Distance learning in the UAE: 7 tips for students to create a focused study zone at home

DUBAI 23°CGOLD/FOREXPRAYER TIMESNEWSLETTERSLOGIN GOLD/FOREXDUBAI 23°CPRAYER TIMES UAEUAEUNITED IN STRENGTHRAMADANASK GULF NEWSPEOPLEGOVERNMENTEDUCATIONCOURT & CRIMEHEALTHEMERGENCIESENVIRONMENTTRANSPORTWEATHER Distance learning in the UAE: 7 tips for students to create a focused study zone at homeFor starters, leave the phone in the other room Distance learning in the UAE can be challenging, and keeping children focused at home often feels like an uphill battle. With distractions, tech temptations, and the lure of lounging in comfy clothes, both parents and teens need smart strategies to make study time productive—and even enjoyable. Where do you start? Organising the space and setting clear routines is a great first step. These expert-backed tips show how to transform home learning, and helping your child stay on track and actually enjoy the process. Read here to see what parents have suggested too. Shelina Jokhiya,  professional organiser and founder of Decluttr Me recommends: “It doesn’t need to be a separate room. A consistent spot at a desk or table is enough. When your child sits there regularly, their brain starts to associate that space with focus and work.” For teens: Make it a space you actually want to be in, a lamp you like, something on the wall, even a small plant. The more it feels like yours, the more likely you are to use it consistently, she advises. Clutter can quite often, hinder concentration. A cluttered desk creates a cluttered mind, explains Jokhiya. Clear your child’s workspace before every study session, leaving only what’s needed. Before settling down, tidy your surface, it helps your brain shift into focus mode. No more hunting for pencils or chargers mid-session. “Have a dedicated spot for all school supplies so they can sit down and get straight to it,” says Jokhiya. Teens can take it further: “If you’re spending the first ten minutes of every session hunting for your charger or notes, you’re losing momentum before you’ve even begun.” Phones really disrupt focus. Jokhiya advises: “Even a phone face down on the desk reduces concentration. A simple rule of phones in another room, or a charging station outside the study area, removes the temptation entirely." For teens: Even having it visible on the desk, face down and silent and reduces your concentration. It will still be there in 45 minutes. A well-lit, comfortable space can make all the difference—especially in the UAE, where we often rely on artificial light. As Shelina Jokhiya points out: “A proper desk lamp for evening study and a spot near a window where possible makes a real difference to concentration and eye strain.” Teens know it too: being too hot or too cold can break your focus. Find a temperature that feels just right, and you’ll notice concentrating comes a lot more naturally. For teens: Being too hot or too cold genuinely affects concentration. Find a comfortable temperature and you’ll find focusing comes a lot more naturally. Long, unbroken study marathons aren't advisable. Jokhiya suggests: “Encourage focused blocks of 25 to 45 minutes followed by a genuine break where they get up and move. The brain consolidates information better this way.” For teens: Jokhiya advises, “Nobody’s brain focuses well for hours on end. Try 30 to 45 minute bursts with a proper break in between. You’ll actually retain more and get through work faster.” Motivation can come and go, but a little consistency goes a long way. Pick a set time each day for homework or revision and treat it like a real appointment, add it to your calendar and set a reminder so it actually happens. As Jokhiya points out: “If you share a space with family, let them know when you’re in a study block. A simple ‘I’m studying for the next hour’ reduces interruptions and means you’re not constantly being pulled out of your focus.” Over time, these small, steady habits make staying on track feel effortless. Why UAE parents back extension of distance learning How to help autistic children during distance learning UAE space leaders hail bold five-year strategy UAE MBRSC reaffirms role after NASA halts Lunar Gateway Welcoming Eid with simple touches for a festive home Preparing children for an independent life after school