Dubai Confirms Official School Timings for Ramadan

Parents, Here’s What You Need to Know

Dubai’s education regulator has officially confirmed school timings for the Holy Month of Ramadan, giving parents clarity as families prepare to balance learning, worship and daily routines.

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) announced that all private schools in Dubai must adjust their regular schedules during Ramadan. The move is designed to ensure students and staff experience a balanced academic environment while observing the spiritual significance of the month.

For many households, Ramadan brings changes to sleep patterns, meal times and daily responsibilities. The new school guidelines aim to support families through this important period.

Official Ramadan School Timings in Dubai

The KHDA has directed that the school day for private schools must not exceed five hours during Ramadan. This applies to all students across year groups.

Schools have also been instructed to consider parents’ feedback when deciding exact start and finish times. While the authority has set the maximum daily duration, individual schools will communicate their own specific schedules directly to families.

Parents are advised to check official communication channels from their child’s school for precise timings.

Key Points for Parents

• The school day must not exceed five hours
• Start and end times may vary by school
• Schools must consider parental feedback when setting hours
• Exact schedules will be confirmed by each school

This flexibility allows schools to tailor their approach while staying within the KHDA framework.

Friday Dismissal Time During Ramadan

Fridays will have a shorter schedule to accommodate Jumu’ah (Friday) prayers.

All private schools must finish by 11.30am on Fridays during Ramadan. This ensures that students and staff have enough time to prepare for and attend prayers.

For working parents, this may require adjustments to childcare arrangements. Schools are expected to communicate clearly about early dismissal logistics.

Exemption from Physical Education for Fasting Students

Recognising the physical demands of fasting, the KHDA has confirmed that students who are fasting are not required to participate in physical education classes during Ramadan.

This exemption is particularly important for older students who may be observing full-day fasting. Schools are expected to manage this sensitively and provide appropriate alternatives where necessary.

Younger children who are not fasting may continue participating in physical activities as guided by their schools.

KHDA’s Commitment to Balanced Learning

In its official statement, the KHDA emphasised its commitment to maintaining high-quality education while respecting the spirit of Ramadan.

The authority stated that the guidelines aim to create a learning experience aligned with the values of the Holy Month. By shortening the school day and easing physical requirements, the regulator hopes to ensure students remain focused, comfortable and supported.

Ramadan is a time of reflection, compassion and community. Schools across Dubai are encouraged to incorporate these themes into daily activities and classroom discussions.

When Is Ramadan Expected to Begin?

Astronomical forecasts provide an early indication of when Ramadan may start, though the final confirmation depends on the sighting of the crescent moon.

According to the International Astronomy Centre, it will be impossible to sight the Ramadan crescent moon on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, which corresponds to the 29th day of Shaban in the Islamic Hijri calendar.

In the Hijri calendar, a new month begins with the sighting of the crescent moon. If the moon cannot be seen on February 17, an additional day will complete the month of Shaban.

This would mean that Ramadan is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

However, as with all Islamic months, the official start date will be confirmed by UAE authorities following moon-sighting announcements.

How Ramadan Changes Daily Life in Dubai

Ramadan significantly reshapes daily routines across the UAE. Working hours are typically reduced, and many businesses adjust their schedules.

For families with school-aged children, mornings can feel earlier and evenings later due to suhoor and iftar timings. Shortened school days help students maintain energy levels while staying engaged academically.

Parents often use the month as an opportunity to teach children about patience, gratitude and generosity. Schools may also host charitable initiatives, cultural activities and awareness sessions to deepen students’ understanding of Ramadan’s meaning.

What Parents Should Do Next

If you are a parent in Dubai, here are the practical steps to take:

Wait for official communication from your child’s school regarding exact start and end times.
Plan transportation and childcare arrangements around the reduced hours, especially on Fridays.
Discuss fasting expectations with your child and inform the school if they will be observing.
Adjust sleep schedules gradually in preparation for Ramadan routines.

Clear communication between schools and families will be essential to ensure a smooth transition.

A Month of Reflection and Routine Adjustment

Ramadan is one of the most significant periods in the Islamic calendar, and Dubai’s education sector plays an important role in supporting students during this time.

By limiting the school day to five hours, allowing early Friday dismissals and offering exemptions from physical education for fasting students, the KHDA aims to balance academic continuity with spiritual wellbeing.

As Ramadan approaches, parents across Dubai can feel reassured that clear guidelines are in place. With thoughtful planning and cooperation between schools and families, students can continue learning effectively while embracing the spirit of the Holy Month.

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