Qatar will begin a phased return to in-person learning after schools shifted online at the start of regional escalations, with most students expected to be back in classrooms by March 29, 2026 

Dubai, Mar 23, 2026: Qatar’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education announced a phased return to in-person learning after schools shifted to online classes at the start of the regional escalations. 

Students will continue distance learning from March 24 to 26, 2026, as part of a transition period. Administrative and teaching staff are due to return to schools on March 25, 2026 to prepare for the resumption of classes. Nurseries will also resume regular operations on the same day. 

Students are expected back in classrooms on Sunday, March 29, 2026, as schools and kindergartens complete the phased reopening. The ministry said the gradual approach is intended to ensure a safe and stable transition back to in-person learning. 

During the transition period, schools will operate on reduced hours. The school day will run from 9am to 12:35pm for primary, preparatory and secondary levels, with five 35-minute lessons and two breaks for breakfast and prayer. Kindergartens will follow a more flexible schedule without fixed hours. 

Private schools and kindergartens will also continue remote learning during this period. They may follow government schedules or set their own, provided they meet the required curriculum hours, start the day at 9 am and the school day does not exceed five hours. 

Universities, colleges and private training centres will resume in-person learning earlier, starting March 24, 2026, in line with their approved schedules.