Dubai private schools resume on-site learning from April 20

Dubai's private education sector is resuming on-site learning effective Monday, April 20, 2026, across nearly 600 schools, early childhood centres, and higher education institutions, in full compliance with health and safety protocols. More than 200 early childhood centres have already resumed on-site learning from April 16. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has conducted comprehensive readiness assessments and delivered mandatory staff training on safety protocols, operational procedures, and emergency preparedness. Institutions are required to cascade this training internally and ensure all staff are fully prepared ahead of reopening. KHDA will conduct targeted field visits to verify compliance before granting final approvals and to monitor implementation after reopening. During the first week of in-person learning, institutions will deliver age-appropriate sessions focusing on UAE values, wellbeing, and safety awareness. Institutions have flexibility to adopt either full on-site learning or a phased return by grade level, with distance learning options remaining available for students unable to attend on-site.