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UAE in-person learning: Dubai's early childhood centres to re-open from April 16
This announcement comes after authorities announced that nurseries across the UAE will begin a phased return to in-person learning starting this week
- PUBLISHED: Tue 14 Apr 2026, 8:53 PM UPDATED: Wed 15 Apr 2026, 1:38 PM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog for the latest regional developments with the US-Israel-Iran ceasefire now in effect.]
Private early childhood centres in Dubai are set to gradually return to on-site learning starting Thursday (April 16), as announced by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). Centres located on government premises and in commercial buildings will reopen,, subject to KHDA's approval, in line with comprehensive safety regulations and procedures.
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Other nurseries will be permitted to continue operating through approved home-based childcare services, in line with existing regulations and procedures designed to ensure continuity of care for young children.
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UAE in-person learning
The UAE's Education, Human Resources, and Community Development Council on Tuesday announced their readiness for in-person learning.
And KHDA's announcement comes after the Federal education body said that nurseries across the UAE will begin a phased return to in-person learning starting this week. The authority said the phased approach is part of broader efforts to ensure stability across the education sector while prioritising the safety of students, families, and staff.
This is a move aimed at restoring early childhood education services while maintaining strict safety and operational readiness standards after classes were disrupted and moved to distance learning due to the regional conflict.
Safety measures as UAE schools reopen
To support the transition, authorities are also rolling out comprehensive preparedness programmes across nurseries, schools, and universities. These include staff training initiatives and operational readiness checks aligned with official safety decisions.
Field evaluation visits will also be carried out by education regulators and relevant ministries to assess institutional readiness on the ground.
Additionally, clear guidance frameworks are being developed to help institutions transition smoothly between in-person and remote learning modes when required, ensuring flexibility and continuity in the education system amid evolving circumstances.
Why did schools move to online learning?
Schools moved to online learning as a precaution amid regional security concerns tied to the conflict. Since then, authorities have extended remote classes in stages while reviewing the situation.
Distance learning was first introduced on March 2, following Iran’s attacks on the UAE and other Gulf countries. The arrangement was initially set to run until March 6 before officials brought forward the spring break.
Remote learning was later extended beyond the break as authorities prioritised the safety of students, staff, and the wider education community during the US-Israel-Iran conflict, which remains under a fragile ceasefire.
(With inputs from Nandini Sircar)
