Students across Indian schools in the United Arab Emirates have begun the new academic year online, logging into virtual classrooms instead of returning to campus as regional tensions shape the start of term.
What is usually a period marked by excitement, new routines and fresh beginnings has this year unfolded through screens, as families adapt to a different kind of school experience.
Shift to Online Learning Amid Uncertainty
The move to remote learning comes against the backdrop of the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict, which has created uncertainty across the region. For many families, the start of the academic year has brought not only logistical changes but also heightened concern.
School leaders say the focus has shifted beyond academics in the early days, with priority given to ensuring that students feel safe, settled and connected, particularly as they join lessons from varied locations.
At the same time, schools have had to adapt key processes such as admissions, orientation, timetables and classroom engagement to a fully virtual environment.
Emotional Wellbeing Takes Priority
Educators highlight emotional readiness as one of the most significant challenges at the start of term.
“Commencing the new academic year online today has certainly come with its share of challenges, but it has also brought out the resilience, adaptability, and unity of the school community. The first challenge has been emotional readiness. In the light of the current situation in the UAE and the regional uncertainty reflected in media reports, many families have naturally begun the year with anxiety and a need for reassurance.”
Dr Sheeba Jojo, Principal at GEMS Our Own English High School
She explained that schools are working to create stability and calm before focusing on academic progress.
“A second challenge has been the practical reality that not all families are beginning the year under the same circumstances. Many students are logging in from different locations, and that school processes such as admissions and enrolment have had to move online as well.”
She added that in a Central Board of Secondary Education school context, where April marks the start of a new academic year, this introduces complexity around onboarding, orientation, textbooks and timetables.
“This includes onboarding, orientation, textbook readiness, timetables, and ensuring every child feels settled from day one. We are addressing this through staggered orientation, simplified communication, online helpdesks, and close pastoral follow-up, especially for younger children and new entrants.”
Maintaining engagement, particularly among younger students, has also emerged as a key concern. Schools are incorporating structured routines, wellbeing checks and interactive lesson design to support participation.
Pre Term Orientation Supports Transition
At The Indian Academy School Dubai, early planning helped ease the transition to online learning.
“The primary challenge was ensuring readiness across students, parents, and teachers, particularly for younger learners and newly admitted students. To address this, the school implemented pre-term orientation and demonstration sessions, enabling families to familiarise themselves with digital platforms, classroom expectations, and online interaction. Another key focus was maintaining a meaningful and engaging first day. This was addressed through ‘WOW Welcome Day’ activities, including creative introductions, collaborative tasks, and wellbeing-focused sessions, helping students feel connected from the outset.”
Prarthana Kale, Acting Principal
Supporting First Time Learners and Families
Schools also noted the added pressure on working parents and younger students starting school for the first time.
“One of the key challenges has been supporting our youngest learners, especially KG1 students, many of whom are experiencing formal schooling for the very first time in a virtual environment.”
Shiny Davison, Principal at Woodlem Park School Ajman
She explained that additional support has been provided to families through training and trial sessions.
“We began with comprehensive Zoom training sessions for all stakeholders, followed by trial classes to help students become comfortable with online learning routines,” she said, adding that structured schedules have helped families manage daily lessons more effectively.
Adapting Education for Continuity
As schools continue to navigate the situation, the emphasis remains on balancing academic continuity with emotional support. By rethinking delivery methods and prioritising wellbeing, educators aim to ensure students remain engaged and supported during an uncertain start to the academic year.
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Further Reading:
- Live Lesson in Great Leadership as UAE Schools Switch to Remote Learning With Ease
- UAE Distance Learning Guide for Parents, Term 3 2026