UAE Announces Ramadan Rules And Schedule For Schools
Ramadan begins on 23rd March in the United Arab Emirates, and the first fast will last more than 13 hours. Offices and schools also make some changes during the holy month to make it easier for people to fast.
The Spring and New Year holidays also coincide with the first 2 weeks of Ramadan. This allows everyone to use their time in the service.
To meet the needs of fasting students and staff, schools will make the following 9 changes:
| Change | Description |
| Shorter School Hours | Schools will have a maximum of 5 hours a day, starting from 8 AM to 1 PM. Break and lunch times will be shortened. |
| No Swimming Lessons | Swimming lessons won’t be held. |
| Physical Education (PE) Lessons | Fasting students don’t have to participate in PE lessons. |
| Theoretical Music Lessons | Music lessons will focus on theory rather than practice. |
| Curtains Around Canteen | The school canteen will be covered with curtains to ensure that fasting students don’t see someone eating. |
| Shaded Areas for Parents | Parents will be provided with shaded areas or spare rooms where they can wait. |
| Indoor Spaces for Fasting | Air-conditioned (AC) spaces will be provided for fasting students during break and lunch times. |
| Gentler Schooling | The school pace will be gentler, focusing on the Holy Quran and practicing charitable acts. |
| No Exams and Few Assignments | Schools usually don’t schedule internal exams or assessments during Ramadan. Ongoing assessments will continue, but the frequency may reduce. |
According to the Khaleej Times, Uptown International School principal Rob Commons said spring break would last from March 25 to April 9. During the first 2-3 days of Ramadan, students benefit from reduced hours followed by 2 weeks of vacation.
Also Read: When Does Ramadan 2023 Start in Saudi Arabia?