With the approval of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has announced a new unified school calendar for all public and private schools across the UAE, effective from the 2025-2026 academic year.
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The revised calendar sets standardised dates for the beginning and end of the academic year, the conclusion of each term, and term breaks. It will be implemented nationwide across all schools, regardless of curriculum, a WAM report said.
According to the ministry, the changes are designed to enhance family cohesion and create a more balanced learning environment in alignment with the goals of the “Year of Community.”
Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education, said the calendar represents a qualitative shift in managing the academic year. “This unified calendar is part of our national approach to achieving the goals of the ‘Year of Community’ by fostering a socially connected and balanced educational ecosystem,” she said.
She added that consistent holiday dates will also help cultural, tourism, and community organisations align their activities with the academic calendar, reinforcing the connection between education and broader society.
Term dates and holiday breaks announced
The academic year will begin on August 25, 2025, with the first term ending on December 7, 2025. Students will then enjoy a four-week winter break from December 8, 2025 to January 4, 2026, resuming classes on January 5, 2026.
The second term runs from January 5 to March 15, 2026, followed by a two-week spring break from March 16 to 29, 2026. Classes will resume on March 30, except for private schools in Sharjah, where the term resumes on March 23.
The third term will begin on March 30 and conclude on July 3, 2026, with Sharjah schools ending one day earlier on July 2. The schedule is designed to provide a balanced academic year that supports student learning and overall well-being.
Mid-term breaks and flexibility for private schools
The updated calendar also introduces mid-term breaks for public and private schools following the government curriculum. These short breaks are intended to reduce academic pressure and promote student wellness.
- The first mid-term break is scheduled for October 13–19, 2025, during the longest academic term.
- The second break will take place from February 11–15, 2026, offering students a pause during the winter term.
- A third break is planned for May 25–31, 2026, aligning with the Eid Al Adha holiday.
Private schools not following the national curriculum are allowed to schedule their own October and February breaks, provided each does not exceed five consecutive days and remains within the designated months. These schools are required to align with the national calendar while accommodating their operational needs.
The ministry emphasised that all schools must adhere to the approved calendar, including administering final assessments and completing curriculum requirements in the final week of each term. Exceptions apply only to students taking pre-scheduled international exams.
Additionally, private schools following the government curriculum must comply with the centralised test calendar used in public schools.
