Kamal Ghorui
Classrooms across the UAE are set to reopen, with authorities confirming that all students and staff will return to in-person learning from April 20, while private schools retain the option to adopt a hybrid model where needed. The Ministry of Education announced that in-person learning will resume for all enrolled children, students, educational staff and administrative staff in both public and private nurseries, kindergartens and schools from Monday, 20 April 2026. The decision comes after schools completed required readiness measures, including facility preparations, staff training, and updated safety and security procedures aimed at ensuring a safe and reassuring environment for students and their families. The ministry said private schools will have the flexibility to implement a hybrid rotational model if necessary, in line with approved regulations and under the supervision of local education authorities. The approach is intended to reflect the readiness of individual institutions and support smooth implementation. It added that schools opting for the hybrid model must organise staff deployment carefully to maintain continuity of learning. Teachers should not be required to deliver both in-person and remote lessons at the same time, in order to protect education quality and manage workloads effectively. Authorities also stated that all educational institutions will remain prepared to shift to alternative learning modes if required, ensuring continuity of education with flexibility. Following the announcement, Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority said private schools in the emirate will resume on-site learning based on their readiness and full compliance with health and safety measures set by relevant authorities.
