Schools throughout the UAE are enhancing their readiness plans and improving communication channels to keep parents well-informed about disruptions due to severe weather.
Whether it’s dense fog, heavy rain, or dust storms, these institutions prioritize student safety, clear updates, and prompt decision-making.
Authorities mandate that schools adhere to the Emergency Preparedness and Response Policy, which involves both proactive and reactive strategies. This includes vigilant monitoring of official weather alerts, aligning with education authority directives, and initiating structured communication protocols.
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Vigilance in Abu Dhabi
In Abu Dhabi, Shining Star International School has developed a comprehensive response system tailored to the unique weather conditions of the emirate.
Om Prakash Prasad, Operations Head, stated, “Considering our location in Abu Dhabi and the specific environmental conditions here, we remain particularly watchful during dense fog, heavy rain, or dust storms. Once an adverse weather alert is issued, our emergency communication plan is immediately activated, ensuring timely coordination with ADEK guidelines and instant updates to parents and staff via our digital platforms, along with adjustments to transport schedules to guarantee safe student travel.”
He noted that decisions are often made swiftly. “During dense fog or low visibility, buses are delayed until it is entirely safe to operate, and students are supervised indoors. For dust storms or high winds, all outdoor activities are ceased, and ventilation systems are managed to maintain healthy indoor air quality.”
The school’s strategy includes transport management, indoor supervision, and real-time communication with parents through the Salama app, SMS, emails, and a dedicated parent platform.
“Whether it’s a fog-induced bus delay, the suspension of outdoor activities during dust storms, or early dismissal due to heavy rain, parents receive precise instructions and real-time updates. This not only keeps families informed but also helps them plan safely and confidently, knowing their children’s safety is our top priority,” Prasad added.
Proactive Monitoring in Dubai
Across the Emirates, school leaders agree that the goal is to ensure parents are never caught off guard.
Clear, timely updates—via apps, emails, or direct calls in urgent situations—are vital to reassuring families that children remain safe amid unpredictable weather.
In Dubai, schools adopt a similar approach while collaborating closely with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), and Dubai Police.
Chitra Sharma, Principal of JSS Private School, mentioned that early monitoring of official forecasts allows them to act proactively. “This helps us anticipate adverse weather well in advance and implement safety measures proactively. When forecast conditions indicate potential risks—like heavy fog, rain, or dust storms—the principal, empowered by KHDA regulations, makes timely decisions.”
She added that measures could include declaring an online learning day, adjusting start times, or modifying bus schedules. “During school hours, if the weather unexpectedly worsens, we respond immediately: bus operations are adjusted under RTA oversight, outdoor activities are suspended, and students and staff stay in designated safe areas until conditions stabilize. Additionally, Maintenance & Facilities teams ensure campus safety by checking drainage, securing loose items, and maintaining safe ventilation during dust storms.”
Standardized Protocols Across School Groups
For some school groups, standardized policies ensure uniform responses across all campuses.
Noufal Ahmed, Founder and Managing Director of Woodlem Education, highlighted that their schools nationwide work closely with transport providers and education authorities.
“All our schools closely follow updates from the UAE National Centre of Meteorology, police advisories, and education authority circulars. A comprehensive weather emergency protocol is in place at all our schools, such as notifying parents of delayed starts during fog, ensuring safe indoor supervision during heavy rain or dust storms, and adjusting bus timings in coordination with transport providers.”
He added that staff are given clear roles for seamless execution. “Parents are instantly notified through SMS, email, the school app, and official social media.”
