UAE Ministry of Education Implements No-Homework Policy for Early Grades and New Assessment Frameworks

This reform reflects a significant shift in educational philosophy, prioritizing skill-based learning over traditional homework.

• UAE Ministry of Education announced a no-homework policy for kindergarten through Grade 2 students on August 26, 2026.
• New examination frameworks will be implemented for select grades, emphasizing a balanced assessment approach.
• Screen-free instruction will be mandated for Grade 6 core subjects, promoting traditional learning methods.

• Shift from rote learning: The UAE is moving away from theoretical education towards skill-based and applied learning, as outlined in the National Education Charter.
• Previous policies: Earlier reforms had already limited device use in early grades, indicating a trend towards reducing screen time in education.
• National impact: The changes will affect approximately 1.277 million students enrolled in 1,180 public schools across the UAE.

On August 26, 2026, Minister Sarah Al Amiri unveiled a series of educational reforms aimed at enhancing the quality of classroom learning in the UAE. The most notable change is the elimination of homework for students in kindergarten through Grade 2. This policy is designed to prioritize in-school learning and encourage daily reading at home, reducing stress for both students and families.

The reforms also introduce a new examination framework for Grades 9-12, which will feature a 50-50 split between centralized and school-based assessments. This balanced approach aims to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of student performance, aligning with the UAE's commitment to fostering a more holistic educational environment.

Additionally, the policy mandates screen-free instruction for Grade 6 core subjects, including English, Arabic, science, and mathematics. This move is backed by research indicating that students in screen-free classrooms have nearly doubled retention rates compared to those in device-based settings. The Ministry of Education has confirmed that they are fully prepared for the implementation of these changes, with 11 new schools ready, over 8 million textbooks distributed, and more than 5,810 buses prepared for the upcoming academic year.

These reforms are part of a broader strategy to enhance educational outcomes and align with global best practices. By focusing on skill-based learning and reducing reliance on homework, the UAE aims to create a more engaging and effective learning environment for its students. The emphasis on project-based learning, starting with an integrated Grade 7 project, further supports this shift towards practical application of knowledge.

• Parents of young children: They will need to adjust to a new routine without homework and may find more time for family activities.
• Teachers in early education: They will adapt their teaching methods to focus more on in-class engagement and less on homework assignments.
• Students in Grades 6 and 9-12: They will experience changes in assessment methods and classroom dynamics, impacting their learning experience.

• Implementation readiness: Monitor how smoothly schools transition to the new policies and whether they meet the outlined goals.
• Student performance metrics: Keep an eye on retention rates and overall academic performance in the coming years to assess the effectiveness of these reforms.
• Parental feedback: Watch for reactions from parents regarding the no-homework policy and its impact on family life and student engagement.