While some UAE parents have chosen to opt out of school bus services for the upcoming year, others are inquiring about refunds for fees they have already paid.
As UAE parents navigate the complexities of online schooling for their children amid ongoing regional tensions, many are focusing on a pressing issue: school transportation.
While some parents in the UAE have chosen to give up their spots on school buses for the upcoming year, others are asking whether they will receive a refund for the fees they’ve already paid.
Schools across the UAE switched to online education in early March as a precaution in response to escalating regional tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, leading to temporary distance learning arrangements for students nationwide.
Parents are now grappling with how school transportation fees should be handled during the extended period of remote learning, with many seeking clarity on refunds or adjustments given that buses aren’t being used.
The school transport measure was initially extended until Friday, March 6, before authorities announced an early spring break.
On Monday, March 23, many students resumed classes online, a setup expected to continue for two weeks until April 6. With uncertainty over when schools will fully reopen, parents are now reassessing their transportation arrangements and weighing the financial implications.
For some, the decision to delay payment stems from a lack of clarity. Dubai parent Husna Javad, whose two children aged 13 and seven use bus services, explained her hesitation.
“Schools sent an email last week from the transport provider asking us to register to keep our place on the bus,” she said. “When I tried to register, it took me to the payment link. Given the current uncertainty, I don’t want to pay a lump sum for bus services right now, especially since we don’t know when schools will reopen. The email warns that we risk losing our spot, but that is a risk I am willing to take under the circumstances.”
Similarly, Abu Dhabi resident Amina, who had planned bus services for her six-year-old daughter Huda this term, has decided to hold off.
“I recently started a new job and can’t handle pick-ups and drop-offs,” she said. “I had registered for bus service for the third term, but luckily I hadn’t paid yet. I’ve decided to wait until there’s more clarity about when children will return to school.”
Possibility of refunds
For parents who have already paid upfront, the financial stakes are higher. Mohammed Salim, a father of three, is questioning whether he is entitled to a refund.
“Our school requires a yearly payment for bus services,” he said. “I paid Dh10,000 for each of my three children in September. Since March began, they haven’t used the buses. I believe I’m eligible for a refund for the remaining term if online classes continue. I’ve emailed the provider but haven’t received a reply yet.”
He added that he was optimistic the provider would offer a solution. “During the pandemic lockdown, which also happened in March, our provider refunded the remaining fees for the year, so I’m confident they will do something similar now.”
Another parent, who requested anonymity, said she had contacted the bus provider during spring break but had yet to hear back. “If I don’t receive a response in the coming week, I plan to approach the KHDA to lodge a complaint,” she said.
