University Community Information Hub

In the current context, and in line with the guidance and recommendations of the authorities of the United Arab Emirates, this page provides information and resources primarily intended for students, as well as for academic and administrative staff, and the wider Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi community.

Here you will find practical information and official resources for reference. This page also explains the measures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone, while maintaining continuity in academic activities and university life.

This page will be updated regularly. The university will publish all relevant official information and communications here.

• Classes will be conducted remotely until April 17.
  The resumption of in-person classes will depend on government announcements.
  
  
• Following the latest directives from the relevant authorities in-person teaching will partially resume from Monday, 13 April in a hybrid format. This applies to the Bachelor in Physics and Foundation Year in Science programmes. You may choose to attend on campus or continue remotely, the choice is yours.
  While campus attendance is currently optional, we strongly recommend making use of in-person access whenever possible. On-campus access is particularly valuable for laboratory sessions and practical work, which are key components of your academic experience and cannot be fully replicated remotely.

For all other programmes, a formal request has been submitted, and we are hopeful for a broader re-opening soon.

Before the Class 

• Consult the materials made available (Blackboard and other platforms) 
• Prepare each session in advance 
• Check internet connection and equipment beforehand 

During the Class 

• Log in a few minutes before the start of each class 
• Remain present for the full duration of the session 
• Stay fully attentive and avoid engaging in parallel activities 
• Be ready to contribute, respond, and engage through microphone, chat, and interactive tools 
• Keeping the camera on is strongly recommended. When cameras are off, attention tends to drift, the sense of a shared class diminishes, and teaching risks becoming a monologue. Visual presence is essential: it sustains engagement, helps recreate the classroom experience, and fosters the group dynamic on which effective teaching and learning depend. Keeping the camera on is not only a matter of respect for instructors and peers; it is also the cornerstone of individual engagement and a key condition for meaningful online learning. 

If you are feeling anxious or need someone to talk to, dedicated teams within the university are available to provide confidential and supportive guidance. They can also direct you to appropriate resources if needed.

In addition, a free medical support service is available in the United Arab Emirates via the Istijaba Mental Health Helpline:

📞 800 1717 (from within the UAE)

This helpline connects you with qualified professionals.

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi offers free and confidential counseling services to help members of our community navigate challenges and maintain their wellbeing.

Book your session today.

Students on campus are encouraged to carefully follow the guidance provided by the university as well as the recommendations of the authorities.

For any questions regarding your personal situation or your stay in the United Arab Emirates, we also recommend contacting your embassy or consulate.

The university remains fully committed to supporting its community and will continue to provide regular updates and useful information.

In response to the current crisis situation and in line with national safety guidance, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi implemented a comprehensive set of operational and support measures to ensure business continuity including learning and operations continuity while putting safety first along with , well-being of the university community.