UAE Ministry of Education dismisses social media rumours of distance learning extension to May 1
As social media speculation about a further extension of distance learning began to circulate among parents and school communities across the UAE, the Ministry of Education stepped in swiftly to set the record straight — urging the public not to rely on unverified sources for information about the country's academic calendar.
Ministry addresses misinformation directly
The Ministry of Education has denied social media claims that distance learning will be extended until May 1, 2026, confirming that no such decision has been issued. It said all updates related to the academic system will be communicated only through its official and verified platforms, stressing that current schedules remain unchanged. The ministry further described the circulating reports as "inaccurate" and reiterated that all decisions related to education will only be announced through official channels.
Where things currently stand
Distance learning is currently in place until April 17 across all educational institutions in the UAE for students as well as teaching and administrative staff. Authorities have added that the situation will be reviewed weekly, meaning the April 17 deadline could be adjusted depending on future developments.
How distance learning began
The ministry first mandated distance learning from March 2, following Iran's attacks on Gulf states, including the UAE. The measure was extended until Friday, March 6, before authorities announced an early spring break. Remote learning was then extended further after the spring break to prioritise the safety of the educational community amid the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict.
When schools across the UAE transitioned to online education this year, the shift was far smoother compared to the Covid pandemic days. To make it easier for families, the Sharjah government also announced flexible remote work for female employees who have children enrolled in schools or nurseries.
As authorities continue to closely monitor regional developments, families are reminded to look only to official ministry communications and verified school channels for any updates on the return to in-person learning.
Sources:
Gulf News — "UAE denies rumours of distance learning extension until May 1" by Aghaddir Ali (April 13, 2026). Read the full article.
Khaleej Times — "UAE denies 'inaccurate' reports of distance learning extension till May 1" by Poojaraj Maniyeri (April 13, 2026). Read the full article.
