President Sheikh Mohamed reaffirms education as a national priority

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After International Day of Education, the UAE President reiterated education’s central place in the nation’s long-term direction

 

In a message shared for International Day of Education (24 January 2026)—a UN-designated day highlighting education’s role in peace and development—His Highness President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised the importance of learning to the UAE’s future.

He said: “Education remains a fundamental pillar of the UAE’s long-term strategic vision. On International Day of Education, we remain focused on advancing a modern education system that reinforces our identity and values, supports national development priorities, and empowers our youth to be active partners in driving progress across knowledge, technology, and innovation.”

The message comes at a time when education in the UAE is evolving at pace. Schools across the country are responding to changing skills demands, advances in learning technologies, and a growing emphasis on preparing children for an increasingly complex world.

Alongside academic achievement, there is a stronger focus on resilience, creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability.

The UAE’s education landscape is also shaped by its diversity. With families from more than 185 nationalities and schools offering over 17 international curricula, classrooms reflect a globally connected learning environment, providing families with meaningful choice and children with the opportunity to learn alongside peers from around the world.

 

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Jemma Nicholls

Jemma Nicholls is an editor and writer with more than 22 years’ experience in print and broadcast journalism. BBC-trained in the UK, she moved to the UAE over 20 years ago and was a founding member of Dubai Eye 103.8FM. She has held senior editorial roles at The National and other UAE publications, while also contributing to respected international titles. Jemma was part of the original communications team that launched the first Taaleem schools and has written widely on education for global groups. With two children in UAE schools, she brings firsthand insight, regional knowledge, and a passion for education, lifestyle, and storytelling.