Classes are set to reopen in the UAE, 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 necessary. The Ministry of Education announced that in-person education 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 have completed the necessary preparation measures, including facility preparation, staff training and updated safety and security procedures, aimed at ensuring a safe and reassuring environment for students and their families. The ministry said that if necessary, private schools will have the freedom to implement the hybrid rotational model in accordance with the approved rules and under the supervision of local education authorities. This approach is intended to reflect the readiness of individual institutions and support smooth implementation. It said schools choosing the hybrid model should deploy staff carefully to maintain continuity of learning. To protect the quality of education and manage workload effectively, teachers should not be required to deliver both in-person and remote lessons at the same time. The officials also said that to ensure continuity of education with flexibility, all educational institutions will be ready to shift to alternative teaching mode as and when required. Following the announcement, Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority said that private schools in the emirate will resume on-site education depending on their preparedness and full compliance with the health and safety measures set by the relevant authorities.
