Schools preparing to reopen in the UAE confirm aerial threat protocols and safety measures to protect students.
Dubai: As several of the UAE’s largest private school groups seek regulatory approval to reopen campuses ahead of the April 3 distance learning deadline, they are detailing the steps taken to safeguard students and staff amid ongoing Iranian threats.
From emergency lockdown frameworks to transport contingencies, the measures illustrate how schools are preparing for multiple scenarios, while confirming that hybrid learning options will remain available for those who prefer to continue online classes.
Dubai’s education regulator outlines reopening requirements
The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has confirmed that any school seeking to resume in-person learning must submit a formal request with clear justification. Each application will be reviewed by the Ministry of Education on a case-by-case basis, with student safety as the top priority.
Multi-layered risk assessment
Leams Group, operating four schools across five campuses in Dubai, has applied to reopen specifically for examination cohorts, as British curriculum board exams are scheduled to begin in April.
Leams Education plans targeted reopening for exam cohorts
Nabil Hasan Lahir, CEO of Leams Education, told Gulf News that the proposed reopening will be limited to identified examination groups only, enabling accurate assessments, completion of essential mock exams, and focused preparation for board papers.
A comprehensive, multi-layered risk assessment has been conducted, covering facility readiness, staff availability, and aerial threat response procedures. “All facilities are fully functional and compliant with safety requirements. Staff availability stands at 100 per cent,” Lahir confirmed.
Emergency Response Framework for Safe Reopening
According to Nabil Hasan Lahir, a detailed reopening plan has been formally submitted to KHDA, with the group’s Emergency Response Framework covering key protocols:
- Aerial threats: Students are moved immediately to designated internal safe zones upon official advisories, with real-time coordination with UAE authorities.
- Lockdown and evacuation: Clear procedures exist for both internal lockdowns and controlled evacuations, supported by regular drills to ensure staff and students are prepared.
- Risk mitigation: Ongoing assessments align with national guidance, with controlled campus access and strict supervision of entry and exit points.
- Transport contingencies: Students remain safely on campus until secure transport is confirmed, with continuous communication to parents regarding delays or changes.
- Continuity planning: Structured plans allow for temporary closure, phased reopening, or swift transition back to distance learning if directed by authorities.
- Staff preparedness: All staff are trained in emergency response, evacuation, and first aid, with clear internal communication channels for coordinated action.
Reviewed and rehearsed protocols
Alan Williamson, CEO of Taaleem, noted that the group’s schools maintain comprehensive emergency procedures that are regularly reviewed and rehearsed.
“These include clear protocols for a range of scenarios, ensuring the ability to respond quickly to changing circumstances, communicate effectively with families, and transition seamlessly back to distance learning if required,” Williamson said.
Safety and Security at the Forefront
School leaders emphasize that student and staff safety remains the top priority, supported by clear, coordinated action at every stage.
“At every stage, the safety and wellbeing of our students and staff remains paramount, with all planning focused on providing a safe, controlled, and supportive learning environment. We understand that this is an uncertain time for many families, and our focus throughout has been to provide reassurance, clarity, and flexibility, while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our entire school community,” school officials said.
Comprehensive Planning for Reopening
Nauman Ali Khan, Chief Risk and Assurance Officer at GEMS Education, confirmed that the group has conducted multi-factor risk assessments for schools proposed to reopen, taking into account location, building characteristics, and perimeter safety.
He clarified that only select schools are being reopened next week for certain year groups, providing a secure environment for senior students preparing for exams.
Emergency Protocols Strengthened
GEMS Education has reviewed and updated its emergency response plans to reflect current threat conditions.
“Our schools benefit from comprehensive emergency response plans. These plans have been reviewed and modified to take into account current threat factors. We have also examined school-specific emergency arrangements. Only schools deemed safe through our internal risk assessment are being proposed for reopening,” said Nauman Ali Khan, Chief Risk and Assurance Officer at GEMS Education.
Prepared, Even If Not Reopening Yet
Other schools that have not applied to reopen early are still preparing for a seamless and safe return to campus if needed.
Woodlem Education, which operates eight schools and two nurseries, continues with online learning until April 3 but is fully ready to transition back to onsite learning once regulatory approval is received, according to Asmal Ahmed, CEO of Woodlem Education.
Safety-First Approach to Onsite Learning
“Our decision to move to onsite learning is based on a comprehensive risk assessment that prioritizes the safety of students and staff. From campus readiness and trained personnel to secure transport and real-time communication with parents, every aspect is carefully managed,” said Asmal Ahmed, CEO of Woodlem Education.
The group is fully prepared to respond to external threats, including missile or drone risks, through immediate indoor relocation, lockdown procedures, and clear communication channels.
“Should a sudden closure be necessary, parents will be notified promptly, and controlled dismissal procedures will ensure the safety of every child,” Ahmed added.
