Schools in Riyadh resumed in-person classes on Monday following a sudden and unexplained reversal of an earlier decision to close educational institutions for a week. Officials did not provide an official explanation for the abrupt change in policy, which came just a day after the closure was announced.

On Sunday evening, parents in the Saudi capital received notifications that schools would reopen for face-to-face learning the following day. One message stated that according to a newly issued ministry directive, all Riyadh campuses would welcome students back on campus, reversing the prior announcement of a week-long shutdown.

The initial decision to close schools had generated confusion among families in Riyadh, who were caught off guard by the late-hour notifications. Several parents expressed frustration over the short notice and the inconsistency in communication. “Both announcements came late at night. It was very confusing for parents and kids. We weren’t prepared for Monday and the kids slept late thinking school would be online,” said one parent who spoke on condition of anonymity. Another parent questioned the swift reversal, asking, “What changed their minds so fast?”

The developments occurred amid ongoing regional tensions, with Saudi Arabia frequently targeted by missile and drone attacks from the Iran-aligned Houthi movement in Yemen. While no direct link has been confirmed between the school closures and security concerns, the volatile Gulf security environment has previously influenced government decisions affecting public operations and safety.

As Riyadh returns to routine schooling, authorities have yet to offer further clarification on the reasons behind the sudden policy shift. Parents and educators remain attentive for any additional announcements that could affect school operations in the coming days.