Educators in the UAE are increasingly advocating for the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into school curricula, emphasizing the need to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary in a rapidly evolving digital world. With AI, teachers believe that schools can offer personalized learning experiences, enhance student engagement, and support teachers in providing data-driven insights to students. A recent study commissioned by PowerSchool and YouGov revealed that over 90% of educators in the UAE and Saudi Arabia believe that the current education system requires AI and other advanced technologies to improve learning outcomes.
Critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity are key areas where AI can make a significant impact. Khaleej Times spoke to several headteachers who highlighted that AI is already transforming educational practices. Louis La Grange, Head of Science for KG-Grade 5, ICT and STEAM teacher at Uptown International School, Mirdiff, stated, “I support teaching AI at the school level. Introducing AI, coding, and robotics progressively based on age is crucial as these skills are becoming integral to daily life. For younger students, tools like Scratch, Minecraft Education, and simple programming in JavaScript and Python foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Older students can explore more advanced AI applications, focusing on quality inputs and outputs, emphasizing research and ethical frameworks.”
Navigating the challenges of mastering a language is another area where AI can assist. Additionally, 90% of survey respondents agree that the education experience must be personalized to cater to the diverse needs of students. Around 79% of educators in the UAE advocate for teaching AI from an early age. The research also shows that 88% of educators emphasize the need for more professional development to keep up with AI advancements. La Grange stressed that in today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, technology is reshaping how students learn and engage with content. Among these advancements, artificial intelligence stands out as a transformative ally, particularly for students navigating the challenges of mastering English as a second language.
“AI can assist students in learning, especially those with English as a second language, by building arguments, prompting critical thinking, and supporting language skills. We had a huge influx of Chinese students, for example, and it helped me a lot to assist these students. It’s also a powerful tool for research, coding, troubleshooting, and even creating quizzes or discussion prompts, enhancing both teaching and learning,” La Grange explained.
Framing policies is imperative. The long-serving teacher emphasized that many schools are formulating policies on the use of AI, and his school is doing the same, describing it as a “working document.” “Educators must guide students in using AI ethically and responsibly, ensuring they balance curiosity with critical awareness. Schools must develop adaptable AI policies while recognizing the importance of the human element in teaching. As adults, we may be skeptical, but students are very curious and open-minded about new technology. Therefore, teachers play a pivotal role in exposing students to technology and empowering them to master it within an ethical and balanced framework,” La Grange added.
According to the survey, 51% of teachers identified the automation of repetitive and time-consuming tasks as the primary advantage of using AI tools, including features like assigning homework. Additionally, 49% highlighted its role in attendance tracking, while another 49% stressed its usefulness in sending reminders. Empowering teachers by automating routine tasks is another significant benefit.
Sangita Chima, Principal, Amity School Dubai, said, “AI education at an early age focuses on foundational, hands-on learning using interactive tools, gamified platforms, etc. These learning tools spark curiosity and empower students for life. Familiarizing students with AI concepts early on prepares them to navigate, contribute to, and critically assess a world increasingly driven by AI technologies. Students understand computational thinking, problem-solving, and creativity in their growing years. Also, there is excellent scope for empowering teachers by automating routine tasks such as grading, paperwork, and extensive planning.”
Meanwhile, Abhilasha Singh, Principal, Shining Star International, said, “We have AI as a skill-based subject in middle school because by then the understanding of students has evolved. AI is here to stay and is going to be a part of our lives. So, bringing this awareness to children is important. It is a part of our curriculum. We also have a responsibility to prepare our students for the future job market. We can’t ignore it, so we better adopt it. But there is a lot of ethics around it. Academic integrity is important.” “I also support the use of AI technology for teachers as it assists with lesson preparation, making the process more time-efficient,” she added.
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