Last Updated on: 25th January 2025, 09:38 am
Planning your year becomes much smoother when you have the school holidays marked in advance. In the UAE, the Ministry of Education (MoE) oversees the academic calendar to maintain a consistent schedule across schools. Here’s an updated look at the school holidays and term dates for 2025 and 2026, along with a glimpse into the academic structure and public holidays.
Academic Calendars for 2025 and 2026
2024-2025 School Calendar
| Event | Start Date | End Date | Day(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Day of School | August 26, 2024 | Monday | |
| Winter Holidays | December 16, 2024 | January 5, 2025 | Monday to Sunday |
| Spring Holidays | March 24, 2025 | April 13, 2025 | Monday to Sunday |
2025-2026 School Calendar
| Event | Start Date | End Date | Day of the Week |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Day of School | August 25, 2025 | Monday | |
| Winter Holidays | December 15, 2025 | January 4, 2026 | Monday to Sunday |
| Spring Holidays | March 23, 2026 | April 12, 2026 | Monday to Sunday |
These dates help families plan trips and activities while ensuring academic commitments are met.
For the original release of the 2025-2026 approved calendars, please visit moe.gov.ae.
Check Also, UAE Schools Announce February Holidays
School Systems and Holiday Schedules
The UAE’s diverse school systems reflect its multicultural community, including Emirati, Indian, Pakistani, American, and British curricula. While some variations in holiday dates exist, schools must meet a minimum of 182 academic days per year as required by the MoE.
April-Start Schools
- Sessions run from April 1 to March the following year.
- Summer breaks are typically from early July to late August.
- Winter and spring holidays are generally aligned with the MoE calendar.
- Terms: April-June, August-December, January-March.
September-Start Schools
- These schools follow an international academic timeline, starting in late August and ending in late June.
- Terms: August-December, January-March, April-June.
- Winter and spring holidays align closely with MoE guidelines, ensuring cultural and religious events are considered.
Public Holidays for 2025
Public holidays provide additional breaks for students and families to relax and celebrate. Schools communicate these dates once confirmed by the federal government. Key holidays for 2025 include:
| Holiday | Date(s) |
|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 |
| Eid Al Fitr | March 31 to April 2 |
| Arafat Day | May 30 |
| Eid Al Adha | May 31 to June 2 |
| Hijri New Year | July 29 |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday | September 27 |
| UAE National Day | December 2-3 |
These holidays reflect the UAE’s rich traditions, giving families time to celebrate together.
Planning Ahead
Knowing the school calendar allows parents to organize vacations, extracurricular activities, and academic goals efficiently. The structure ensures students have a balance of study and downtime. Save this guide to stay informed and make the most of the upcoming school year.
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