UAE schools to resume outdoor activities after conflict disruptions: KHDA update

Schools are preparing to gradually resume outdoor activities after a period of disruption caused by the recent Iran–Israel–US conflict, which had forced campuses to shift to distance learning and suspend all physical, outdoor engagement.

Although schools reopened last week, outdoor spaces including playgrounds and sports fields had remained closed as a precaution.

Physical education classes and all other outdoor activities were also put on hold during this transition period.

Now, a new communication from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) signals a shift back to normalcy. Schools have been informed that outdoor activities will soon resume, marking an important step in restoring routine school life.

Dr Ghadeer Abu-Shamat, Principal of Al Khaleej International School, confirmed the update, stating: “Yes, we received the communication from KHDA yesterday,” adding that preparations are underway for students to safely return to outdoor activities.

A GEMS representative also confirmed, "Starting today we’ll have the schedules updated aligned with the announcement."

Naveed Iqbal, Gems Metropole Principal and CEO shared, "GEMS Metropole School has had a very strong first week back, with systems and routines re-established quickly. As a result, we are well prepared to resume outdoor activities. This is a core part of our school experience, and as a GEMS Centre of Excellence for Sport, we are excited to see students back using our outstanding facilities and engaging fully in high-quality sporting programmes."

Private schools in Dubai have resumed outdoor activities, including Physical Education (PE) classes and school assemblies, Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) also confirmed to Gulf News.

The decision follows the resumption of in-person learning across UAE schools on April 20, after more than 40 days of distance education due to regional tensions linked to the US–Israel–Iran conflict. Schools opened with enhanced safety measures in place, including designated safe zones and updated emergency procedures in line with guidance from the KHDA. The schools also have additional internal procedures to strengthen preparedness across the campus, which includes shelter areas, along with comprehensive training for staff so students know exactly what to do before, during and after any emergency.

The phased reopening reflects a cautious but steady move toward fully reinstating on-campus experiences for students.