UAE School Calendar 2026-2029: Key Details and Exceptions

Feb 24, 2026

84 min

Feb 24, 2026 08:30

UAE school calendar 2026–2029: Holidays, key exceptions explained

## Overview of the New Calendar

The UAE Ministry of Education has released a three-year academic calendar for 2026 to 2029, aiming to provide a stable schedule for school holidays while allowing some flexibility. This calendar applies to all public schools and most private institutions, balancing instructional time with quality learning and social needs.

## Key Holiday Patterns

The academic year will consistently start in late August, with a mid-term break in October. A winter break will occur in mid-December, lasting about three weeks, and a shorter spring break will take place between late March and early April. The school year will conclude in late June or early July.

## Regular Breaks

Families can expect breaks approximately every six to eight weeks, facilitating travel and family visits. The winter break remains the longest, ideal for extended trips and gatherings.

## Spring and Mid-Term Adjustments

Spring break will be a one-week holiday, slightly earlier each year. After this, students will face the longest uninterrupted period until summer, requiring careful planning for activities.

The Ministry mandates a mid-term break in the first semester, but private schools not following the Ministry's curriculum may split this break between October and February, provided it doesn't exceed five school days.

## Exemptions and Special Cases

Private schools in Sharjah will follow their own regulatory framework, and families should verify dates directly with schools. Schools with Indian, Bangladeshi, or Pakistani curricula are also exempt from this calendar, potentially having different start and end dates.

## Planning and Flexibility

The calendar aims to offer predictability while allowing some flexibility for schools. Parents are encouraged to check individual school calendars to ensure alignment with travel plans and holiday opportunities.

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