UAE launches first national AI curriculum, slashes centralised exams, and boosts Arabic education in 2025–26 reforms.
ABU DHABI: The UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) has unveiled sweeping reforms for the 2025–2026 academic year, including the launch of the nation’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) curriculum. The changes, announced during a media briefing led by Minister Sarah Al Amiri, aim to enhance learning outcomes, simplify assessments, and modernise classroom experiences.
As part of the new reforms, centralised exams at the end of the second semester will be replaced by school-based assessments, leaving only the first and third semesters with nationwide exams. This move aims to diversify evaluation methods and support improved teaching quality. The UAE school reforms 2025–2026 also include a broader rollout of project-based learning assessments, now covering all Cycle 2 students across both public and private schools.
The highlight of the new plan is the introduction of the UAE’s first national AI curriculum. Roughly 1,000 teachers have been trained to deliver AI education across all grades, providing students with the skills needed to responsibly and effectively use AI in real-life situations and future careers. The UAE school reforms 2025–2026 are expected to influence global discussions on education policy involving AI integration.
In addition to academic advancements, the Ministry is investing in student wellbeing. A new Physical Education, Sports and Health Programme will introduce nutritious meals, improved PE sessions, and nationwide sports events. Arabic language and Islamic education will also see increased teaching hours, with a new Grade 1 baseline assessment piloted in 100 schools.
Operational upgrades include nine new schools opening for 25,000 students, 47,000 laptops distributed, and full readiness of over 460 schools. The MoE’s “From Skill to Leadership” campaign will also motivate students with community-focused programmes. The UAE school reforms 2025–2026 reflect a bold new vision for the future of education.
