Dubai’s iconic yellow school buses rolled back onto city streets this morning, signalling the end of the month-long winter break and the start of a new academic term for students across the UAE.
More than one million pupils nationwide are returning to classrooms today, according to education authorities, as public and private schools reopen following the winter holiday. The return marks a shift back to early mornings, uniforms, and lesson plans after weeks of rest, travel, and family time.
Outside school gates, the atmosphere was a mix of excitement and routine. Younger students clutched backpacks nearly as big as themselves, while older pupils reconnected with classmates, sharing stories from the break. Parents, meanwhile, navigated the familiar morning rush, with traffic picking up around school zones after a quieter month.
Schools across the UAE have said they are focusing on helping students ease back into academic routines during the first days of term. Teachers are expected to spend time revising previous material, setting expectations, and re-establishing classroom structure before fully diving into new coursework.
For many families, the return to school also means a return to carefully managed schedules, from bus pickups and extracurricular activities to homework routines. Transport authorities have reminded motorists to be cautious near schools, with reduced speed limits and increased patrols in place to ensure student safety during peak hours.
Education experts note that longer breaks can make the transition back to school challenging for some children, particularly younger students. Parents are encouraged to support the adjustment by maintaining consistent sleep schedules, preparing school materials in advance, and allowing time for children to talk about their feelings as they return to class.
As the new term begins, schools will be looking ahead to upcoming assessments, events, and curriculum milestones. For students, however, the immediate focus is simpler: settling back into familiar classrooms, reconnecting with friends, and getting back into the rhythm of school life after a month away.
