Back to schools in UAE: Dubai students don’t need PCR tests to return, KHDA says – News

Other emirates announce Covid safety rules for children returning to school

Students in Dubai are not required to take a negative PCR test when they return to school after a two-month summer break.

In its latest guidance, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) said there would be no Covid-19 testing requirements this year.

The notice to schools also stipulates that Covid-19 patients (students) must be quarantined for 10 days, while social distancing rules and masks in indoor areas remain mandatory.

Dubai

Nargish Khabatta, Dean of GEMS Modern College Dubai and Vice President of Education, GEMS Education, said: “Schools in Dubai no longer require PCR testing of staff and students over the age of 12, nor do they need to have proof of vaccination ready. Proof of vaccination. Parents and guests don’t even need PCR tests or temperature checks. Our staff have been at the school for almost a week and are in good health.”

She added: “Masks will continue to be part of our school’s first line of defence. While they are mandatory indoors, they don’t necessarily have to be worn outdoors – this will be useful especially when the heat index is favourable outdoors. On play days. Regular sanitization will continue, especially in high-touch, high-traffic areas. Social distancing is recommended, but not mandatory, and as educators, we especially like this advice—schools will take Smart precautions to keep their communities safe without worrying about a ‘good’ culture.”

But other emirates have different rules and students must take a PCR test on the first day of the school year/semester to return to class.

Abu Dhabi

Abhilasha Singh, Principal of Shining Star International Abu Dhabi, said: “We are very pleased to welcome our students back to school. ADEK’s new PCR requirement is a 96-hour PCR negative requirement for all staff and students over the age of 12. Al Hosn Apps should be green and parents and other visitors can enter the school.”

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Sharjah

Dr Arogya Reddy Ambassador School in Sharjah said: “SPEA requires children aged 12 years and above to have a negative PCR test of up to 96 hours. Isolation rules for Covid positive patients are more or less the same. Asymptomatic close contacts will be quarantined Three days. Parents must show a green pass if they want to enter the school.”