UAE Students Start School Before Sunrise
Why Some UAE Students Head to School Before Sunrise?
Over one million students in the United Arab Emirates returned to school after their winter break, which began on December 17. However, returning to school is not just about the excitement of learning, but also poses a new challenge for students and their parents: the exceptionally early start.
“Why Are We Leaving for School at Night?”
A preschooler living in al-Majaz set off for the school bus at 5:50 a.m. on Monday morning. As he stepped out the door, he asked his mother, "Why am I going to school at night?" This innocent question highlights that some students in the UAE truly start their day before sunrise.
Márta shared a similar experience while waiting for the school bus with her child: "When we went out, the moon was still in the sky. It felt completely surreal."
Weather Challenges and Early Departure
Weather conditions also complicate the early start. According to the National Meteorological Center's forecast, fog or haze is expected in inland and coastal areas, with light rain in the northern and eastern regions in the coming days. This requires families to pay particular attention when planning morning commutes.
A schoolboy from Bur Dubai, who is studying in Jebel Ali, also finds getting up in the dark unusual: "He said it feels like bedtime. It's heartbreaking to see him go out in the cold morning, so I added an extra layer to keep him warm."
Most parents are taking similar steps to protect their children. Coats, scarves, and gloves have become essential for students waiting for the school bus.
Early School Start and Distance Issues
In the UAE, schools generally start teaching between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m., meaning many families have to start their journeys early at dawn. This is particularly challenging for those who live farther away from their children's schools. Due to long commutes and early departures, more parents are advocating for reconsideration of school start times during colder months.
How Are Families Adapting?
Families use different strategies to ease the mornings. Some put their children to bed earlier, while others prepare with warm clothing and hot drinks. "Early starts aren't easy, but we try to maintain a positive attitude," said Sameera. "I know this is only a temporary phase."
Parents' Hopes
Many hope that schools will consider feedback from parents and students and implement more flexible school start times during the winter months. This could not only increase students' comfort but also help mitigate transportation issues during morning rush hour.
For families living in the UAE, early departures are a part of everyday life, but amidst the challenges, children's future and education remain the most important. Adaptation and community support continue to play a crucial role in this unique yet solvable situation.
