UAE parents told how schools will roll out distance learning; dates vary by curriculum

GEMS Education has detailed key timelines and what families can expect as students begin classes online from March 23 following an early spring break

Parents of students in schools across the UAE have been notified of how the latest distance learning directive will be implemented in practice, with timelines varying by curriculum and emirate.

In a communication to families, GEMS Education outlined a phased transition to online learning following guidance from education authorities.

For most international curriculum schools, online classes will resume from Monday, March 23, immediately after the spring break ends.

However, timelines differ for Indian curriculum schools:

Institutions under the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) and Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) will shift to online learning from Monday, March 30, until April 6.

In Dubai, schools regulated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) will begin their new academic year on April 6.

Across all GEMS schools, physical classes are expected to resume from April 6, “in line with guidance from education and regulatory authorities”, the circular states.

The move comes as schools across the UAE prepare to begin the third academic term under temporary distance learning measures announced by authorities to ensure student safety while maintaining continuity in education. Classes had initially shifted online from Monday, March 2, following Iran’s attacks on Gulf states, after which authorities announced an early spring break until March 22.

What it means for students

Students will continue their lessons online following their regular timetables, with attendance and engagement expected as normal.

Academic progress and assessments will also continue without disruption, with schools maintaining structured schedules during the remote learning period.

Detailed timetables and access instructions will be shared directly with parents by individual schools.

GEMS said it has systems in place to ensure a smooth transition, including digital platforms and trained teaching staff.

The group also acknowledged that differing timelines across curricula and emirates may require additional planning for families, particularly those with children in different school systems.