Which Schools Have the Fewest Holidays?

A common source of irritation for Dubai parents is the number of school closure days. Whether it be half terms, lengthy public holidays or the long summer break, the change in routine and struggle for childcare can be challenging. While there are set minimum requirements for schools to follow, there may still be some variance in the number of school days provided. Wondering how your child’s school fairs? 

The minimum requirement…

The UAE’s federal education body, the Ministry of Education, stipulates the minimum of number of school days for UAE schools, which varies slightly from year to year, largely depending on where in the week public holidays fall. While Ministry of Education schools must provide 188 in the 2022-23 academic year, international schools (i.e. any schools following a curriculum other than UAE’s Ministry of Education curriculum) are permitted to provide fewer days: a minimum of 182. This has become the standard, with only a minority of schools having fewer closures.

Do all private schools in Dubai follow the same academic calendar?

There are two basic academic year formats: one starting in August/September (UK, American, IB schools) and the other starting in April (Indian, Pakistani, Japanese schools). Dubai’s private schools must follow the directives given from KHDA regarding holiday and term dates and public holidays, but there is some flexibility permitted. Notably, a school’s spring break can last for a duration of two weeks or three weeks and schools can opt to close for half term breaks or not.

Public holidays, while often communicated by schools in advance, are expected dates only, and are confirmed by KHDA closer to the time.

Why do schools have longer public holidays than the private sector?

While the intention to unify public holidays between the public and private sector has been reported on in recent years, there are still discrepancies between the two, and schools tend to fall under the public sector category where holidays are concerned, whether private or public. Private schools are directed on these closures and are not permitted to deviate from this.

Which schools will provide the most school days in 2022-23?

According to KHDA, of the 201 schools licensed to operate in Dubai for 2022-23 academic year, 163 schools will provide the minimum number of school days: 182. If you do not see your child's school in the list below, it has opted to align with the standard, and minimum, 182 school days. 38 of Dubai’s international schools will be open for a higher number of days, ranging between 183 and 191.