UAE, Dubai: Remote learning resumes nationwide, reshaping family routines as parents balance work demands and children’s virtual schooling responsibilities at home
Schools across the UAE have resumed the new academic term online, prompting families to once again adapt to a lifestyle where home, work, and education overlap.
Dining tables have turned into workstations, bedrooms into study zones, and living rooms into shared offices. For many parents, the transition has meant balancing professional obligations while ensuring their children remain focused during virtual lessons.
International curriculum schools began their third term remotely, following directives issued for both public and private institutions. Authorities extended distance learning for all students until April 3, citing safety concerns amid ongoing regional developments.
The move follows an earlier shift to online education on March 2, before students went on spring break until March 22. Now, with classes back in session, households are once again adjusting to structured yet demanding routines.
For working parents, the return to remote learning has required significant flexibility. Many are attending meetings from unconventional spaces within their homes while simultaneously monitoring their children’s progress.
Lucy Grant, a resident of Springs, described how the first day began with optimism but quickly revealed the challenges of supervising independent learning.
“The morning started off well, with live sessions keeping my son engaged,” she said. “Later, I assumed he was completing his assignments while I worked downstairs.”
However, a sudden noise prompted her to check on him, only to find him distracted with a dartboard instead of his tasks.
Despite the distraction, Grant noted that her son had completed part of his work, highlighting how children often balance productivity with short breaks, sometimes stretching boundaries.
Her experience reflects a broader reality across UAE households, where parents must frequently step in between meetings to keep children on track.
The situation becomes more complex in larger families. Nighat Malik, a mother of four daughters, explained how her home now operates like multiple classrooms simultaneously.
“All four of them are doing distance learning, and it has completely changed our daily routine,” she said.
Malik explained that her youngest daughter requires constant supervision, particularly during live sessions, where even basic functions like muting and unmuting can be challenging.
“I have to sit with her throughout her classes, which means pausing everything else, including household chores,” she added.
Each of her children follows a different schedule, with classes starting at varying times. The older daughters attend university sessions, adding to the complexity.
“From morning to afternoon, the house feels like several classrooms running at once,” Malik said. “It’s overwhelming trying to manage everyone’s needs at the same time.”
The need for multiple devices and quiet spaces has also added pressure on families. Parents often find themselves moving between rooms to accommodate work calls while ensuring children have uninterrupted access to lessons.
In some cases, even kitchens have become temporary offices, reflecting the extent to which households are being reconfigured.
Schools, however, report that the transition has been largely smooth, despite minor challenges typical of the first day.
Anita Stewart, Principal of Dubai Schools Al Barsha, said most students successfully logged into their classes and connected with teachers.
“We have had a positive start overall, with the vast majority of students joining their sessions,” she said.
She acknowledged that some families faced practical and emotional adjustments, particularly related to device availability and managing routines.
“These challenges are being addressed quickly, with direct support provided to families, including loan devices where necessary,” she added.
To maintain student engagement and reduce screen fatigue, schools are implementing structured schedules that combine live lessons with independent activities.
Regular breaks and creative tasks are also being introduced to ensure students remain motivated while avoiding excessive screen time.
Educators are also receiving support as they adapt to the demands of virtual teaching. Schools have prioritised communication and collaboration among staff to address challenges efficiently.
“Regular check-ins and sharing best practices are helping teachers respond quickly to any issues,” Stewart noted.
In addition to supporting students and teachers, institutions are enhancing communication with parents.
Many schools have introduced dedicated online portals that centralise essential information, including schedules, attendance policies, and technical support.
Ian Wallace, Director of Education at Cognita Middle East, emphasised the importance of clarity and consistency during this period.
“Our approach ensures that students continue to benefit from structured routines and high-quality teaching,” he said.
He added that parent portals are designed to provide practical guidance, helping families feel supported throughout the online learning experience.
The shift back to remote education highlights the ongoing adaptability of UAE families and schools in the face of changing circumstances.
While technology enables continuity in education, it also underscores the challenges of maintaining balance within households.
For parents, the experience is a constant juggling act—managing deadlines, supervising lessons, and creating an environment conducive to both work and learning.
For students, particularly younger ones, the transition requires renewed discipline and adjustment after time away from structured routines.
As the online term continues, families and educators alike are expected to refine their approaches, finding ways to improve efficiency and reduce stress.
Despite the challenges, many acknowledge that the experience has also fostered resilience, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the role families play in education.
With uncertainty still shaping the educational landscape, the ability to adapt remains essential for both schools and households across the UAE.