Qatar moves towards a full return to classrooms, while Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain continue with distance learning and the UAE allows institutions flexibility while maintaining remote classes at the start of the term 

Dubai, Mar 26, 2026: As remote learning continues alongside carefully staged returns and requests for in-person learning, Gulf countries are adopting varied strategies to sustain education delivery. Across much of the GCC, institutions had initially transitioned to online learning in response to recent regional escalations. 

While Qatar is preparing for a full return to in-person learning, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain are maintaining distance education measures. In the UAE, institutions can request a return to in-person learning based on operational needs, with distance learning continuing for the first two weeks of the third term from March 23. The decisions have been shaped by broader precautionary measures, weather disruptions and technical readiness. 

UAE extends distance learning; opens door for flexible classroom return 

The UAE has allowed private schools, nurseries and universities to apply for a return to in-person learning based on operational needs, while continuing distance learning for the first two weeks of the third term from March 23, 2026. 

The Education, Human Development and Community Development Council announced a two-week continuation of remote learning for all students, teachers and administrative staff in nurseries, schools and higher education institutions. Officials said the measure is designed to ensure continuity while prioritising safety. The situation will be reviewed weekly. 

Taaleem and GEMS Education, two of the country’s largest school operators, and Leams Education Group were among the first private school groups to submit applications to reopen the campuses, following the announcement. 

Qatar gears up for full classroom return 

Qatar has announced a phased return to in-person learning. The gradual resumption of in-person classes started on March 24, 2026, with full attendance in schools and kindergartens scheduled for March 29, 2026. 

In the lead-up to full reopening, schools are operating under a hybrid structure. Students continued distance learning from March 24 to 26, 2026, while administrative and teaching staff returned to campuses starting March 25, 2026 to prepare for students’ arrival. 

Higher education institutions and private training centres have already resumed in-person learning as of March 24, 2026, operating according to their approved schedules. 

Oman moves to remote learning amid weather disruptions 

Oman has temporarily shifted entirely to distance learning due to adverse weather conditions affecting several parts of the country. 

The Ministry of Education announced that all public and private schools, universities, and colleges, except those in Dhofar and Al Wusta, will transition to online learning from March 24 to March 26. 

The decision was taken as a precautionary measure in response to a low-pressure weather system impacting multiple regions. Authorities said the move aims to ensure student safety while maintaining continuity in education. 

Officials noted that e-learning platforms have been fully activated to support the transition, minimising disruption to academic schedules.  

Kuwait extends online learning  

Kuwait has extended online learning for all public and private schools and universities, starting March 24, 2026. School administrations and staff are also operating remotely to support academic and supervisory functions. 

The Ministry of Education has announced a series of measures including delivery of second-semester textbooks directly to students’ homes nationwide and remote teacher training programmes. 

Authorities are additionally studying contingency plans for final exams to ensure student safety and fairness in assessment if current conditions persist. 

Bahrain continues online learning 

Bahrain, meanwhile, continues with distance learning, with no new announcements indicating a shift back to in-person classes. The Ministry of Education had earlier, on February 28, directed all educational institutions to transition to remote learning as a precautionary measure, stating that it would remain in place until further notice to ensure the safety of students and faculty.