UAE

Teachers at the heart of the UAE’s development and future

Teachers at the heart of the UAE’s development and future (ILLUSTRATIVE IMAGE)

5 Oct 2026 10:05

ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)

From classrooms to communities, teachers remain at the heart of the UAE’s development journey, shaping generations, nurturing values and preparing young people to meet the challenges of the future.

As the UAE and the world mark World Teachers’ Day on October 5, the occasion offers a renewed recognition of educators and their lasting contribution to society, while highlighting the importance of empowering the teaching profession in a rapidly changing world.

Dr Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, emphasised that teachers are fundamental to the UAE’s efforts to prepare and empower students, helping them develop skills aligned with their interests and future labour-market needs.

He noted that the rapid global advances in artificial intelligence technologies are placing new responsibilities on the education system and academic professionals, requiring them to continuously develop their professional capabilities, keep pace with emerging technologies, and harness them to enhance the educational process as an integral part of the UAE’s readiness for the future.

Education at Forefront of National Agenda
In a statement marking World Teachers’ Day, Al Awar said: "This year’s World Teachers’ Day comes at a time when the UAE’s education system is undergoing significant transformation, bringing schools closer to universities and research centres, while aligning higher education outcomes with labour market needs and the aspirations of the national economy.

“The national talent, research and innovations emerging from our universities today have their foundations in the classroom and in the capabilities and critical thinking skills that teachers instil in their students from their earliest years.”

He added: "Since the establishment of the UAE, our wise leadership has made investing in people a consistent strategic priority, with education at the forefront of the national agenda. In line with this approach, we are working to develop a flexible and integrated higher education system in which all stakeholders play complementary roles, and whose graduates possess the knowledge, skills, competence and excellence required for the future.”

He expressed his appreciation to teachers and academic professionals, saying: "We extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to teaching staff and academic and administrative professionals across the UAE’s schools and higher education institutions, as well as to the pioneers who carried the message of education during the early years of the UAE’s journey. The lasting impact they have made on their students provides the foundation upon which we continue to build the future of our nation.”

Teachers Key Partners in UAE’s Development Journey
Sarah bint Yousif Al Amiri, Minister of Education, said teachers have been key partners in the UAE’s development journey, contributing to the preparation of generations that have carried the nation’s ambitions and participated in its progress.

She said that the UAE leadership’s continued support for teachers reflects a firm belief in their vital role and commitment to empowering them to develop their capabilities and continue their educational mission.

Al Amiri said World Teachers’ Day represents a shared expression of appreciation for a noble mission that shapes minds, broadens horizons and instils confidence, values and a passion for knowledge in students.

The Minister also underlined the importance of a strong partnership between teachers and families, saying that integrating their roles provides students with a solid foundation for growth and learning, while ensuring that the child’s best interests and development remain at the centre.

She extended her appreciation to teaching staff and academic and administrative professionals across the UAE’s schools and higher education institutions, as well as the pioneers who carried the message of education during the early years of the UAE’s journey.

The Ministry of Education has placed investment in teachers, students and schools at the centre of preparations for the 2026-2027 academic year, with a focus on professional development, innovation and building an education system capable of keeping pace with advances in science and technology.

Education First Forum
The UAE is also marking World Teachers’ Day with the fourth Education First Forum, organised by the Emirates College for Advanced Education on October 5 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.

Held under the theme “From Impact to Ecosystem,” the forum will bring together around 500 participants and delegates, including educators, policymakers, researchers, families and community representatives, to discuss the future of education and the role of teachers within a wider educational ecosystem.

Globally, World Teachers’ Day has been observed every October 5 since 1994. The date commemorates the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers, which established international standards concerning teachers’ rights, responsibilities, preparation, recruitment and working conditions.