Kids Activities During School Closure in Dubai: A Complete Guide for Parents (2026)
Schools have been on distance learning since March 2026. If you're wondering what to do with your children at home all day, you're not alone. Here's everything Dubai parents need to know – from free activities to structured mentorship programmes.
Schools closed until at least April 17, 2026
KHDA confirms remote learning is extended. Parents are not expected to be teachers – but children need structured activity. See our Active Mentor programme →
In this guide:
1. What's Happening With Dubai Schools
Following confirmed missile interceptions over UAE territory in early March 2026, all UAE schools moved to distance learning. The closure, initially planned for a few days, has been extended multiple times:
- March 2-4: Initial closure due to airspace restrictions
- Extended to April 3: KHDA required MOE approval to reopen
- Extended to April 17: Remote learning for all nurseries, schools, and universities
For many families, this means 6+ weeks of children at home – the longest period of remote learning since the COVID-19 pandemic.
2. What KHDA Recommends for Parents
Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) released a parent guide with clear advice:
The key message: schools handle the teaching – you handle the support. But that support still takes time, energy, and planning that working parents don't always have.
3. Free and Low-Cost Activities in Dubai
Here are activities that cost little or nothing:
Parks & Playgrounds
Kite Beach, Al Barsha Pond Park, Safa Park, Creek Park
Swimming at Home
If you have a pool – structured swim sessions are the best exercise
Cycling & Skating
Dubai Canal path, Al Qudra cycling track, JBR promenade
Museums
Dubai Museum, Coffee Museum, Women's Museum (many free entry days)
Creative at Home
Drawing, LEGO, cooking together, science experiments
Library Visits
Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, Al Safa Library – free entry
4. Structured Childcare Options
For parents who work and can't supervise activities all day, here are the main options:
| Option | Cost | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Babysitter | 55-70 AED/hr | Supervision only, no activities |
| Full-time nanny | 2,500-4,500 AED/mo | Daily care, varies by person |
| Private tutor | 150-300 AED/hr | Academic only, no sports/play |
| Active Mentor | From 51 AED/hr | Swimming + homework + sports + adventures + daily reports |
Need Help Right Now?
Our Active Mentor programme gives your child a structured, active day – while you work or rest. From 55 AED/hr with certified STA coaches.
5. The Active Mentor Solution
ProFit Swimming created the Active Mentor programme specifically for this situation. Here's how it works:
- A certified STA coach comes to your home for 4-7 hours
- They lead a structured day: swimming, homework help, outdoor sports, park visits, creative play
- You receive a daily WhatsApp report with photos and videos
- Monthly packages start from 51 AED/hr – less than a babysitter
- Available for children aged 4-14 across all Dubai communities
6. Sample Daily Schedule for Kids at Home
Whether you use a mentor or manage at home, here's a proven structure:
Frequently Asked Questions
What should kids do when schools are closed in Dubai?+
Keep children active with a mix of physical activity (swimming, cycling, sports), educational support (homework help, online school), creative play, and outdoor adventures. KHDA recommends limiting screen time and maintaining a daily routine. An Active Mentor can provide all of this in a structured daily programme.
How long will schools be closed in Dubai 2026?+
As of April 2026, UAE schools moved to distance learning from March 2 and the closure has been extended through April 17. The Ministry of Education will announce further updates. Parents should plan for continued remote learning and keep children engaged with activities.
What is an Active Mentor for kids in Dubai?+
An Active Mentor is a certified STA coach from ProFit Swimming who spends 4-7 hours per day with your child. They provide swimming lessons, homework help, outdoor sports, park visits, and creative activities. Available for children aged 4-14, at your home in Dubai.
How much does childcare cost during school closures in Dubai?+
Regular babysitters charge 55-70 AED per hour. ProFit Active Mentors start from 51 AED per hour on monthly packages – less than a babysitter, but with a certified coach who provides structured activities, sports, homework help, and daily photo/video reports.