UAE: Schools signal four-week winter break

Abu Dhabi: Schools across the UAE have begun notifying families of the winter break months in advance, allowing parents to plan holidays without interrupting students’ lessons.

The Ministry of Education (MoE) and other education regulators approved the 2025–2026 academic calendar before the school year began. The new year started in April for Asian curriculum schools and in September for international curriculum schools.

According to the approved calendar, the first term will conclude with a four-week winter break, extended from the previous three weeks. The holiday will run from December 8, 2025, to January 4, 2026, with classes resuming on January 5.

The longer break is intended to give students additional rest after a demanding term and to encourage participation in national and community activities.

Schools have reminded parents that while family time is valued, travel plans should remain within the official break dates unless an emergency requires otherwise.