Riyadh Schools Shift to Remote Learning Amid Houthi Threats

In Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, schools have decided to adopt “remote learning” protocols similar to those seen during the Wuhan coronavirus pandemic. This change seems to be in response to potential drone and missile attacks from the Iran-supported Houthi insurgents in Yemen.

A report indicated that at least three schools contacted parents over the weekend to inform them that their children would need to stay home and engage in remote learning for the upcoming week. Interestingly, the messages didn’t elaborate on the reasons behind the closure, and the Saudi Ministry of Education has not publicly addressed the issue.

Two notices from schools, which were reviewed by Agence France-Presse, stated that school authorities received directives from Saudi officials to keep schools closed for the entire week.

One school notice mentioned that this remote learning arrangement would continue until October 1. The lack of an official statement from the Ministry of Education has fueled speculation that multiple schools opted for remote learning due to concerns about recent Houthi drone strikes.

Typically, Saudi schools move to remote learning during emergencies, and there have been instances in recent months due to severe weather. However, in those cases, the education administration typically issued formal announcements explaining such decisions.

The Houthis have been intensifying their attacks on Saudi cities over the past few weeks. The Saudi-led coalition reported that two Houthi drones targeting Riyadh were intercepted on Saturday, along with two ballistic missiles aimed at Khamis Mushait.

The Gulf Cooperation Council condemned the ongoing Houthi assaults, asserting that these actions represent a serious breach of the Kingdom’s sovereignty and a direct threat to civilian safety and regional stability.

Parents expressed frustration regarding the abrupt school closures, particularly given the absence of a clear rationale from the government. One anonymous parent noted, “When a decision impacts an entire school community for a full week, families deserve clear communication and transparency about the reasons behind it.”