Impact of Middle East Conflict on Indian Education and Examinations

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is causing significant disruptions in the Indian education system, particularly affecting the scheduling of important examinations like CBSE Class 12, CUET, JEE Main, and NEET UG. With the Central Board of Secondary Education postponing exams in certain regions, concerns are rising among parents and students about the potential impact on the academic year. This article delves into the examination centers established in the Middle East and the implications for students amidst the ongoing unrest.

By Ambika Singh Mar 16, 2026, 10:46 IST

Effects of Ongoing Conflict on Education

The ongoing tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States are starting to show significant effects across various nations in the Middle East. As a result, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has opted to delay the Class 12 board examinations in specific Middle Eastern countries. This situation is also beginning to influence India's educational framework and examination timelines.

In light of the CBSE's decision to postpone exams in the Middle East, there are growing discussions about how to effectively conduct entrance exams like CUET, JEE Main, and NEET UG in these regions amid the current unrest.

Many parents in India are expressing concerns that this turmoil could disrupt the entire academic year. Let's delve into the specifics of this situation.

CUET UG Examination Centers in the Middle East

Examination centers for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET UG) and CUET PG have been set up in various cities throughout the Middle East. Key locations include Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah in the UAE. Other designated centers are in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Doha (Qatar), Kuwait City, Manama (Bahrain), and Muscat (Oman), where a considerable number of students participate in these exams.

International Centers for CUET PG

Several cities in the Middle East have also been chosen as examination centers for CUET PG 2026. The exams are planned to take place in Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi (UAE), along with locations in Saudi Arabia, Doha (Qatar), Kuwait City, Manama (Bahrain), and Muscat (Oman). If regional tensions continue, the execution of these examinations may face challenges.

Potential Impact on JEE Main and NEET UG

Engineering and medical entrance exams are also held in this region. For the second session of JEE Main 2026, cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Muscat, Riyadh, and Manama have been selected as examination centers. Similarly, NEET UG 2026 will have centers in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Muscat, Manama, Riyadh, and Kuwait City.

Growing Concerns Among Students and Parents

The escalating situation in the Middle East has increased anxiety levels among students and their families. If conditions do not improve soon, several examination dates may need to be adjusted. However, no final decisions have been made by the relevant authorities regarding these exams. Officials are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.