Eid Al Adha Break, UAE Schools Confirm Holiday Plans and Flexibility

As the UAE approaches Eid al Adha in May, school leaders have confirmed that academic calendars will remain largely unchanged, with limited flexibility available within existing guidelines.

The clarification comes amid growing questions from parents and students about whether this year’s Eid break could be extended. Education authorities and school leaders say institutions are balancing cultural observance with academic continuity and recovery.

How the System Works

Explaining how schools manage flexibility, Pramod Mahajan, principal of Sharjah Indian School, said institutions can adjust schedules within approved limits.

“Principals can grant up to three additional days of leave at their discretion. For instance, if official Eid holidays fall from Monday to Wednesday, and since the weekend in Sharjah includes Friday, Saturday and Sunday, then Thursday may be declared a holiday to create a full week’s break provided SPEA (Sharjah Private Education Authority) is informed,” he said.

He stressed that any flexibility must be balanced with maintaining academic progress.

“Avoiding learning gaps is essential. Schools may need to introduce compensatory measures such as Saturday classes or slightly extended school hours, subject to prior approval from SPEA.”

Focus on Wellbeing and Academic Continuity

International schools say they do not expect major changes to their calendars, while recognising the importance of Eid for families across the country.

At Nord Anglia International School Dubai, Principal Kenny Duncan highlighted the cultural significance of the holiday.

“We do not expect any changes or adjustments to be made to the academic calendar around these dates. We must view Eid as an important cultural and religious opportunity for reflection, celebration, and to be thankful for the unity we have shared across the UAE during these challenging times.”

He added that student wellbeing and learning continuity remain key priorities.

“For the vast majority of our students their learning has continued without significant disruption or pause thanks to the exceptional work of our highly professional and experienced teaching staff, and the high quality of our online provision. Our prime focus now is on a careful assessment of what each child needs in order to secure their successful return to school, ensuring they feel safe, protected, valued, and encouraged in all that they do.”

Duncan also emphasised the importance of emotional readiness alongside academic progress.

“The entire (school) team is committed to supporting each child through their transition back into school and the successful resumption of in-person teaching and learning for the remainder of the academic term. Currently, there is a significant focus on each child’s welfare, wellbeing, and psychological health, alongside their ongoing academic progress. We feel we have ample time to re-establish each child’s individual learning journey before we enter the Eid holiday period in May.”

Exam Readiness and Structured Revision in Focus

For schools with examination cohorts, particularly those following Indian curricula, the focus remains on preparation and minimising learning gaps.

At Shining Star International School, Principal Abhilasha Singh said academic readiness is a priority.

“At our school, the emphasis has been on prioritizing core learning outcomes, strengthening exam readiness for Class 10 students, many of whom would be sitting for the second phase of board examinations between May 15 and June 1.”

She added that structured revision and digital tools are supporting continuity.

“This is being done through structured revision plans, and leveraging data-driven instruction to address learning gaps. Additionally, we are ensuring continuity through digital platforms, guided assignments, and reinforcement strategies during the holiday period, where appropriate.”

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