1.27 million UAE students head back to school as families reset routines

DUBAI: More than 1.27 million students across the UAE are returning to classrooms today as over 1,180 schools reopen their doors for the new academic year.

For families, the first school morning marks a return to early starts, packed school bags and daily school runs following weeks of summer holidays. Some schools are staggering their return, with kindergarten children, new students and parents attending orientation sessions, while older students at some campuses return later.

However, this academic year brings more than a return to routine, with several changes to homework, digital-device use, Arabic-language assessments and student evaluation.

New Academic Year Brings Major Changes

Students are returning to schools with a number of significant changes in place.

Among the key developments are:

• No traditional homework for public-school students from kindergarten to Grade 2

• Tighter controls on digital devices for Grade 6 students in public schools

• Expanded Arabic-language assessments

• Changes to student evaluation and teaching approaches

• For parents, the first day is also about helping children adjust emotionally and practically after the long summer break.

Parents Focus on Routines and Reassurance

Neha Bhagwat, who works in a school's administrative department, said establishing a consistent morning routine is one of the best ways for families to stay organised.

She starts her morning around 30 minutes before her children wake up, giving herself some quiet time before preparing breakfast for the family.

This year brings an added emotional milestone as one of her sons enters Year 6 and takes on a leadership position as his primary school's house captain.

Bhagwat said both of her children were excited about returning to school and reconnecting with friends. However, her younger son was also slightly nervous about the responsibilities that come with his new role.

She said reassuring children that they do not need to have everything figured out from the first day can help them manage the transition.

Preparing Children for a Smooth Start

Bhagwat believes parents can make the transition easier by preparing children and organising practical details before school begins.

She encouraged families to establish earlier bedtimes, prepare uniforms and organise school bags and stationery in advance.

According to her, when parents appear organised and confident, children can also feel more secure and positive about starting the new academic year.

Students Adjust to Early Mornings

For younger students, the first day can bring a mix of reluctance and excitement.

Dubai mother Mona Haddad said her 10-year-old son found waking up difficult after the long summer break, but his mood quickly changed once he was dressed and ready for school.

He was particularly excited about meeting friends again and sharing stories about his holiday.

Haddad expects it will take several days for her son to fully adjust to the new routine but said he is looking forward to the academic year.

Older Students Face Greater Academic Pressure

For older students, the new school year can bring increased academic demands.

Year 11 student Oliver Wilson said returning to school felt more serious because of upcoming examinations.

Although waking up early after the summer break was difficult, he was happy to see his friends and return to a structured routine.

He acknowledged that the year would bring greater pressure to prepare for exams and stay on top of schoolwork.

Family Calendars Help Manage Busy Schedules

As the academic year progresses, families will need to keep track of school announcements, sports events, activities, non-uniform days, study sessions and examinations.

One solution recommended by parents is maintaining a family calendar in a visible location.

Moldovan expatriate Elena Rusu uses an academic-year calendar with dedicated sections for each family member. She records school notices as soon as they arrive, including activities, meal plans and examination dates.

She said the system helps the family stay organised as school commitments increase throughout the year.

Children May Experience Temporary Fatigue

Doctors have also advised parents to expect some tiredness as children adjust to earlier mornings and busier school days.

Dr Abin Vijayan, specialist paediatrician at Prime Medical Center, Burjuman branch, said mild fatigue is common during the first few days of a new academic year.

Changes in sleep patterns, increased concentration, social interaction, physical activity and schoolwork can temporarily leave children feeling more tired.

He said mild fatigue should generally improve within several days as children settle into their new routine.

Adequate Sleep Is Essential

Doctors stress that sufficient sleep should be a priority as students return to school.

Dr Mamata Bothra, specialist paediatrician and neonatologist at International Modern Hospital Dubai, said school-aged children generally need 9–12 hours of sleep, while teenagers require around 8–10 hours.

Insufficient sleep can appear as tiredness, irritability, hyperactivity, poor concentration or behavioural changes.

Parents are therefore encouraged to establish consistent bedtime routines and ensure children get enough rest to cope with academic and social demands.

Healthy Breakfast and Hydration Matter

Nutrition is another important part of helping children settle into the school routine.

Doctors recommend a balanced breakfast containing a variety of foods, including protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, while limiting excessive junk food and sugary drinks.

With UAE temperatures remaining high, hydration is particularly important.

Parents should pack a water bottle and encourage children to drink regularly throughout the day rather than waiting until they feel thirsty. Water should remain the main drink.

As more than 1.27 million students begin the new academic year, families across the UAE are settling back into school routines while adapting to new education policies and focusing on healthy, organised and positive starts.