How AI is reshaping UAE classrooms

SCHOOLS GO BEYOND CREATIVITY, EQUIPPING STUDENTS WITH SKILLS FOR JOBS OF TOMORROW

- BY SAJILA SASEENDRAN Chief Reporter

As the UAE becomes one of the first countries to make artificial intelligence (AI) a mandatory subject in public schools from this academic year, several private schools have started their own AI journeys, embedding it into lessons, upskilling teachers, and preparing students to thrive in an AI-driven future.

From Abu Dhabi to Ajman, school leaders told Gulf News that they are moving quickly to ensure their students are not just AI users, but creators and innovators who can lead the country’s vision in technology and sustainability.

As students go back to school after the summer break, leaders of many private schools say AI is no longer an “add-on” but a core part of modern education, with classrooms being transformed into AI-powered learning hubs.

‘Al is a structured part of our academic timetable’

Habitat School—Al Tallah in Ajman has adopted AI as part of its curriculum since 2019, said principal Mariyam Nizar Ahamed. The school established a dedicated AI Lab back then and even offers AI as a skill subject for Grades 9 and 10.

“AI education begins as early as Grade 1, with tailor-made courses designed to meet the diverse needs of our students,” she said.

“AI is a structured part of our academic timetable, with weekly sessions and continuous, term-wise progress monitoring. This structured approach not only promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also supports personalised learning paths, empowering students to become independent learners equipped with essential technological competencies for the future.”

The school’s annual Digital Festival also provides a platform to showcase student-led AI projects.

Fully accredited BTEC qualification in Al offered