A number of universities in Dubai have resumed classes for in-person learning, while other campuses are continuing virtual education amid the ongoing efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in the emirate. As part of the efforts to gradually return to face-to-face classes in compliance with all safety protocols, many universities adopted a wait-and-watch approach at the beginning of the new semester. When COVID-19 cases surged in the first weeks of January, colleges opted for distance learning programme to ensure the continuity of education.

Speaking in this regard, Dr K Kumar, Associate Dean, Academic - Undergraduate Studies of BITS Pilani Dubai campus, said that the university commenced its second semester on January 25 2022 after a three-week break.

Currently, the university is offering online classes, which will later be followed by face-to-face classes in accordance with the COVID-19 situation.

For the first two weeks, all the courses will be offered fully online for all programmes, moving to on-site or face-to-face classes for all the programmes from the third week.

"We already have all the modern classroom/laboratory facilities to cater to the needs of all the courses offered for all modes of teaching (online, hybrid, face-face); all the precautionary measures are in place as per the KHDA protocol and Dubai Govt Protoco;," he added.

He noted that before the start of classes, the entire campus was thoroughly sanitized, further confirming the university's readiness to welcome all students for face-to-face classes from February 14, 2022.

Varsities that have already resumed classes are treading with caution while keeping the health and hygiene of all students and staff at their top priority.

Various universities have also implemented several proactive regulations to ensure that students get a safe, healthy, and interactive environment at the campus. The administrations have also enhanced their preparedness for various scenarios in regular consultation with concerned authorities.

The registrar's office at Canadian University Dubai recently issued a statement, noting that in-person learning is open at the campus.

"Classes are being delivered on campus though exams have not yet started. We care about safety first for all faculty students and staff," the statement added.

Experts have also pointed out that education in the UAE has developed significantly in view of the ongoing circumstances. The present situation also calls on educators and educational facilities to ensure the provision of modern teaching styles which allows students to effectively adopt a more hybrid approach towards learning.

Dr Fazal Malik, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Amity University Dubai, underlined that the university is working on alternate academic schedules and class structures for every programme in accordance with the current COVID-19 situation.

"Flipped classes and digital learning will also continue to accommodate students with any health concerns. We are determined to ensure that every students' University experience includes social interactions, events and practical course work in a safe and secure environment," he added.