UAE Students Return to Class as Families Navigate New Academic Routines
Over 1.27 million students across the UAE have officially returned to classrooms this week, marking the end of the summer break and the start of a new academic year for more than 1,180 schools. This transition period is defined by a mix of excitement and the inevitable challenge of resetting household schedules. While students are eager to reconnect with friends, families are working hard to shift from relaxed summer rhythms back into structured morning routines. This year also brings notable policy shifts, including the removal of traditional homework for younger primary students and increased restrictions on digital devices for older pupils, prompting parents to focus heavily on preparation and emotional reassurance to help their children adjust.
To manage the busy year ahead, parents are emphasizing the importance of organization and physical well-being. Many are utilizing shared family calendars to track school events, sports, and exams to avoid last-minute stress. Meanwhile, healthcare professionals are advising parents to monitor their children for signs of "back-to-school fatigue," noting that it is normal for students to feel drained as they adapt to earlier wake-up times and increased mental demands. Doctors recommend prioritizing consistent sleep schedules—aiming for 8 to 12 hours depending on age—alongside balanced nutrition and consistent hydration to ensure that students remain energized and focused throughout the school day.