No Homework for Younger UAE Students, Fewer Classroom Screens Up to Grade 6
Since the 2026-27 school year began on 31 August, students from Kindergarten to Grade 2 in public schools and private schools managed by the Ministry of Education no longer get homework. Nightly worksheets are replaced by daily home reading that builds early literacy, language and thinking skills. If your child’s private school is not managed by the ministry, check its circular for its own policy.
| Grades | What changed |
|---|---|
| Kindergarten to Grade 2 | No homework. Daily home reading instead |
| Kindergarten to Grade 4 | No classroom devices, except lessons that teach digital skills (existing rule) |
| Grade 6 | Classroom screen use cut in Arabic, English, Mathematics and Science |
Why the ministry made the change
The screen cuts follow a ministry study of 2,500 students across nine public schools, which compared classes using digital tools with classes using books, notebooks and pen and paper. Students on the borderline, those most in need of help closing learning gaps, nearly doubled their attainment in device-free classes, and the ministry also reported calmer classrooms and stronger friendships. Devices stay in computer science and AI lessons.
Other 2026-27 changes under the National Education Charter
- A 50-50 assessment model for Group A subjects in Grades 9 to 12, combining centralised and school-based tests.
- A Project-Based Learning model launching in Grade 7.
