Good morning from The National on April 20, 2026.
Here are the latest developments in the Emirates:
- Some schools and nurseries across the UAE reopen today for the first time since the Iranian attacks on the Emirates began.
- US President Donald Trump on Sunday said the US Navy had disabled and seized an Iranian-flagged cargo ship in the Gulf of Oman.
- Iran's top joint military command, Khatam al-Anbiya, vowed to retaliate as it accused the US of violating the ceasefire.
- Iranian state media has cast doubt on peace talks expected to take place in Islamabad, saying there were "no clear prospects" for further negotiations.
- The Strait of Hormuz must be "returned to the world, exactly as it was", said Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and managing director and group chief executive of Adnoc.
You can follow our live blog for all the latest on the Iran war as we receive it.
Back to school: Dubai’s education authority says safety is paramount
Dubai’s education authority praised the community for its unity and resilience, assured parents of flexibility in resuming in-person classes and stressed a commitment to the safety of each and every pupil.
Some schools and nurseries are scheduled to open nationwide today, more than a month after the Iran war started on February 28.
Strict protocols are in place for schools reopening, with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority saying no institution would be permitted to open without its approval.
“This return has been carefully and collaboratively prepared. For families who are not yet ready, you can continue with distance learning," said Dr Wafi Dawood, chief executive of the KHDA’s strategic development sector.
The full story from Ramola Talwar Badam can be found here
Dubai launches scheme to allow remote working from public parks
People are being invited to avail of a scheme to work remotely from public parks in Dubai.
The Work from Park initiative will start in May with Al Barsha Pond Park being designated as the “first flagship destination” for the project.
The initiative aims to create "multifunctional urban assets" that support modern lifestyles and work patterns, enhance economic productivity, and foster social and community engagement, according to Dubai Municipality.
“Dubai Municipality’s Work from Park initiative reflects our commitment to transforming public parks into future-ready urban spaces that enhance quality of life while supporting economic activity,” said Bader Anwahi, chief executive of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality.
Read the full report here
Fact of the day
The UAE launched a digital platform allowing consumers to compare prices of goods to find the best deals on essential items. Read more here
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