Dubai extends remote learning period for private institutions until April 3; KHDA says on-site returns require approval | World News

The Dubai Education Authority has decided to continue remote learning in all private institutions and extended arrangements until early April as a precautionary measure. The move centers on student safety while providing institutions with limited flexibility to justify a return to in-person classes.The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has confirmed that all private educational institutions in the emirate of Dubai will continue to implement remote learning until Friday, April 3, 2026. The decision is consistent with wider announcements from the Education, Human Development and Communities Committee, reinforcing a coordinated approach across the department.In a statement shared on X, KHDA said all private institutions must continue remote learning during this period. The authorities stressed that the measure is aimed at ensuring the safety of students while maintaining the continuity of education and teaching in schools, colleges and other private learning institutions.At the same time, KHDA is leaving room for institutions that may be able to resume in-person learning. Any institution seeking to return to physical classrooms must submit a formal request to authorities. The request must clearly outline the specific circumstances behind the proposal and provide detailed justification for reopening.Each application will be assessed individually rather than going through a blanket approval process. KHDA said all such requests will be reviewed by the Ministry of Education, which will evaluate them in accordance with approved regulations and procedures.The authority has made it clear that the safety and wellbeing of students, staff and the wider community will be the primary consideration in any decision taken by the department. This means that even well-prepared institutions will only be allowed to reopen if they meet the required safety standards and can demonstrate minimal risk.The expansion of remote learning, coupled with a controlled approval process for any exceptions, reflects the cautious approach taken by Dubai’s education authorities in balancing continuity of learning with public health priorities.