UAE Back to School 2026: Record 1.27 million students to return with phased start and new reforms

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to welcome a record 1.27 million students back to classrooms on August 31, marking the country's largest return to school since disruptions caused by the US-Iran war. The Ministry of Education confirms all students will return this year, with contingency plans in place in case circumstances change again.

Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah authorities are preparing for the influx. Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed traffic improvements at six school-zone locations and launched a 30-day intensive bus inspection campaign for the school bus fleet. Abu Dhabi will deploy 10,000 school buses to serve over 279,000 pupils, while Sharjah will intensify bus inspections and implement its Ma man system, allowing drivers to send emergency alerts.

Teachers and school staff have undergone specialized training to prepare for the new academic year. The UAE Ministry of Education conducted a Specialised Training Week from August 24 to 28, covering topics such as AI integration, inclusive education and school safety. GEMS Education, a major private education provider, is welcoming 1,550 new teachers this year, bringing its educator community to over 10,000.

Several reforms are being implemented for the 2026-27 academic year. Kindergarten to Grade 2 students will not receive homework, with a focus on daily reading instead. Grade 6 students in public schools will use pen and paper for core subjects, following a pilot study showing improved performance and focus. Grade 9 to 12 students will have a 50-50 split between centralised and school-based tests for certain subjects, while a new evaluation programme will begin this first semester, running over two academic years.