Back to school in UAE: New campuses welcome students for 2026-27 academic year

For thousands of families across the UAE, August 31 marked the beginning of a new academic year, bringing a mix of excitement and nervousness. While some children experienced their first-ever day at school, others moved to new campuses, met new teachers or began their final school year before university.

The 2026–27 academic year is also expanding the UAE’s education landscape, with new schools welcoming their first groups of students. At the same time, established schools are reporting strong demand, with waiting lists in several year groups.

Queen Elizabeth’s School Opens in Dubai Sports City

In Dubai Sports City, Queen Elizabeth’s School officially opened its doors on Monday, welcoming more than 500 students and staff for its inaugural academic year.

Founding Principal Dan Clark described the opening as the beginning of an exciting journey. The school aims to combine academic excellence with character development and a strong sense of belonging.

Clark said the school’s ambition is to provide outstanding academic education while nurturing confident, capable and responsible young people.

The new school will draw on the culture and values associated with Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet, while providing students with opportunities beyond traditional classroom learning.

Its programme will include partnerships and activities covering sport, creative arts, innovation and entrepreneurship.

New Students Begin at Raffles World Academy Sharjah

The excitement of a fresh beginning was also felt in Sharjah, where Raffles World Academy Sharjah welcomed its founding students.

Principal Dr Armeena Tabassum said families were starting an important journey together, with the school focused on providing future-ready education and building a strong community.

She said the school aims to ensure that every child is known, valued and encouraged to thrive.

The opening year will also mark the beginning of the school’s efforts to establish its own culture and community from the ground up.

First Day Brings Excitement and Nerves for Parents

While some families entered brand-new campuses, others returned to established schools with a familiar mix of excitement and first-day nerves.

For Egyptian parent Nihal Hazem, the day was particularly emotional as her daughter Nelly started “big school” for the first time.

Hazem said her daughter was excited about attending a new school, although she remained unsure about how the first few days would unfold.

She planned to leave her daughter at school but said Nelly’s father would remain nearby as a backup if she became upset.

Established Schools See Strong Demand

Established schools across the UAE are also beginning the academic year with strong demand, alongside new teachers and students joining their communities.

At Repton Al Barsha, Principal Chandini Misra said the first day brought the school back to life after weeks of preparation.

She said the school is starting the year from a strong position, with waiting lists in several year groups and a mix of returning and new families.

The school is also welcoming a new group of teachers, including educators arriving from other UAE schools and overseas.

New Teachers Bring Fresh Experience

Misra highlighted the importance of combining experienced educators with new teaching talent.

The new teachers will join an established team with strong teacher retention, helping provide students with continuity and consistency while also introducing fresh ideas and experiences.

She said the school community benefits from having educators with diverse backgrounds working alongside its experienced staff.

A New Beginning for Students of Every Age

Despite the focus on enrolment numbers, waiting lists and new teachers, school leaders said the first day ultimately remains about the students.

From three-year-olds attending school for the first time to students entering their final year before university, the new academic year represents a significant milestone for children at every stage.

For both new and established schools, creating a strong sense of belonging remains a key priority as students and families begin another academic journey in the UAE.