UAE education reform 2026: English mandatory for mathematics and science in private schools

The UAE's educational landscape is undergoing a monumental transformation. Under a new federal decree, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has officially mandated that Advanced Mathematics and Science subjects must now be taught in English across private schools nationwide.This directive, taking full effect for the 2025–2026 academic year, marks a departure from traditional models where schools had more flexibility in their language of instruction. By standardizing English as the medium for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), the UAE aims to ensure that every student, regardless of their school’s curriculum, is equipped with the linguistic tools necessary to excel in international higher education and the global workforce.

UAE’s new education policy

The UAE’s Ministry of Education has introduced a major new policy requiring that mathematics and science subjects be taught in English in private schools that follow the national curriculum. This change will begin with Grade 9 in the 2026–2027 academic year and expand by grade each year until Grade 12, with full implementation expected by the 2029–2030 academic year.According to the ministry’s circular to school administrators, this transition applies specifically to the Advanced Track, a pathway designed to prepare students for university-level STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) studies and future careers.

The decision comes as part of a broader effort to ensure students acquire global competencies in language and scientific reasoning, creating a smoother bridge between school and higher education environments where English is widely used.

How will it work?

To ensure a smooth rollout, the policy will be introduced gradually over four years:

This flexible schedule gives schools time to prepare teachers, refine curriculum materials, and support students as they adapt to learning complex subjects in a new language.School leaders quoted in reports welcomed the decision, saying it addresses challenges students face when entering universities where English is the academic norm.

Why does English matter for students?

Learning mathematics and science in English gives UAE students a strong foundation for university studies and future careers because English is the dominant language in global research, technical fields, and international higher education. The Ministry’s directive underscores that this language shift is not just about communication, it’s about preparing students for competitive global environments.Officials explained that the phased implementation is designed to allow schools time to prepare teaching staff, adapt curricula, update learning resources, and align digital tools with the approved language of instruction. Schools are also being urged to take early steps to update learning platforms and teaching materials in advance of each phase.Private school leaders familiar with these developments have noted that the language transition bridges a long-standing gap between secondary and tertiary education, where science and math courses are commonly taught in English.

Early exposure in secondary education can help students avoid adjustment issues later in their academic journeys.

A new education era

In essence, mandating English for advanced mathematics and science in private schools reflects the UAE’s commitment to world-class education that connects students with global opportunities. By making this shift thoughtfully and progressively, the Ministry of Education hopes to close performance gaps, improve university readiness, and position pupils for success in a rapidly changing world.As the 2026–2027 academic year approaches, private schools, students, and families are preparing to embrace these changes, marking a significant step forward in the UAE’s journey toward education excellence.