Everything You Need to Know About Remote Learning, IB/CBSE Updates, and Transport Refunds.
Dubai: UAE Extends Distance Learning Amid Regional Tensions
Amid ongoing regional tensions affecting daily life, the Ministry of Education (MOE) UAE has extended distance learning for all schools and nurseries until April 17, 2026.
The decision prioritizes student safety and comes alongside other key updates for families, including the cancellation of major final examinations by leading boards and the suspension or refund of transport fees at an increasing number of schools.
1. Distance Learning Extended
All nurseries, kindergartens, and schools—both public and private—will continue distance learning until Friday, April 17, 2026.
The Ministry of Education (MOE UAE) said the extension prioritizes the safety and well-being of students, teachers, and administrative staff. Remote learning initially began on March 2 and was extended further when Term 3 started on March 23, following a one-week advancement of the spring break due to regional tensions.
The April 17 date is provisional; authorities will review conditions weekly and may adjust the schedule as needed.
2. IB Exams Cancelled
Grade 12 students in the UAE enrolled in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and Career-related Programme (CP) will not take their May 2026 examinations.
The International Baccalaureate Organisation has communicated this directly to schools, and official circulars have been shared with students. Results will be awarded using a special contingency framework in place of the cancelled exams.
3. CBSE Class 12: Alternative Path to Results
CBSE Class 12 students in the UAE will also follow an alternative assessment approach, ensuring results are issued despite the disruption to standard examinations.
CBSE Class 12: Alternative Assessment Scheme
India’s Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has implemented an alternative assessment scheme for Class 12 students in several West Asian countries, including the UAE, after board exams scheduled between March 16 and April 10 were cancelled.
Students who had already completed their exams will be evaluated based on actual performance. For subjects without a conducted exam, final grades will be determined using practical exams, project work, internal assessments, and any completed theory components.
4. Higher Education Distance Learning Extended — With One Exception
Higher Education Distance Learning Extended — With One Exception
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research UAE has extended remote learning at universities until April 17. The exception applies to priority programs that require physical attendance, which may resume under strict safety protocols, as outlined in a recent ministry circular. A gradual return for such programs began on March 30.
5. School Transport Fees Suspended or Refunded
Several UAE school groups are now suspending or refunding transport fees during the distance-learning period.
School Transport Services (STS) UAE, which provides buses for GEMS Education and other school groups, confirmed a pro-rata adjustment on April transport fees.
Parents can opt to receive the adjusted transport fee either as a credit toward future payments or as a direct refund. Families who have prepaid for a full term or year will have the adjustments carried forward, while students in their final year of school will receive any remaining balance as a cash refund.
