The framework will support learners in developing practical, personal, and social skills starting from the 2026–27 academic year.
Dubai: The emirate has introduced its first integrated life skills framework for learners, an education initiative designed to prepare children and young people for a rapidly evolving world by strengthening their practical, personal, and social skills.
The Knowledge and Human Development Authority announced the launch of “Skills for Life” under the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.
The framework will take effect from the 2026–27 academic year and will support learners across Dubai from pre-kindergarten through graduation and beyond. It is aligned with the objectives of the Dubai Education Strategy 2033 and the UAE’s National Charter for Education.
Launched during the Year of the Family, the initiative is designed to help learners develop the knowledge, habits, and skills needed to confidently navigate school, work, and everyday life. The authority said it places learners at the centre of the education system and reinforces the principle of lifelong learning.
The KHDA said the “Skills for Life” framework responds to the rapid pace of global change, especially as technology continues to transform how people live, learn, and work. It aims to build students’ confidence, adaptability, resilience, and sense of purpose, while preparing them to make the most of future opportunities.
The framework will be integrated across learning environments and curricula, and will complement Dubai’s quality assurance standards as well as its academic and career guidance policies. It is designed to deliver high-quality learning experiences and support students in making informed choices about their educational and career paths.
The initiative also reflects Dubai’s focus on strengthening collaboration between schools, teachers, parents, the business community, and wider society. These partnerships are expected to create a more supportive ecosystem for learners and help them select pathways aligned with their ambitions, abilities, and evolving job market needs.
“Skills for Life” defines clear learning outcomes and expectations for education providers, while also incorporating wellbeing indicators and quality assurance tools. It will be tailored to different age groups and learning stages to ensure effective implementation across the education system.
The new framework covers a broad range of life skills that will be embedded into school experiences. These include healthy lifestyles, personal hygiene, physical activity, and balanced habits that support students’ overall wellbeing.
It also focuses on nutrition and healthy eating, helping learners understand balanced diets and develop habits that promote long-term health and growth.
Another key area is managing daily life with independence and responsibility, including organisation, goal-setting, time management, and decision-making, along with financial and consumer awareness to help students handle resources and make informed choices.
Social development and relationship-building form an additional pillar, with students encouraged to build communication skills, empathy, teamwork, and the ability to form positive relationships with others.
The framework also aims to strengthen psychological resilience and self-empowerment by helping students build confidence, self-regulation, adaptability, and the ability to respond constructively to challenges.
In the digital domain, “Skills for Life” will guide learners to use technology and digital tools safely, responsibly, and effectively. It also promotes online critical thinking, digital responsibility, and sustainable behaviours aligned with Dubai’s long-term development goals.
The KHDA said the framework integrates several transformation initiatives under Dubai’s education strategy, including Future Astrolabe for academic and career guidance, Student City to enrich the learner experience, Skills for Tomorrow to continuously update future-ready skills, Learn Anywhere to enhance education quality across all stages, and Life Camps, which include winter programmes focused on life skills.
It will also encourage local and international partnerships to develop leadership skills in young people and strengthen recognised forms of non-formal learning beyond traditional academic settings.
