Mashable: As the new academic year kicks off on August 25, the UAE Ministry of Education is shaking up traditional school assessments by canceling second-term exams for all students from grade five and above. This progressive step aims to reduce exam-related stress while fostering a more comprehensive and ongoing evaluation of student progress throughout the year.

Instead of relying on high-stakes exams, students will now be assessed continuously, providing a clearer picture of their learning journey, talents, and extracurricular strengths. Mohammed Al Qasim, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education, explained the rationale behind this shift: “The reason for this change is to provide more academic support and focus on students’ talents and extracurricular activities,” as per Gulf News. The reform signals a broader move to modernize education in the UAE by tailoring assessment methods to better suit student well-being and future readiness. In line with this vision, the curriculum will also introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) education for the first time.

Assistant Undersecretary for Curriculum and Assessment, Amna Al Saleh, shared that 1,000 teachers will guide students in understanding AI, equipping them with essential skills to thrive in a tech-driven world. With around one million students returning to classrooms across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other Emirates, the Ministry is also expanding educational infrastructure by opening nine new public schools this year.