The UAE has extended distance learning for two weeks after the spring break, covering all nurseries, schools, and higher education institutions. For hundreds of families and teachers currently overseas on vacation, the pressing question is clear: do we need to come back?
School leaders say the short answer is no — not while distance learning is in place. But every school is handling it slightly differently. Here is what they are saying.
What Did the UAE Announce About Distance Learning?
On Tuesday, March 17, education authorities confirmed distance learning will continue for two weeks after the spring break ends on March 22. This follows an earlier decision to move the entire education sector online from March 2 — when Iranian attacks began — and an early spring break starting March 9.
The timeline means UAE students have been out of physical classrooms since early March, with online learning expected to run until at least early April. Authorities will conduct weekly reviews and communicate updates through official school channels.
Can Students Attend Online Classes From Abroad?
Yes. Schools across the UAE are prepared for students to participate in distance learning from wherever they are.
Lisa Johnson, Principal of American Academy for Girls in Al Mizhar, confirmed: “At this stage, we anticipate some variation in return timelines, particularly for families who are currently abroad. A small number of families may delay returning depending on travel conditions and personal circumstances.”
She added that this has minimal operational impact: “Our distance learning model is designed to support students across different time zones and locations.”
Natalia Svetenok, Principal of Woodlem British School Ajman, was equally direct: “Whilst some may be currently abroad due to Spring Break, it is understood that some may decide to extend this period, and systems are already in place to ensure a seamless and uninterrupted move into distance learning. Currently, there is no need for students and teachers to return to the UAE while distance learning is in place.”
Simon Crane, Headmaster of Brighton College Dubai, said flexibility exists for pupils and staff to engage fully with the programme remotely — though a return would be expected once in-person schooling resumes.
For parents concerned about attendance records, approved distance learning periods count as normal school days. Online participation, engagement, and assessments continue as standard.
Do Teachers Need to Return to the UAE?
It depends on the school. Matt James, Vice Principal at GEMS Wellington Academy-Silicon Oasis, said staff have been encouraged to return for the remote learning period. “However, due to the unprecedented times, we are considering each situation as individual cases and are conscious of each individual’s wellbeing needs.”
Woodlem British School Ajman takes a different approach — teachers abroad are not required to return while distance learning continues.
Brighton College Dubai offers flexibility for staff to engage remotely, with a return expected once classrooms reopen.
For teachers navigating their employment obligations, the key message is to communicate directly with your school leadership about your situation.
How Are Schools Managing Online Learning?
Schools say their digital infrastructure is ready. The UAE’s education sector built significant distance learning capability during the 2020-2021 pandemic period, and those systems remain active.
During the online period:
- Students follow their regular timetables
- Attendance and engagement are tracked as normal
- Academic progress and assessments remain on track
- School teams share detailed schedules and access instructions directly with families
Matt James noted that GEMS WSO has “well-established digital platforms, experienced teachers, and structured schedules in place.”
The 2025-2026 school calendar originally scheduled the spring break from March 16-29, with classes resuming March 30. The extension of distance learning effectively pushes in-person return to mid-April at the earliest, subject to weekly review.
What About Student Wellbeing During Extended Online Learning?
Schools are placing equal weight on pastoral care alongside academics.
GEMS Wellington Academy-Silicon Oasis has hosted online sessions focused on helping children stay calm during the current situation.
American Academy for Girls uses a digital platform called YouHQ for daily wellbeing check-ins from both students and staff.
Brighton College Dubai has focused on keeping pupils “connected to their teachers and peers” throughout the remote period.
Fortes Education (Sunmarke School and Regent International School) confirmed their pastoral teams have maintained direct contact with families. Dr Neil Hopkin, Director of Education, said: “Updated guidelines have been shared with parents at every stage, and we remain in close coordination with KHDA.”
For parents managing children’s stress during the conflict, maintaining routine and limiting news exposure are the most effective strategies — something mental health experts in the UAE have reinforced.
When Will In-Person Classes Resume?
No confirmed date yet. Dr Hopkin captured the sentiment shared by all school leaders: “School is where children thrive, and our doors will be open the moment it is safe to do so.”
Simon Crane summed up the collective position: “Whilst we remain hopeful of a return to in-person schooling in due course, we are planning carefully for all eventualities.”
The two-week extension takes distance learning through to approximately April 5-6. However, authorities are conducting weekly reviews, so the timeline could be shortened or extended based on the security situation.
Key Takeaway
Students and teachers currently abroad do not need to return to the UAE during the distance learning period — most schools confirm full remote participation is supported across time zones. Distance learning continues for two weeks after spring break, with weekly reviews by authorities. Schools are using established digital platforms with regular timetables, tracked attendance, and ongoing assessments. A return to the UAE will be expected once in-person classes resume. Schools are prioritising student wellbeing alongside academics through dedicated pastoral programmes.
FAQ
Do students abroad need to fly back to the UAE for distance learning?
No. Schools confirm that students can participate fully in distance learning from abroad. Systems are designed to support learners across different time zones and locations. A return will be expected once in-person schooling resumes.
Do teachers need to return to the UAE?
This varies by school. Some schools encourage staff to return, while others allow teachers to continue remotely for the duration of distance learning. Teachers should communicate directly with their school leadership about their individual circumstances.
Will online attendance count toward school records?
Yes. Approved distance learning periods are treated as normal school days under UAE attendance guidelines. Students are expected to attend online classes, engage in lessons, and complete assessments as normal.
When will schools reopen for in-person classes?
No confirmed date. The current extension runs approximately two weeks after the spring break (ending around April 5-6). Authorities are conducting weekly reviews. Schools will communicate updates through official channels.
How are schools supporting student wellbeing during online learning?
Schools are running dedicated pastoral programmes including online calm sessions (GEMS WSO), daily digital wellbeing check-ins (AAG via YouHQ), and maintained peer-teacher connections (Brighton College). Fortes Education has kept pastoral teams in direct contact with families throughout.
What should parents do to prepare for extended distance learning?
Confirm your school’s specific schedule and platform access details. Set up a quiet study space at home. Maintain your child’s regular daily routine. Limit exposure to news coverage. Contact your school’s pastoral team if your child is showing signs of stress or disengagement.
Further Reading
- UAE 2025-2026 School Calendar: Key Dates for Students & Parents
- Dubai School Calendar 2025-2026: Key Dates for Private Schools
- New UAE Student Attendance Rules 2025-2026: What Parents Need to Know
- UAE Announces New Friday School Hours After Prayer Time Change
- Dubai’s $28.5M Mental Wealth Framework: Pioneering Urban Well-being
- UAE Public Holidays 2026: 12 Days Off & Long Weekend Guide
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