CBSE postpones Class 12 board exams 2026 in UAE & Middle East countries
2 minute read
• Updated on 7 Mar, 2026, 10:56 PM, by Arman Kumar
The Central Board of Secondary Education has postponed Class 12 board examinations set for March 9 to March 11, 2026, in UAE, Bahrain, Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia owing to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The board will review conditions on March 10 and announce updated exam dates in due course
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has postponed the Class 12 board examinations that were scheduled to be held from March 9 to March 11, 2026 across several countries in the Middle East due to the ongoing regional situation. The board said that revised dates for these deferred exams will be communicated at a later stage after assessing safety and logistical conditions
Countries affected by the postponement of CBSE
According to the official announcement, the postponement applies to CBSE‑affiliated schools in the following nations:
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Bahrain
- Iran
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
This decision comes amid an escalation in tensions linked to the ongoing Iran‑Israel conflict, which has prompted safety concerns and operational disruptions in parts of the West Asia region.
CBSE Details of the revised schedule and review
The board has stated that it will review the situation on March 10, 2026 to determine whether the examination schedule from March 12 onwards can proceed as originally planned or further adjustments will be necessary. Schools and students are advised to stay in close contact with their institutions for official updates.
Impact on students and preparation
Students who were scheduled to sit for exams during the postponed dates have expressed concern and uncertainty about future timelines, as the revised schedule may affect study plans, travel arrangements and other academic commitments. Parents and educators have called for clear communication on the new dates to help candidates adjust their preparations
Background and related disruption
Earlier in the week, CBSE had already cancelled Class 10 board examinations scheduled from March 7 to March 11 and postponed other Class 12 papers in the region due to similar concerns. The board continues to monitor developments closely and prioritise student safety in its decisions.
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