The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has postponed Class XII board examinations scheduled for its affiliated schools in several Middle East countries amid ongoing regional tensions.
The affected countries include Bahrain, Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
According to the board, the examinations that were originally scheduled between March 12 and March 16, 2026, have been deferred after reviewing the situation in the region.
The decision was taken considering the uncertainty in parts of the Middle East and the mental stress faced by students during the current situation.
Situation to be reviewed on March 14
CBSE said it will review the situation on March 14, 2026, after which a new examination schedule will be announced.
Students have been advised to remain in contact with their respective schools for further updates and follow official announcements issued by the board, officials said.
Notification issued to schools and embassies
The notice was issued by Dr Sanyam Bhardwaj, Controller of Examinations at CBSE. The notification have also been sent to Indian diplomatic missions in the region, including the Indian embassies in Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Muscat, Doha, Manama, Kuwait City and Tehran, as well as the Consulate General of India in Dubai, it said.
The board was closely monitoring the developments and will take further decisions based on the evolving situation.
Indian embassy in UAE issues advisory
Last week, the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi had issued an advisory, addressing Indian nationals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) amid the prevailing situation in West Asia that has led to temporary disruptions in airspace and flight operations.
In the advisory, the Embassy urged all Indian nationals currently in the UAE to remain vigilant, stay calm, and strictly adhere to the safety guidelines issued by the UAE authorities. They are also advised to follow official advisories from time to time to ensure their well-being.
Helplines activated for stranded Indians
The Embassy further informed that its offices in Abu Dhabi, along with the Consulate in Dubai and their outsourced passport, consular, and visa services, are functioning normally.
Indian nationals in the UAE facing any queries or concerns can reach out round-the-clock through the following helplines:
Toll-free number: 800-46342
WhatsApp: +971 543090571
Queries can also be sent via email to pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in or ca.abudhabi@mea.gov.in.
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