UAE to Announce School Learning Model on May 10 After Security-Related Remote Shift

The UAE Ministry of Education will announce on May 10 whether schools, universities, and nurseries will return to in-person classes or continue remote learning, after suspending physical instruction from May 5 to May 8 due to regional security threats. The decision follows a nationwide safety assessment conducted with relevant authorities after the interception of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones launched from Iran on May 4.

The UAE's air defence systems successfully engaged 12 ballistic missiles, three cruise missiles, and four drones, prompting emergency alerts and the immediate shift to distance learning across all educational institutions. The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research said updated directives for universities will be issued on Sunday evening, while Dubai’s KHDA will release separate guidance for private schools.

Authorities confirmed that all examinations and international assessments will proceed in person as scheduled, despite the ongoing review of the broader learning model. The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) required schools to maintain full academic standards during remote instruction, including live lessons, daily attendance, and student wellbeing checks.

The UAE’s education system has demonstrated rapid adaptability between online and in-person learning since the pandemic, with schools able to transition within hours. Hybrid models remain in place at institutions including Middlesex University Dubai and the American University of Sharjah.

The final decision, expected to affect millions of students nationwide, will be based on ongoing security evaluations, with authorities emphasizing that student safety and uninterrupted education remain top priorities. The Ministry of Education will issue official guidance by May 10, after which institutions will implement the approved learning model.