Qatar Schools Reopen August 30 With Essential Heat Safety Advisory
Students in Qatar are returning to public schools for the 2026-27 academic year on Sunday, August 30, 2026. Here are the key details you need to know:
- Ministry of Labour issues heat safety advisory ahead of school reopening.
- Ministry of Transport urges families to plan routes for morning travel.
- PHCC launches Back-to-School health campaign from August 30 to September 10.
- Registration and transfer window open from August 25 until October 1, 2026.
Heat Safety and School Reopening
Ahead of the reopening, the Ministry of Labour has issued a specific heat safety advisory to protect students from high temperatures, which remain elevated in Doha and surrounding areas. The Ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, advises parents to ensure children begin their day hydrated, keep adequate drinking water, and utilize shaded areas at bus stops to avoid direct sun exposure. Parents are urged to monitor children for symptoms of heat stress, such as dizziness, headache, weakness, excessive thirst, or fatigue. While administrative and teaching staff have already resumed duties to finalize classroom and transport arrangements, private and international schools may follow different calendars; parents are advised to verify reporting times via school apps or portals. Families are advised to keep emergency contacts and medical information updated with school staff on the first day of classes.
Traffic Advisory and Health Campaign
Additionally, the Ministry of Transport has issued a traffic advisory for August 29, urging families to plan routes in advance, allocate extra time for morning travel, and supervise children regarding bus safety rules. The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) is launching its 'Back-to-School' campaign from August 30 to September 10, 2026, across public schools and kindergartens. The program emphasizes healthy sleep schedules, nutrition, physical activity, and mental health.
Registration and School Transfers
Furthermore, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education has reopened the registration and transfer window for the 2026-27 academic year, effective from August 25 until October 1, 2026. Eighteen public schools have been allocated for children of private-sector resident workers in outlying areas, contingent upon residency documentation, including notarized tenancy contracts or electricity certificates. Applicants should consult the Maaref electronic portal for eligibility requirements.