The UAE Ministry of Education has announced the official academic calendar for the 2025–2026 school year, introducing a four-week winter break for all public and private schools. Starting on December 8, 2025, and ending on January 4, 2026, the extended break allows students and families ample time to rest, travel, and participate in recreational and cultural activities.
Dubai, UAE : The UAE Ministry of Education has announced a unified academic calendar for the 2025–2026 school year, introducing a four-week winter break for all public and private schools across the country. This extended holiday period aims to provide students and families ample time to rest, travel, and engage in recreational activities.
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According to the official calendar, the winter break will commence on December 8, 2025, and conclude on January 4, 2026, with classes resuming on January 5, 2026. This schedule applies to schools following the September-to-June academic calendar, offering a nearly month-long respite for students. The extended break is designed to enhance students' well-being and provide families with the opportunity to plan vacations and spend quality time together.
Dubai's private schools, regulated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), observe a slightly different schedule based on their curriculum and academic year structure. Schools operating under the Indian curriculum system, which typically begin their academic year in April, will commence their winter break on December 15, 2025. In contrast, private schools in Dubai that follow the September-start calendar will begin their winter holidays on December 8, 2025, aligning with the national schedule.
The Ministry of Education has emphasized the importance of adhering to the approved calendar dates across all educational institutions. Schools are required to complete their first-term assessments and fulfill curriculum obligations during the final week before the break begins. This ensures that students remain engaged in their studies up until the vacation period starts, maintaining academic continuity and preventing any loss of learning momentum.
Educational institutions are also encouraged to organize enrichment activities during the break, such as workshops, cultural programs, and community service initiatives, to keep students engaged and promote holistic development.
The new academic calendar aligns major religious and public holidays with scheduled breaks to provide students with extended time off. For instance, the winter break coincides with New Year's Day, allowing families to celebrate the occasion without conflicting academic commitments. Similarly, the spring break is scheduled to align with Eid Al Fitr, ensuring students have time to observe the religious festivities.
This alignment reflects the UAE's commitment to accommodating cultural and religious practices within the educational framework, fostering an inclusive environment for all students.
The introduction of a four-week winter break offers several benefits for students and families. Extended time off allows students to recharge and return to school with renewed focus and energy, potentially leading to improved academic performance. It also provides families with the opportunity to plan vacations, visit relatives, or participate in community activities, contributing to stronger familial bonds and enhanced social well-being.
Furthermore, the extended break supports mental health by reducing stress and preventing burnout, which is particularly important during the mid-academic year period. By promoting a balanced approach to education and leisure, the UAE aims to cultivate well-rounded individuals equipped to thrive in various aspects of life.
As the 2025–2026 academic year approaches, schools are preparing to implement the new calendar and ensure a smooth transition for students and staff. Teachers are updating curricula to accommodate the extended break, while administrative staff are coordinating logistics to manage the revised schedule effectively.
Parents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the updated school calendar and plan accordingly. This includes arranging travel plans, scheduling family events, and preparing for the resumption of classes in January. By staying informed and proactive, families can make the most of the extended winter break and support their children's educational journey.
The introduction of a four-week winter break represents a significant shift in the UAE's educational landscape, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of work-life balance and student well-being. As the country continues to evolve its educational policies, similar initiatives may be considered to further enhance the learning experience and support the holistic development of students.
For the latest updates and detailed information on the 2025–2026 school calendar, parents and students are advised to consult their respective schools and official educational authorities. Staying informed will ensure a seamless academic experience and allow families to make the most of the upcoming winter break.
