UAE students return to school for 2026-27 academic year

More than 1.27 million students are returning to over 1,180 public and private schools across the United Arab Emirates for the 2026-2027 academic year. To manage the transition and reduce congestion, the Ministry of Education has implemented a phased four-day return from August 31 to September 3, with full timetables resuming on September 4.

Key educational reforms for this year include a no-homework policy for students in kindergarten through grade 2, tighter digital device controls for grade 6 students in public schools, and expanded Arabic-language assessments. The Ministry has also prepared for the scale of the return by opening 11 new schools, deploying 5,810 buses, and distributing 8 million textbooks.

To support families, federal employees may utilize flexible working hours for up to three hours on the first day, with extended flexibility for those with nursery or kindergarten-aged children. Additionally, banks in the country are offering zero-interest installment plans and cashback deals to assist with tuition payments. UAE leaders, including President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, have issued messages of encouragement to students and teachers to foster ambition and national values.