GEMS Education has outlined important timelines and what families can expect as students start online classes on March 23, following an early spring break.
Parents of students in schools across the UAE have been informed about how the latest distance learning directive will be implemented, with timelines differing by curriculum and emirate.
In a communication to families, GEMS Education detailed a phased transition to online learning in line with guidance from the education authorities.
For most international curriculum schools, online classes will resume on Monday, March 23, immediately after the spring break.
Timelines differ for Indian curriculum schools:
- Schools under the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) and the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) will transition to online learning from Monday, March 30, until April 6.
- In Dubai, schools regulated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) will start their new academic year on April 6.
Across all GEMS schools, in-person classes are expected to resume from April 6, “in line with guidance from education and regulatory authorities,” according to the circular.
The announcement comes as schools across the UAE prepare to begin the third academic term under temporary distance learning measures, introduced to ensure student safety while maintaining educational continuity. Classes initially moved online on Monday, March 2, following Iranian attacks on Gulf states, with authorities subsequently announcing an early spring break until March 22.
What it means for students
Students will continue lessons online according to their regular timetables, with attendance and engagement expected as usual. Academic progress and assessments will continue without disruption, with structured schedules maintained throughout the remote learning period.
Individual schools will share detailed timetables and access instructions directly with parents. GEMS Education confirmed it has systems in place to ensure a smooth transition, including digital platforms and trained teaching staff.
The group also noted that differing timelines across curricula and emirates may require additional planning for families, especially those with children in multiple school systems.
