MOE to Review Dubai Private School On-Site Learning Requests on Case by Case Basis

As uncertainty continues around when students will return to classrooms, Dubai’s education regulator has offered schools a conditional pathway back to in person learning while keeping distance education in place for now.

In a statement, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority confirmed that remote learning will remain in the immediate term.

A KHDA spokesperson said,

“In line with the announcement by the Education, Human Development and Community Council, KHDA confirms that all private educational institutions in Dubai will continue distance learning until Friday, April 3, 2026.”

Conditional Pathway to Reopening

Any move back to campuses is expected to be carefully scrutinised. Schools that wish to resume in person classes must submit formal applications explaining their readiness and justification. The spokesperson said,

“Institutions that wish to apply for a return to on-site learning must submit a formal request to KHDA, outlining the specific circumstances and providing clear justification. These requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis and will be reviewed by the Ministry of Education in accordance with the approved regulations and procedures. The safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and the wider community will be the key factor.”

Nationwide Approach and Ongoing Reviews

For families across the UAE, the continuation of remote learning means at least another week of online classes. The shift to distance learning began on March 2 and continued after the spring break ended on March 22.

Nationwide, the Ministry of Education has confirmed that distance learning will continue for two weeks at the start of the third term, with weekly reviews to assess the situation.

Schools Prepare for Possible Return

Behind the scenes, schools are preparing for a potential return by strengthening health, safety and safeguarding measures. These include staggered arrivals, tighter supervision and detailed operational planning.

Education leaders emphasise that student wellbeing remains the priority regardless of the learning format.

Taaleem CEO Alan Williamson said,

“Our priority is to ensure that every student continues to learn in a safe, supportive, and stable environment, whether on campus or through distance learning.”

Applications Already Underway

Some schools have already begun the process of applying for reopening while also engaging with parents.

Simon Crane, Headmaster of Brighton College Dubai, said,

“We have responded promptly to the KHDA update and are already in the process of preparing and submitting our application. Our intention is to reopen for full in-person learning at the earliest safe opportunity, subject to regulatory approval.”

He added that the framework requires strong preparation.

“The KHDA circular provides schools with the option to apply for a return to onsite, in-person learning, subject to meeting regulatory requirements. It places emphasis on schools demonstrating readiness across key areas, including health and safety, operational planning, and continuity of education.”

Phased Return for Selected Students

GEMS Education has also indicated plans to reopen certain schools for specific year groups, pending approval.

Nauman Ali Khan, Chief Risk and Assurance Officer, GEMS Education, said,

“We have already applied to KHDA to reopen select schools for specific year groups next week, subject to regulatory approval. This reflects our commitment to ensuring continuity of learning within a safe and controlled environment.”

He added, “The KHDA circular provides guidance relating to a phased and optional return to in-person learning, subject to strict safety protocols and school readiness. It emphasises flexibility, allowing schools to proceed based on their individual risk assessments, while ensuring that distance learning remains available for families who prefer it.”

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