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As dust and unstable weather affected parts of the UAE earlier this week, several schools across Dubai and Ajman temporarily suspended outdoor activities to protect students’ health. With air quality levels dipping below safe limits, schools swiftly adapted their routines, shifting physical education (PE), lunch breaks, and co-curricular programs indoors.

Schools respond to poor air quality alerts

On November 5, parents in several Dubai neighborhoods received notifications from their children’s schools informing them that all outdoor sessions- including breaks and sports - would be held indoors. The decisions came after the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecasted dusty and windy conditions that reduced visibility and worsened air quality.

According to the Emirati Air Quality Index (EAQI), levels in some areas crossed into the “unhealthy” range, prompting swift precautionary measures. Schools highlighted that such actions are now part of a growing safety culture, ensuring that students remain protected during environmental fluctuations.

How schools monitor and decide

Schools across the UAE closely follow official guidance from the NCM and Dubai Municipality when determining their response to worsening air quality.
Simon Jodrell, Principal of Jebel Ali School, explained that the process is guided by data and safety standards:

“The safety and wellbeing of our students always come first. When the Air Quality Index rises above 150, we take immediate steps to limit outdoor exposure. PE lessons and break times move indoors, and outdoor fixtures are rescheduled or cancelled.”

Dedicated medical and operations teams continuously monitor updates to make timely, informed decisions. “Our teachers creatively reimagine indoor spaces so that physical activity continues safely,” Jodrell added. “We keep parents informed through our regular communication channels, encouraging hydration and limited outdoor play at home.”

Schools adapt PE and co-curricular activities indoors

To ensure learning and activity continue uninterrupted, schools have adapted their programs to fit indoor settings.
Rahul Nair, Group Head of Operations at LEAMS Education, shared that their schools immediately activate clear protocols when air quality declines.

“All outdoor play is paused, and students stay in air-conditioned, clean indoor spaces,” he said. “Windows and doors are kept closed, AC filters are checked, and nurses monitor students with respiratory conditions such as asthma.”

Even on such days, PE lessons are redesigned as yoga, indoor circuits, or dance sessions. “We reimagine CCAs to focus on robotics, chess, art, or music - ensuring the fun never stops,” Nair added.

Parents are informed early in the day via school apps, SMS, or email, ensuring full transparency. “We always prioritize timely updates and encourage parents to help children manage health and hydration after school hours,” he said.

Long-term focus on health and infrastructure

In addition to short-term safety actions, schools are taking steps to improve indoor environments.
LEAMS Education has started exploring air filtration upgrades and additional indoor recreational spaces to enhance air quality and comfort. “Our goal is continuous improvement through sustainable practices that protect student wellbeing,” Nair said.

Precautions beyond Dubai

Schools outside Dubai are also taking similar measures.
At Woodlem American School in Ajman, Principal Marah Kaddoura confirmed that all decisions follow official AQI readings.

“Our top concern is always the wellbeing and safety of our students,” said Kaddoura. “Whenever outdoor sessions are called off due to air quality, our team makes sure students stay active and involved indoors. We make full use of our multipurpose hall to keep learning going in a safe and comfortable environment.”

A culture of care and preparedness

The swift response of UAE schools highlights a growing culture of care and environmental awareness. As weather patterns fluctuate and air quality varies across neighborhoods, institutions continue to put student wellbeing first - demonstrating that safety, communication, and adaptability remain at the heart of UAE’s education system.