As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, teachers and administrators across the UAE are carefully managing exam durations, spacing between papers, and supervision schedules to minimise fatigue for fasting students.
However, some internal assessments and board exams may still overlap with the fasting period. Expected to begin around February 19, subject to moon sighting, Ramadan is overlapping with the CBSE board exams starting February 17 and the ISC/ICSE tests scheduled for February 12 and 17 for Classes 12 and 10, respectively.
Deepika Thapar Singh, CEO-Principal of Credence High School, said,
“Exam durations, spacing between papers, and staff supervision are carefully managed to ensure fairness and minimise fatigue for fasting students. All Ramadan-specific timetable and assessment adjustments are communicated well in advance through official school channels, ensuring transparency, reducing stress, and helping families plan effectively during the holy month.”
Principals highlight that a significant level of planning is involved in balancing academic requirements with students’ wellbeing during fasting.
Internal Exams Usually Avoided During Ramadan
Schools across the UAE are increasingly adjusting academic calendars to avoid placing additional pressure on fasting students. Michelle Thomas, Principal/CEO of GEMS Al Barsha National School, said,
“We are mindful of student wellbeing and fairness during Ramadan. As the majority of students are fasting, internal exams are generally not scheduled during this period. This ensures that students are not disadvantaged and can observe Ramadan comfortably without the added pressure of assessments.”
When assessments cannot be avoided, schools adopt lighter testing formats to ensure students can perform to the best of their abilities while respecting fasting commitments.
“The school sends detailed circulars or emails to parents, updates students during assemblies or tutor time, and posts information on official communication platforms.”
Thomas explained that this transparent communication ensures that parents and students remain informed about revised schedules, exam plans, and wellbeing measures, helping to reduce stress throughout Ramadan.
Additional Learning Support Introduced
Some schools are introducing flexible learning solutions to support students during the fasting period. Lisa Johnson, Principal, American Academy for Girls, said her school provides additional learning support during Ramadan.
“To support student wellbeing, we intentionally design our academic calendar so that major internal examinations do not fall during Ramadan. In addition, we provide recorded learning videos so students can review lessons at home after breaking their fast, when they are more comfortable and hydrated.”
She added that timely communication with parents helps families plan and ensures minimal stress for students.
Flexible Assessment Approaches Across Emirates
Schools in other emirates are also prioritising student wellbeing by adjusting learning activities and assessment timings. In Ajman, Woodlem British School continues to follow UAE regulations while implementing additional supportive measures. Principal Natalia Svetenok said,
“Our main focus is the happiness and satisfaction of the students, and we comply with UAE regulations regarding the organisation of Ramadan in our school. We reduce the number of activities that require a lot of energy and slow down the learning process. Internal school evaluations are done earlier in the day if needed, and the time and schedule for the evaluation are flexible. Communication with parents ensures that everyone is informed and that they feel a sense of calm and respect during Ramadan.”
These measures highlight how schools across the UAE are working collaboratively to maintain academic continuity while respecting the physical and spiritual demands of the holy month.
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