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August 27, 2024

UAE School Holidays 2024-25: What Every Parent Needs to Know

Last Updated: April 13, 2025

UAE's diverse and multicultural population has led to a variety of school systems, each with its unique calendar. Understanding the UAE school holidays for the 2024-25 academic year is crucial for planning family activities, vacations, and ensuring your child’s education is uninterrupted.

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This blog will explore the key holiday dates, term start and end times, and important guidelines, offering you a comprehensive guide to navigate the school year in the UAE smoothly.

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1. Overview of UAE School Holidays 2024-25

The academic calendar for 2024-25 in UAE offers a balanced mix of school days and holidays, allowing students to rest and recharge while meeting educational requirements. The UAE government, through the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), mandates that all private schools adhere to a minimum of 182 school days per academic year.

Key Academic Dates:

  • April-Start Schools: Begin on April 1, 2024, and end in March 2025.

  • September-Start Schools: Begin on August 26, 2024, and conclude on June 27, 2025.

Holiday Breaks:

  • Winter Break: December 16, 2024 - January 6, 2025

  • Spring Break: March 24 - April 7, 2025

  • Summer Break: Starts July 1, 2024 (for April-start schools) and extends until August 26, 2024.

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2. Term Start and End Dates for April-Start Schools

April-start schools in UAE follow a distinct academic calendar that spans from April 2024 to March 2025. This schedule aligns with the educational guidelines set by the KHDA, ensuring a structured academic year for students.

Key Dates for April-Start Schools:

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Breaks and Holidays:

  • Summer Break: Begins July 1, 2024

  • Winter Break: December 16, 2024 - January 6, 2025

  • Spring Break: March 24 - April 7, 2025

Important Notes:

  • Schools starting in April have flexibility in choosing their closing date within March 2025, as long as they meet the 182-day requirement.

  • Public holidays, such as Eid and National Day, are also factored into the schedule, providing additional days off.

3. Key Holiday Breaks for September-Start Schools

Schools that commence their academic year in September follow a calendar that’s closely aligned with international standards, making it easier for expatriate families to plan around familiar dates.

Key Dates for September-Start Schools:

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Breaks and Holidays:

  • Winter Break: December 16, 2024 - January 6, 2025

  • Spring Break: March 24 - April 7, 2025

  • Summer Break: Post June 27, 2025

Public Holiday Considerations:

  • September-start schools observe the same public holidays as April-start schools.

  • The academic calendar is designed to ensure minimal disruption during key cultural and religious events, allowing students and teachers to fully participate in these celebrations.

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4. Public Holidays and Their Impact on School Schedules

Public holidays play a significant role in the UAE school calendar, providing additional days off that align with important cultural and religious events.

Upcoming UAE Holidays in 2024:

Upcoming UAE Holidays in 2025:

  • January 1: New Year’s Day

  • March 30-April 1: Eid Al Fitr (dates to be confirmed)

  • June 5: Arafat Day

  • June 6-8: Eid Al Adha

  • June 26: Islamic New Year

  • September 4: Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday

  • December 2-3: UAE National Day

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Impact on School Schedules:

  • These public holidays often result in extended weekends, giving students extra time to rest and engage in family activities.

  • Schools are required to inform parents of these holidays well in advance, with final dates confirmed by the Federal Government.

5. Understanding the Summer Break for UAE Schools

The summer break is the longest holiday in the academic calendar and is highly anticipated by students and families. Given the extreme heat in UAE during the summer months, this break is a popular time for travel.

Duration of the Summer Break:

  • April-Start Schools: July 1, 2024 - August 26, 2024

  • September-Start Schools: Begins post June 27, 2025

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Popular Activities During Summer Break:

  • Travel: Many families choose to travel abroad to escape the heat, visiting cooler climates or exploring new destinations.

  • Indoor Activities: For those staying in UAE, indoor attractions such as shopping malls, museums, and entertainment centers offer a respite from the summer sun.

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Planning Tips:

  • Early planning is crucial to secure travel bookings and summer camp enrollments.

  • Engaging children in educational activities during the break can help maintain their learning momentum.

6. Spring Break: A Refreshing Pause in the School Year

Spring break offers a mid-year pause that’s perfectly timed for relaxation and preparation before the final stretch of the academic year.

Spring Break Dates:

  • March 24 - April 7, 2025 for both April and September-start schools

Activities During Spring Break:

  • Outdoor Adventures: With pleasant weather, spring break is ideal for outdoor activities such as picnics, beach outings, and park visits.

  • Educational Camps: Many parents opt to enroll their children in short educational camps that offer a mix of learning and fun.

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Making the Most of Spring Break:

  • This period is also a good time for students to catch up on schoolwork or explore new hobbies.

  • Families should consider using this break to bond and create lasting memories through shared activities.

7. Flexible School Closures and Important Guidelines

The KHDA allows a degree of flexibility in the academic calendar, particularly for schools that start in April. However, there are important guidelines that schools must follow.

KHDA Guidelines for School Closures:

  • Schools must fulfill a minimum of 182 school days in an academic year.

  • Any changes to the calendar, such as early closures, require approval from the KHDA.

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Flexibility in Closure Dates:

  • April-start schools have the option to close on any day in March 2025, provided they meet the mandatory school days.

  • This flexibility allows schools to adjust their schedules based on their specific needs while ensuring educational standards are maintained.

Communication with Parents:

  • Schools must communicate any calendar changes to parents in a timely manner to avoid confusion and ensure smooth planning.

  • Parents are advised to stay in touch with their child’s school to stay updated on any potential changes to the academic calendar.

8. Conclusion

Navigating the UAE school holidays for the 2024-25 academic year is essential for every parent, student, and teacher. The academic calendar offers a well-balanced mix of study and leisure, ensuring students have ample time to rest and recharge. By staying informed and planning ahead, you can make the most of these holidays, whether through travel, cultural activities, or simply spending quality time with your family. Stay connected with your child’s school and the KHDA to ensure you have the latest updates on any changes to the school schedule.

Summary

The 2024-25 academic year in Dubai presents a well-structured and balanced school calendar, meticulously designed to cater to the educational needs of students while ensuring they have ample opportunities for rest and recreation. Understanding the key dates and holiday breaks is crucial for parents, students, and teachers to plan effectively. Below is a detailed summary that includes lists and tables to provide clarity on the Dubai school holidays for the 2024-25 academic year.

Two Primary Academic Calendars

Schools in Dubai city operate on two main academic calendars: one starting in April and another in September. Each calendar has its distinct structure and timeline, ensuring that all students receive a comprehensive education.

  • Start Date: April 1, 2024

  • End Date: March 2025

  • Summer Break: July 1, 2024 - August 26, 2024

  • Start Date: August 26, 2024

  • End Date: June 27, 2025 (at the earliest)

  • Summer Break: Post June 27, 2025

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Important Breaks During the Academic Year

Both calendars include significant breaks that provide students with much-needed time off. These breaks are strategically placed to ensure students can rest and recharge during the academic year.

  • Dates: December 16, 2024 - January 6, 2025

  • Duration: 3 weeks

  • Purpose: A time for families to enjoy the festive season and relax after the first term.

  • Dates: March 24, 2025 - April 7, 2025

  • Duration: 2 weeks

  • Purpose: Allows students to take a pause before the final stretch of the academic year, with the option to engage in outdoor activities or educational camps.

  • April-Start Schools: July 1, 2024 - August 26, 2024

  • September-Start Schools: Begins after June 27, 2025

Public Holidays and Their Impact on the School Calendar

Public holidays play a vital role in the school year, providing additional days off that align with important cultural and religious events. The UAE government, through the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), ensures that these holidays are incorporated into the school calendar.

Key Public Holidays for 2024-2025:

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These holidays often lead to extended weekends, giving students extra time to rest. Schools are required to inform parents about these holidays well in advance, with exact dates confirmed by the Federal Government closer to the event.

Adherence to KHDA Regulations

The KHDA mandates that all private schools in Dubai must adhere to a minimum of 182 school days per academic year. This regulation ensures that students across different curricula (IB, American, British, CBSE) receive consistent and high-quality education, regardless of when their school year begins.

  • Minimum School Days: 182 per academic year

  • Flexibility: April-start schools may choose to close any day in March 2025, provided they meet the mandatory school days.

  • Approval: Any deviations from the standard calendar must receive approval from the KHDA.

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The Importance of Summer Break

The summer break is one of the most anticipated holidays of the school year, providing students and families with an extended period to relax and enjoy time together. The Ministry of Education (MOE) regulations mandate that summer breaks should not exceed 8.2 weeks to ensure students remain engaged with their studies.

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  • Duration: Up to 8.2 weeks

  • MOE Regulation: Ensures that summer vacations are long enough for rest but not so long that students lose touch with their studies.

  • Activities: Many families choose to travel abroad during this time, while others may engage in indoor activities within Dubai, such as visiting malls, museums, and entertainment centers.

  • Travel: Escaping the summer heat by traveling to cooler climates.

  • Indoor Attractions: Exploring Dubai’s vast array of indoor activities, including shopping malls, museums, and themed entertainment centers.

  • Educational Camps: Participating in summer camps that combine fun and learning.

Making the Most of Spring Break

Spring break is another critical period in the academic year, providing a short but valuable pause before the final exams and year-end activities. This break is ideal for both relaxation and preparation.

  • Outdoor Adventures: Taking advantage of Dubai’s pleasant weather during spring, families can enjoy outdoor activities like picnics, beach outings, and park visits.

  • Educational Engagement: Students can use this time to catch up on schoolwork, explore new hobbies, or participate in short educational camps that offer a mix of learning and fun.

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Flexibility and Communication with Parents

One of the key advantages of the Dubai school system is the flexibility allowed to schools, particularly those starting in April. However, this flexibility comes with the responsibility of clear communication to ensure parents are well-informed.

  • April-Start Schools: Can choose to close on any day in March 2025, provided they meet the required number of school days.

  • Communication: Schools must inform parents of any changes to the academic calendar well in advance to allow for smooth planning.

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  • Stay Updated: Parents should stay connected with their child’s school to receive the latest updates on the academic calendar.

  • Plan Ahead: Early planning for holidays and school breaks ensures that families can make the most of these periods without disruption.

Final Thoughts

The 2024-25 school calendar in Dubai is a well-thought-out schedule that balances education with ample opportunities for rest and cultural engagement. Whether your child is in an April-start or September-start school, understanding these key dates and breaks is essential for smooth planning throughout the academic year. By staying informed and proactive, parents can ensure their children have a successful and enjoyable school year while also making the most of the diverse cultural experiences that Dubai has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on UAE school holidays for the 2024-25

When does school start in UAE 2024 PDF?Schools in the UAE that begin in September will start their academic year on August 26, 2024. For schools that start in April, the academic year will commence on April 1, 2024. The UAE government has structured these start dates to ensure a balanced educational schedule.

School calendar until 2025The school calendar for the 2024-2025 academic year includes important dates for both April and September-start schools. Here’s a quick look at the key periods:

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How long is summer break in UAE?

The summer break in UAE typically lasts for about 8.2 weeks, as per the Ministry of Education (MOE) regulations. For April-start schools, the break runs from July 1, 2024, to August 26, 2024, while September-start schools will have their break post-June 27, 2025.

What is the academic calendar of DPS UAE?

At DPS UAE, the academic year begins in the first week of April and concludes in the third week of March. The first term starts in early April and continues until the first week of July, after which students enjoy their summer break until the fourth week of August.

What is the school cycle in UAE?

The UAE school system is divided into several cycles:

  • Kindergarten: KG1 to KG2 (ages 4 to 5)

  • Cycle 1 (Basic Level): Grades 1 to 4 (ages 6 to 9/10)

  • Cycle 2 (Intermediate Level): Grades 5 to 8 (ages 10 to 13/14)

  • Cycle 3 (Secondary Level): Grades 9 to 12 (ages 14 to 17/18)

Grade 6 Age Placement GuideThe age placement for Grade 6 in UAE schools depends on the schooling system:

  • 13-Year System: Year 7 (Age 11-12)

  • 12-Year System: Grade 6 (Age 11-12)

What is the length of the winter break for the 2024-2025 academic year?

The winter break for the 2024-2025 academic year will run from December 16, 2024, to January 6, 2025, for both April and September-start schools. This break offers students and families a chance to relax and enjoy the festive season.

What are the important holidays during the school year 2024-2025?

Key holidays during the 2024-2025 school year include:

  • Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday: September 15, 2024

  • UAE National Day: December 2-3, 2024

  • Eid Al Fitr: March 30 - April 1, 2025 (tentative)

  • Eid Al Adha: June 6-8, 2025

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How does the spring break align with the school schedule?

The spring break for both April and September-start schools is scheduled from March 24 to April 7, 2025. This period allows students to rest before the final term of the academic year.

What flexibility do April-start schools have in closing for the academic year?

Schools that begin in April have the flexibility to close any day in March 2025, provided they meet the mandatory 182 school days and receive approval from the KHDA. This flexibility allows schools to tailor the end of their academic year to better suit their community.

What are the MOE regulations on summer breaks?

The Ministry of Education (MOE) mandates that summer breaks should not exceed 8.2 weeks. This regulation ensures that students have ample rest while still adhering to the required number of school days.

How do public holidays affect school schedules?

Public holidays like Eid and UAE National Day can extend the school breaks, providing additional rest days for students. Schools are required to tentatively inform parents of these holidays, with exact dates confirmed by the UAE government.

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What is the significance of the winter break for students?

The winter break, lasting from December 16, 2024, to January 6, 2025, is significant as it allows students to relax after the first term and recharge for the second half of the academic year.

How do April-start and September-start school calendars differ?

April-start schools typically run from April 1 to March of the following year, while September-start schools run from August 26 to June 27, 2025. This difference caters to the diverse educational systems in UAE.

What should parents know about school closures due to public holidays?

Parents should be aware that school closures for public holidays may vary, and schools will confirm these dates once they are officially declared by the Federal Government. Staying updated with school communications is essential for accurate planning.

Related Topics:

Official Academic Calendar for the UAE 2024-2025

Official CBSE School Calendar for UAE 2024-25

Official IB Academic Calendar for UAE 2024-2025

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