UAE President Sheikh Mohamed shares inspiring message on the first day of school

On the first day of the new school year, UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has shared a heartfelt message of support. Taking to X on Monday, August 31, as children across the emirates begin the new academic year, Sheikh Mohamed wished teachers, students and parents a ‘successful year that continues to support our nation’s educational journey.’ “Our children are our true wealth, and I encourage them to embark on the new school year with optimism, ambition, and determination, making the most of every opportunity to gain knowledge and life skills,” the statement read. Concluding his message, Sheikh Mohamed paid tribute to the relationship between families and schools, sharing, “I also encourage continued cooperation between families and schools to foster a passion for lifelong learning, equip students with the skills of the future, and reinforce a strong sense of identity and values.” Monday, August 31 marked the first day of school for many educational institutions across the UAE after the summer break. Across the country, more than 1,180 public and private schools will return to learning today, welcoming a record 1.277 million pupils, per The National. ALSO READ: Back to school; how to help your child ease into the new routine With roads expected to be busy, the UAE’s Accident Free Day also returns on Monday August 31. And if you sign up to the pledge to avoid having an accident on Accident Free Day, you could get four black points removed from your license. To take part in Accident Free Day, you’ll need to pledge your participation on the Ministry of Interior website. To do that, you’ll need your Emirates ID to sign up, and then sign a pledge that you will adhere to the road traffic rules on Accident Free Day, such as sticking to the speed limit, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, fastening seatbelts, and giving way to emergency vehicles when required.