All schools and higher education institutions in the UAE will close for four weeks from Sunday as a precautionary measure as six new cases of coronavirus were reported in the country.

The six individuals include two Russians, two Italians, one German and one Colombian — all connected to the previous cases associated with the UAE Tour cycling event.

"The Education Ministry announces early start of spring vacation for schools," state news agency Wam tweeted late on Tuesday.

Spring break, which was due to begin on March 15, will now begin on March 8 and last for four weeks instead of the originally planned three.

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