UAE schools following the Ministry of Education national curriculum will operate across 185 teaching days in the 2026–2027 academic year, under a calendar the ministry has now formally approved.
Teachers return on August 24, one week ahead of students, who begin classes on August 31. The year runs over 37 weeks, divided into three terms: 13 weeks in the first term and 12 weeks each in the second and third. The calendar applies to government schools and private schools delivering the national curriculum.
Winter break for students starts on December 14, with teaching and administrative staff following on December 21 once they have completed academic and administrative duties. Spring break begins on April 5, 2027 for both students and staff.
Students complete the year on July 2, 2027. Teachers and administrative staff remain on duty until July 16 to process examination results, wrap up year-end administrative work and begin preparations for the following academic year.
The ministry described the calendar as the official reference for organising the school year, intended to give schools and families a clear framework for educational planning and operations.
