UAE universities gradually reopen for practical courses: What you need to know

From Monday, a cautious, phased return will see select groups of students step back into labs, clinics and workshops, where learning cannot happen behind a screen

These include courses involving clinical practice, laboratory work, field applications and in-person examinations.

For many students, particularly those in medicine, engineering and applied sciences, the shift marks a critical step in keeping their academic progress on track.

A circular sent to universities outlines 14 priority disciplines for the phased return, spanning health sciences, IT, architecture and psychology.

Even as campuses reopen their doors, the message from university leaders is clear, that caution comes first.

‘Learning outcomes require presence’

At the American University of Ras Al Khaimah, preparations have focused on ensuring that only essential in-person learning resumes.

Explaining the need for physical return in some disciplines, Prof. Bassam Alameddine said these programmes depend heavily on practical engagement.

“In alignment with the Ministry of Education’s directive, the phased return primarily applies to academic programmes that require physical presence… This includes laboratory-based courses, equipment-intensive modules, and senior design or capstone projects,” he said.

He noted that such elements — particularly in engineering and applied sciences — “cannot be fully replicated in a virtual environment”, underlining why limited on-campus learning has become necessary.

To support the transition, the university has set up an emergency response team and strengthened safety protocols. The return, Alameddine emphasised, will be tightly controlled.

“The return to campus will be carefully controlled and phased, limited only to students enrolled in courses with critical in-person requirements… Strict safety measures, capacity control mechanisms, and operational readiness will be maintained throughout.”

For the majority of students, however, learning will continue online — a hybrid model designed to minimise disruption while ensuring flexibility.

Safety nets and flexibility remain key

Across institutions, contingency planning has become central to decision-making, with universities prepared to pivot if conditions change.

Alameddine stressed that adaptability remains built into the system. “The university remains fully prepared to adapt its operations if conditions change… practical sessions will be rescheduled to ensure that students can complete their hands-on learning at a more appropriate time,” he said, adding that timelines will remain flexible.

At Gulf Medical University, the focus is similarly on programmes where real-world interaction is essential.

Prof. Manda Venkatramana explained that priority has been given to disciplines such as Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing and Physiotherapy — areas where students must engage directly with patients or clinical simulations.

“These are areas where direct patient interaction, laboratory work, and simulation-based training are essential and cannot be fully replicated through virtual platforms,” he said.

To manage the return, the university has introduced staggered schedules, hybrid teaching models and strict safety measures. Facilities like simulation centres are being used in a controlled manner, while digital platforms continue to support those studying remotely.

Venkatramana added that student wellbeing remains a priority during the transition. “We have also introduced a dedicated student support hotline to ensure quick assistance for any academic or administrative concerns during this transition. Students can reach us directly via phone or WhatsApp at +971561775555, allowing us to stay closely connected and responsive at all times.”

© Khaleej Times