The UAE has confirmed the academic calendar for the 2025–2026 school year, setting unified dates for public and private schools that follow the Ministry of Education curriculum. The changes include a longer winter holiday and three mid-term breaks, creating a more balanced schedule between study periods and rest time.
For families in Dubai, this clarity allows for early planning around work schedules, family trips, and community activities.
Key Term Dates and Breaks
The school year will begin on 25 August 2025, with the first term running until early December.
Term 1
- Start: 25 August 2025
- Mid-Term Break: 13–19 October 2025
- Winter Break: 8 December 2025 – 4 January 2026
Term 2
- Start: 5 January 2026
- Mid-Term Break: 11–15 February 2026
- Spring Break: 16–29 March 2026 (Sharjah private schools resume on 23 March)
Term 3
- Start: 30 March 2026
- Mid-Term Break: 25–31 May 2026 (coinciding with Eid Al Adha)
- End of School Year: 3 July 2026 (Sharjah private schools finish on 2 July)
The four-week winter break is one of the most notable changes, giving families more time together during the cooler season, which also overlaps with major events and holidays in the UAE. Mid-term breaks placed in October, February, and May aim to help students recharge and maintain focus throughout the year.
Dubai’s private schools under the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) will follow this calendar while ensuring the minimum requirement of 182 school days is met. International curriculum schools may adjust slightly but must align with the key holiday dates.
Benefits Beyond the Classroom
This revised calendar is expected to benefit more than just students.
- Parents can plan travel and childcare more efficiently.
- Employers may find it easier to coordinate leave requests.
- Tourism operators could see increased local travel during these extended breaks.
It also supports the country’s broader vision to promote family time and community engagement.
Quick Reference: Academic Year 2025–2026
| Event | Date(s) |
|---|---|
| Academic Year Starts | 25 Aug 2025 |
| Mid-Term 1 | 13–19 Oct 2025 |
| Winter Break | 8 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026 |
| Term 2 Starts | 5 Jan 2026 |
| Mid-Term 2 | 11–15 Feb 2026 |
| Spring Break | 16–29 Mar 2026 |
| Term 3 Starts | 30 Mar 2026 |
| Mid-Term 3 | 25–31 May 2026 |
| Academic Year Ends | 3 Jul 2026 |
Planning Ahead
Parents are encouraged to:
- Mark important dates early.
- Confirm specific schedules with their child’s school.
- Align work leave and travel bookings with the holiday periods.
With the full year mapped out, families in Dubai can make the most of both school time and downtime.
Read More:
- Abu Dhabi, Al Ain announce partial road closures in mid-August – Social Kandura
- Dubai’s Taxi Sector Records Strong Growth in Early 2025 – Social Kandura
Stay connected with Social Kandura for the latest updates on local news, events, and family activities across Dubai and the UAE.
