A few UAE private schools may soon return to in-person learning
According to Gulf News, private schools across the UAE may soon welcome students back to classrooms, with some operators hoping to resume in-person learning from next week Monday, March 30, 2026.
Following recent guidance from UAE authorities, schools, nurseries and universities have been given the option to apply for a return to face-to-face teaching, depending on their operational requirements. Each request will be reviewed in coordination with the relevant authorities before approval is granted.
One of the first major education providers to act is Taaleem, which operates a network of schools across the UAE. The group has begun the process of applying to reopen campuses, with the aim of bringing students back to classrooms from Monday March 30, subject to approval.
What’s the current situation?
On March 1, 2026, the UAE Government Media Office confirmed that schools and universities across the country would temporarily move to remote learning from Monday March 2 to Wednesday March 4. This was later extended to March 6, with spring break brought forward and distance learning continuing after the break until April 3, 2026.
The decision applies to all students, as well as academic and administrative staff, across both public and private schools and universities.
Now, with the option for a phased return in place, schools are assessing their readiness and submitting applications where appropriate.
Also read: Expert advice on how to talk to your kids about coping with uncertainty
What happens next?
There’s no set return date just yet. Instead, each school’s request will be reviewed individually, meaning timelines could vary depending on approvals and preparedness.
For parents and students, this means a potential shift back to in-person learning could happen as early as next week – but final confirmation will come directly from schools once approvals are in place.
More updates are expected in the coming days as authorities review applications and schools share their plans.
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