Some schools in the UAE have stopped outdoor play and sports this week because the air has become dusty and unsafe to breathe.

The National Centre of Meteorology warned about strong winds and dust in the air. This made it harder to see clearly outside and made the air unhealthy for children.

In Dubai, many parents got emails from schools saying all outdoor activities like lunch breaks and games would happen inside instead. This includes PE lessons, recess, and fun clubs after class.

One school said they made this decision to keep students safe, just like they did earlier in April when the air quality was also bad. Some air sensors near the school showed different results, but a few went over level 600 on the air pollution scale—which is very high.

The UAE Air Quality Index helps schools decide what to do when the air gets dusty. Schools are now used to changing plans quickly to protect students’ health.

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By Nandini Sircar. Original content published by Khaleej Times.