With authorities closely monitoring the situation and issuing guidance, schools are taking this time to plan for all contingencies.
As Indian curriculum schools across the UAE gear up for the new academic year, which typically begins in April, uncertainty over whether students will return to classrooms or continue online is causing concern for both educators and parents.
While authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance, schools are using this period to prepare for every eventuality. From teacher training to parent surveys, the emphasis is on maintaining continuity of learning while safeguarding student wellbeing.
For many families, the uncertainty remains the greatest challenge. Even as support systems are put in place, concerns about emotional stability, daily routines, and access to devices continue to shape discussions at home.
School leaders emphasize that lessons learned from previous phases of distance learning are helping them stay agile, ready to switch formats while keeping students engaged and supported.
Preparing for a Digital Start
Some schools are already moving into preparation mode ahead of their March start dates.
Principal Abhilasha Singh of Shining Star International School said the groundwork is well underway. “We begin our academic year on March 30, and from today, we’ve started professional development sessions with our teachers,” she explained.
With guidelines now in place, schools are ensuring teachers are equipped and aligned. “ADEK has shared distance learning policies, which we are breaking down so staff are fully prepared,” Singh added.
Schools are also addressing equity concerns at home. “We are conducting a survey with parents to understand whether they have sufficient devices at home, as part of our efforts to ensure access for all students,” she said.
Balancing Readiness with Reassurance
For schools starting slightly later, the approach is one of cautious readiness.
David Jones, Principal of Springdales School Dubai, said they are taking cues from regulators while preparing for a smooth transition if needed. “Our academic year begins on April 6, which gives us adequate time to prepare. Contingency plans are already in place,” he said.
Drawing on past experience, he expressed confidence in the system’s adaptability. “If day one is online, our prior experience with blended and online learning has equipped teachers, students, and parents well. We anticipate a structured and supportive start, with clear schedules, orientation sessions, and ongoing guidance to ensure a smooth adjustment for all.”
Jones also highlighted the emotional aspect. “At this stage, the primary concern among families is uncertainty. Younger students, in particular, need reassurance and routine to stay confident,” he noted.
Staying Prepared Behind the Scenes
Echoing these sentiments, Fatima Martin, Principal/CEO of GEMS New Millennium School, said institutions are aligned with official directives while staying ready behind the scenes. “We are guided by KHDA and UAE regulations. Schools are scheduled to resume on-site learning from April 6, and families will be updated promptly if plans change,” she said.
Preparations for remote learning are already in place. “Our teams are fully prepared, with learning plans, MS Teams structures, and VLE training for all stakeholders,” Martin added.
She also highlighted evolving parental concerns: “Families are expressing a blend of academic and emotional concerns — less about screen time and more about uncertainty. Their biggest questions relate to learning continuity, Board Exam assessment schemes, event timelines, and the emotional wellbeing of children navigating this period.
