The Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) has announced that the start of the 2026–2027 academic year for private schools following Indian and Pakistani curricula in Sharjah has been postponed.

According to a circular issued to schools on Thursday, students will now begin classes on March 30, 2026, instead of the previously scheduled March 23.

Remote exams scheduled

SPEA said students may sit for examinations remotely between March 9 and March 12.

The authority explained that the decision came after requests from schools submitted through the Council of School Principals, and after reviewing the justifications provided by school administrations.

Temporary guidelines for schools

The authority also issued new instructions regarding school access for staff and parents.

Some administrative and teaching staff may be present on campus, but their number must not exceed 15 employees and should be limited to operational needs.

Parents will also be allowed to visit schools to collect uniforms and books, but only according to numbers and schedules set by the school administrations.

Schools asked to update parents

SPEA has asked school administrations to make the necessary internal arrangements and inform students and parents about the revised schedule.

The move aims to ensure smooth preparations before the start of the new academic year.

Authorities in the UAE have reminded residents to follow safety instructions when emergency alert sirens are activated across the country. Officials say some people stop to film videos during alerts, which can put lives at risk.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has urged residents to prioritise safety and follow official instructions they receive on their mobiles, warning that ignoring alerts or failing to comply with guidance may lead to legal accountability.

Here is a simple guide for residents on what UAE warning signals mean and what to do if you hear them.

1. Warning signal (Danger alert)

When this signal is activated, it means there may be a potential danger at a national or local level.

What residents should do

• Move immediately to the nearest safe place or shelter
• Stay indoors and avoid going outside
• Follow instructions from official authorities
• Do not stop to film or share videos

Authorities say the alert is issued to protect lives, so residents should act quickly and calmly.

2. Out of danger signal

This signal is issued when the threat has passed or the situation has been brought under control.

What residents should do

• They can return to their homes or normal activities
• Continue to follow updates from official sources if needed

3. Important announcement signal

This alert indicates that authorities will share important information or instructions with the public.

What residents should do

• Immediately listen to local radio or official media channels
• Check government announcements for updates
• Follow any instructions issued by authorities

If you are driving during an alert

Authorities advise motorists to:

• Continue driving to their destination
• Once you arrive, go to the nearest safe place or shelter
• Avoid stopping your vehicle to film the alert

Why authorities issue reminder

The UAE’s public warning system, operated by the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and Civil Defence, uses sirens placed across the country and mobile alerts to warn residents of potential threats. Officials stressed that public cooperation is essential to ensure safety during emergencies.

Residents are encouraged to stay calm, follow instructions, and prioritise personal safety when an alert is issued.

Dubai has granted law enforcement powers to select government officials under a new resolution (Resolution No. (2) of 2026) issued by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai.

The move aims to strengthen efforts to protect Dubai’s urban appearance and improve public cleanliness, while encouraging stronger community participation in reporting violations.

Under the resolution, officials from Dubai Municipality will use the ‘Eltizam’ smart application to monitor and document practices that may negatively affect the city’s environment.

The Eltizam app, developed by Dubai Municipality, allows selected government officials and members of the public to report issues that impact the emirate’s urban landscape in an organised and transparent way.

Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, noted that the initiative reflects Dubai’s commitment to using innovative digital tools to support the emirate’s vision of being one of the world’s most beautiful and advanced cities.

How violations will be monitored

According to the resolution, authorised officials will be responsible for monitoring violations related to public cleanliness, documenting offences, collecting evidence, and ensuring people follow relevant regulations.

They will also receive complaints from the public, prepare official reports, and take necessary steps to preserve evidence when violations occur.

In certain situations, officials may also request assistance from police, consult experts, question witnesses, and conduct inspections where needed.

Authorities say the Eltizam platform will help strengthen community involvement, transparency, and compliance, while supporting Dubai’s goal of creating a clean, sustainable and high-quality urban environment for residents and visitors.