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UAE: Kids as young as 9 thrilled to learn AI as it becomes mandatory from next year
Starting from the 2025–2026 academic year, AI will be taught in public schools across all levels — from kindergarten through Grade 12
- PUBLISHED: Sun 4 May 2025, 7:02 PM
As the UAE prepares to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) as a mandatory subject in public schools starting next year, students are excited to embrace the technology as a valuable learning tool.
The initiative will see AI taught across all levels, from kindergarten through Grade 12, making the UAE one of the first countries globally to integrate AI into its educational curriculum.
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For students like Abdurrahman Almulla, a Grade 4 student in Sharjah, the introduction of AI is an exciting opportunity. He views the technology as a useful tool for collaborative learning.
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“I think AI may be helpful when we need to work on group projects,” he said. “It would help us research and go through many different topics quickly. It would give us more information and we would learn more than what is just in our books."
His father, Ali Al Mulla, echoed his excitement, highlighting the initiative’s alignment with the UAE’s forward-thinking goals. “The application of AI is one of the key principles of the ‘We the UAE 2031’ government vision,” he said. “The coming generations have to be aware of the benefits of AI and the risks of being exposed to malicious use of the technology. Educating children early is essential."
The introduction of AI into schools was formally announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, on Sunday via X.
Similarly, Grade 6 student Mariam Almidfa, a graduate of Sharjah’s Digital Safety Ambassador program, sees AI as a supportive learning partner. “I want AI to help me understand things better,” she said. “But I don’t want it to replace me or my teachers. I want it to be a smart helper that encourages me to learn, create, and dream even bigger.”
While students are eager to explore AI’s potential, some parents are voicing concerns about the early exposure of young children to technology. Umm Eisa, a mother of four children ranging from 4 to 12 years old, is cautious about introducing AI to younger students.
“While the introduction of AI to schools is welcomed for middle and high school, I don’t think it would be of any benefit to children in kindergarten or elementary schools.
"Children should not be over-exposed to technology during their early years. They need to focus on motor skills and social interaction. Many already get too much screen time at home, especially with working parents," she said.
Importance of transparency
Umm Eisa also pointed to international cases as cautionary examples. “Sweden recently decided to return to printed textbooks and reduce tech use in schools. I think the UAE should look at those studies as well."
She further noted that younger children are still developing their understanding of technology and may end up relying too heavily on AI, which could undermine their ability to engage with their peers and think critically as they grow.
Others, like Umm Rashid, was happy with the initiative but hoped it would be implemented mindfully. “I hope AI supports teachers rather than replace their human touch,” she said. “It should help children learn at their own pace, especially where they need extra help or can move ahead.”
She also emphasised the importance of transparency and safety. “Schools need to clearly explain how AI will be used and how they’ll protect children’s privacy and data. AI should be about personalized learning, creativity, and future-ready skills — not just improving test scores.”
