UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Inspires Over 1.2 Million Students as New Academic Year Begins

President Sheikh Mohamed hailed children as the nation's "true wealth" as more than 1.2 million pupils returned to classrooms for the start of the new academic year on Monday.

The UAE leader urged children to "make the most of every opportunity" and to embrace their learning journey with "optimism, ambition and determination". Sheikh Mohamed extended his congratulations to pupils, parents and teachers as they prepared for lessons after the summer break in an uplifting message on social media.

"With the start of the new academic year, I extend my congratulations to students, teachers, administrators, and parents, and wish them a successful year that continues to support our nation’s educational journey," Sheikh Mohamed said.

"Our children are our true wealth, and I encourage them to embark on the new school year with optimism, ambition, and determination, making the most of every opportunity to gain knowledge and life skills.

"I also encourage continued cooperation between families and schools to foster a passion for lifelong learning, equip students with the skills of the future, and reinforce a strong sense of identity and values."

More than 1,180 public and private schools across the UAE reopened their doors from Monday, welcoming more than 1.277 million pupils. The return to schools was met with hope and anticipation after the previous academic year faced significant disruption, owing to the Iran war. A number of new schools have opened across the Emirates in time for the start of term, highlighting the strength of a growing education landscape.