UAE Schools Welcome Pupils Back for the 2026-27 Academic Year with Excitement and New AI Curricula

School corridors across the UAE buzzed with excitement as pupils started the 2026-27 academic year on Monday, making way for new classrooms, teachers, and reunions with friends. At Muna British Academy on Saadiyat Island, the campus filled with renewed energy as parents, teachers, and children greeted one another. The school welcomed more than 1,300 pupils this year, up from 900 last year, and is now open to years eight and nine.

Principal Ian Pugh told The National: “We're thrilled to open our doors and welcome everybody.” He added that the first week features pastoral activities designed around joy, friendship, care, and happiness before transitioning into serious learning.

Maths teacher James Turner explained that pupils took part in a scavenger hunt to explore new learning areas and participate in team-building sports activities. Parents shared that their children had been counting down the days to return. Dr Mariam AlMansoori, an Emirati mother, stated that her four children—Maha, Mai, Amer, and Mohammed—were excited to be back. Nader Sadek, whose daughter Maribella attends the school, expressed optimism about the new academic year despite the hectic first day.

New pupil Jason, 10, and Aishani Kataru, 12, shared their excitement about making friends, meeting new teachers, and focusing academically. Yara and Mariah, both 12, felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as they started the new year with goals to stay focused in class.

Some UAE schools opted for a staggered start. Brighton College Abu Dhabi welcomed new pupils for induction, which head teacher Barney Durrant described as a positive beginning filled with laughter, smiles, and community strength.

Addressing potential challenges, Principal Ian Pugh noted that the school remains prepared for possible disruption linked to the Iran war, with emergency protocols rehearsed last year remaining in place. Mr Turner praised pupils' resilience, while Dr AlMansoori emphasized the importance of flexibility and keeping a "Plan B" in mind.

Additionally, Muna British Academy has integrated artificial-intelligence literacy into its curriculum following the Ministry of Education's new manual. Mr Turner noted that teachers now deliver AI-related content across subjects, alongside computer science, robotics, and coding. Mr Sadek expressed enthusiasm for the new AI rules, highlighting their importance for future career opportunities.