Dubai schools: Rules for students travelling during spring break

Dubai - For most schools, the spring break started from March 28 to April 8, marking the end of a semester.

Schools in Dubai have been advising caution to their students and staff who are looking to travel abroad during the spring break.

If students travel, they are required to present a negative Covid-19 PCR test, which is valid within 48 hours of the start of school. This policy will be implemented for all staff, too.

Alternatively, children may return to school after home quarantine for 10 days following their travel. They must also declare their recent travel history by completing the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) form online.

For most schools, the spring break started from March 28 to April 8, marking the end of a semester.

For Indian schools, the two-week break after the finish of an academic year ends on April 1, with classes commencing from April 4.

Sangita Chima, principal, Amity School Dubai, said: “We have advised caution, though a small number of staff, students and parents may travel during this break. With all our teachers vaccinated and a large majority of our parent community also vaccinated, it has added a layer of safety. Consistent and constant communication with parents has helped us keep track of the health and safety of our students.

We are looking forward to having children return to school for face-to-face learning."

She added: “All students, who have travelled, will be required to furnish a negative PCR report or complete a 10-day quarantine from the date of arrival, prior to returning to school. We shall be keeping a track of the travelling adults and children who are advised to fill in a declaration upon departure and return.”

Many schools had been conducting surveys before the start of the vacations, asking students to inform the school of their intention to travel over the spring break.

Akram Tarik, CEO & principal, GEMS Founders School–Al Mizhar, pointed out: “Our initial analysis indicates that the vast majority of families and staff will not be travelling. For the minority that do intend to travel, we have reminded all families and staff to follow the latest government updates and to complete a travel declaration form before returning to school in Term 3.

The vigilance of the school community in helping us keep everyone safe is vital, and we have, therefore, also asked all those travelling abroad to either quarantine for 10 days prior to the start of Term 3 or submit a negative PCR test result dated within 48 hours of the start of Term 3.”