What To Know
- In addition to the new school calendar, the Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council has confirmed revised age cut-off rules starting from the 2026–2027 academic year.
- While some curriculum-based variations remain, the long-term structure signals a move toward greater consistency across the UAE education system.
- Education authorities may allow private schools to split mid-term breaks between October and February, provided the total break does not exceed five school days and aligns with operational requirements.
Parents, students and teachers across the country now have clarity for the next three academic years. The Ministry of Education has officially announced the UAE academic calendar covering 2026–2027, 2027–2028 and 2028–2029.
The new three-year UAE school calendar provides long-term visibility, helping families plan holidays, travel and childcare arrangements in advance.
What’s Changed in the UAE Academic Calendar?
Several key updates have been introduced across the three academic years:
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Adjusted start dates for each school year
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Winter break reduced from four weeks to three
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Updated spring break dates
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Revised mid-term break schedules
There are no fixed February mid-term dates listed. However, education authorities may allow private schools to split mid-term breaks between October and February, provided the total break does not exceed five school days and aligns with operational requirements.
These updates aim to balance structured learning with student wellbeing.
UAE Academic Year 2026–2027 Dates
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Start date: 31 August 2026
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First semester mid-term break: 12–18 October 2026
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Winter break: 14 December 2026 – 3 January 2027
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Spring break: 5–11 April 2027
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End of academic year: 2 July 2027
UAE Academic Year 2027–2028 Dates
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Start date: 30 August 2027
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First semester mid-term break: 11–17 October 2027
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Winter break: 13 December 2027 – 2 January 2028
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Spring break: 27 March – 11 April 2028
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End of academic year: 30 June 2028
UAE Academic Year 2028–2029 Dates
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Start date: 28 August 2028
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First semester mid-term break: 16–22 October 2028
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Winter break: 12 December 2028 – 1 January 2029
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Spring break: 26 March – 1 April 2029
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End of academic year: 29 June 2029
Which Schools Are Affected?
The UAE academic calendar applies to most public and private schools across the country. However, there are exceptions:
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Private schools in Sharjah are exempt and will continue under the emirate’s existing regulatory framework.
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Schools following Indian, Bangladeshi or Pakistani curricula may have different term structures, start dates and break schedules.
Parents are encouraged to confirm exact dates directly with their school.
New Age Rules for FS1 and FS2 Admissions
In addition to the new school calendar, the Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council has confirmed revised age cut-off rules starting from the 2026–2027 academic year.
The new admission cut-off date is December 31, replacing the previous August 31 deadline. This change applies to students following the British curriculum only, giving children additional time to meet the required age before enrollment.
What This Means for UAE Families
The three-year UAE academic calendar provides greater stability and predictability for families. With confirmed school start dates, mid-term breaks and end-of-year timelines through 2029, parents can better plan travel, childcare and academic commitments.
While some curriculum-based variations remain, the long-term structure signals a move toward greater consistency across the UAE education system.
