Cable theft forces 51 schools in Riyadh to shift temporarily to remote learning

Dubai: A large-scale cable theft disrupted electricity supply to dozens of schools in Riyadh, prompting authorities to move more than 50 institutions to remote learning in order to ensure educational continuity.

The General Directorate of Education in Riyadh confirmed on Saturday that 51 schools will conduct classes through the online platform “Madrasti” from Sunday, 23 Safar 1447 AH (August 17, 2025) until Thursday, 27 Safar (August 21)

Students are expected to return to in-person learning once repair crews complete urgent maintenance and restore service to the affected buildings.

According to media reports, coordination is underway with relevant authorities to address the incident quickly and return the schools to normal operations “at the earliest possible time.” 

In a separate announcement, the Riyadh education department also released the official school day schedule for the 1447–1448 academic year. 

The new timetable reflects seasonal shifts and cultural considerations, including Ramadan.

Teachers are required to report back on Sunday, 23 Safar (August 17), while students are scheduled to return to classrooms on Sunday, 1 Rabi Al Awwal (August 24).