Private schools and early learning centres in Dubai will continue with remote learning until April 3, authorities have confirmed, as precautionary measures remain in place.

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) announced the extension on Friday, citing ongoing monitoring of conditions across the emirate.

Weekly review in place

The Ministry of Education UAE had earlier confirmed that distance learning for nurseries, public, and private schools will continue until April 3, with the situation under weekly review.

Authorities stressed that updates will be shared promptly as conditions evolve.

Return to classrooms under review

KHDA also noted that a flexible mechanism will be introduced, allowing private schools to request a return to in-person learning when appropriate.

These decisions will depend on:

• Each school’s operational readiness
• Student safety and wellbeing
• Overall conditions across the education sector

If your food or grocery delivery is taking longer than usual, the reason lies in the severe weather currently sweeping across the city.

With heavy rains, strong winds, and thunderstorms hitting Dubai, Dubai Police has advised delivery riders to temporarily halt services during unsafe conditions, putting safety ahead of speed.

Safety first, deliveries later

Authorities have urged riders to avoid travelling during intense rainfall, especially in:

• Flooded streets
• Low-visibility conditions
• Areas prone to water accumulation

This means many delivery services may be paused or significantly delayed, particularly during peak rainfall hours.

Why delays are necessary

Officials warn that riding in such conditions can be dangerous. Risks include:

• Slippery roads and skidding
• Poor visibility due to heavy rain
• Waterlogged streets that can stall bikes

To reduce accidents, riders are being encouraged to wait until conditions improve before resuming deliveries.

Even taxis are running late

Taxi drivers have also been told to drive cautiously and avoid flooded areas, which could slow overall traffic movement across the city, adding to delays.

What you should expect

• Longer wait times for food and grocery orders
• Temporary service interruptions in some areas
• Limited rider availability during storms

What you can do

• Plan ahead and order earlier if possible
• Expect delays and track orders in real time
• Avoid placing urgent orders during peak storms

Commuters across the UAE faced travel disruptions this week as unstable weather conditions forced authorities to take precautionary measures.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced on Friday that several bus routes may be temporarily disrupted due to ongoing adverse weather. The decision comes as heavy rainfall and water accumulation on roads continue to impact safe travel across the region.

Bus services connecting Dubai to neighbouring emirates, including Sharjah and Ajman, were suspended on Thursday after flooding made certain routes unsafe for operation.

Authorities emphasised that passenger safety remains the top priority. Officials are closely monitoring the situation and will resume services once conditions improve and roads are deemed safe.

Residents and daily commuters are advised to stay updated through official RTA platforms for the latest service announcements and travel advisories.

With weather conditions still unpredictable, travellers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra time for journeys, and consider alternative transportation options where possible.