (RAK DOK) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Education (MoE) to gradually delegate the powers to regulate the private education sector in the emirate to the RAK DOK until the end of 2024. The move aligns with the objectives of Ras Al Khaimah's Vision 2030, and the national aspirations aimed at continuing to advance the educational system to keep pace with the latest global trends.

Her Excellency Dr. Rabaa Al Sumaiti, Undersecretary for the Performance Improvement Sector at the MoE, and His Excellency Dr. Abdulrahman Al Naqbi, RAK DOK Board Member, signed the MoU. According to the MoU, RAK DOK will adopt a new approach that focuses on improving educational services and enhancing their quality to meet the best international standards, in line with the future development goals of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.

Her Excellency Dr. Rabaa Al Sumaiti stressed the pivotal role of RAK DOK in supporting efforts to develop the educational system in the emirate, fostering competitiveness and efficiency. She emphasised the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the department in enhancing private education in Ras Al Khaimah, aligning with students’ aspirations, and attracting top-tier international educational institutions.

Her Excellency added: “This MoU marks the first step of our strategic collaboration with the Ras Al Khaimah Department of Knowledge, aimed at supporting their team in fulfilling their responsibilities and efficiently attaining the department’s strategic objectives. We look forward to strengthening our cooperation with the department and all our local partners to enhance every facet of the education system in the country.”

The MoU supports the RAK DOK’s efforts towards elevating the private education system in the emirate while promoting excellence and innovation, as well as working to attract top-tier international educational and academic institutions, to solidify its position as a leading education destination.

His Excellency Dr. Abdulrahman Al Naqbi said: “Ras Al Khaimah Department of Knowledge is thrilled to embark on this journey with our partners at the Ministry of Education. This is a highly notable and exciting new chapter in our collective efforts to enhance educational outcomes in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. By joining forces, we have a unique opportunity to elevate educational standards to global levels and address the diverse needs of all students, including students of determination.”

His Excellency added: “It’s an exciting time for the education sector in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. RAK DOK will play an essential role in overseeing, supporting and illuminating the path towards excellence in education. We look forward to reaping the fruits of our partnership with the Ministry of Education and its contribution to embodying the UAE’s vision to achieve excellence and quality in the private education sector in Ras Al Khaimah, and to enable students to achieve higher levels of academic excellence.”

His Excellency Dr. Al Naqbi praised the work teams for improving the quality of life for students, educators, and faculty, enriching the educational experience, and raising academic performance levels.

Comprising four directorates, RAK DOK will oversee Licensing and Compliance, Operations and Engagement, Quality and Assessment and Strategy & Policy for the private education sector. The activities of these departments are integrated to build a comprehensive educational system for all levels of education.

With a growing population comprising both nationals and expatriates from all over the world, Ras Al Khaimah boasts a progressive educational landscape. Currently, the Emirate hosts a total of 107 schools, encompassing both public and private institutions, offering a range of curricula that cater to the needs of its segments. In 2022, the Emirate was added to UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities.

About Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is the northernmost of the seven Emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. It is known for its diverse landscape, from 64km of beaches, to deserts and imposing mountains, as well as its rich history, dating back 7,000 years. It has many archaeological sites, four of which have been shortlisted on UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites. The Emirate’s Jebel Jais, which is the highest mountain in the UAE, boasts attractions including Jebel Jais Flight, the world’s longest zip line at almost 3km, and 1484 by Puro, the UAE’s highest restaurant. Ras Al Khaimah is centrally located at the modern crossroads between Europe, Asia and Africa, with one third of the world’s population within four hours’ flying time, making it an ideal location for businesses to expand into the UAE, the Middle East and Africa region and beyond. The Emirate boasts one of the most diverse economies in the region, with no single sector accounting for more than 30% of the Emirate’s GDP – a critical advantage that enhances Ras Al Khaimah’s economic flexibility and strength. Ras Al Khaimah has been rated in the ‘A’ range by Fitch and Standard & Poor’s international ratings agencies for 15 years. Ras Al Khaimah is a multicultural society, with a population of 0.4 million people in 2023. With year-round sunshine, straightforward business set-up and a competitive and affordable cost of living, Ras Al Khaimah is the informed choice for business, lifestyle and exploration.