In-person classes in Riyadh suspended and switched to remote learning on Tuesday
Based on reports from the National Center for Meteorology and in the interest of public safety, the Riyadh Education Department has announced the suspension of in-person classes in Riyadh and their transition to remote learning for Tuesday, April 21, 2026. This decision will implement the shift to distance learning via the "My School" platform and other approved educational platforms for all students, as well as school staff (both teaching and administrative) in several governorates within the region.
Details of the decision to suspend in-person classes in Riyadh and the affected governorates
The education department explained that this precautionary measure comes as part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of the entire educational community, given the weather forecast indicating heavy rainfall in the region. The governorates and centers affected by the decision to suspend in-person classes include: Thadiq, Huraymila, Rumah, Dhurma, Marat, Dawadmi, Zulfi, Majmaah, Ghat, Shaqra, Afif, Ar-Rayn, and Al-Quway'iyah. Schools in these areas will activate virtual classrooms to ensure the continuation of the educational process without interruption.
Digital infrastructure and educational transformation in the face of climate emergencies
The widespread adoption of e-learning in Saudi Arabia dates back to the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Ministry of Education successfully launched and developed the “My School” platform as a comprehensive digital alternative. This strategic investment in digital infrastructure is no longer just a temporary solution to the pandemic; it has become a cornerstone for managing crises and emergencies, such as the severe weather fluctuations that the region experiences from time to time. Thanks to this high level of preparedness, the education system is now able to seamlessly transition from in-person to remote learning within a few hours, ensuring that no school days are lost while fully safeguarding the health of students and teachers.
Local and regional impact of decisions to suspend preventive education
Locally, the decision to suspend in-person classes directly contributes to easing pressure on road networks and facilitating traffic flow for service and security agencies during rainfall, as well as protecting lives from the dangers associated with flash floods and water accumulation. Regionally and internationally, Saudi Arabia's experience in rapidly transitioning to digital education during climate crises offers an inspiring model of educational systems' resilience and adaptability to ongoing environmental changes, reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a leading nation in adopting sustainable educational technology solutions.
