The KHDA issued the guidelines on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, instructing all private schools in Dubai to shorten the school day to a maximum of five hours. Schools are also encouraged to consider parents’ feedback when deciding start and end times, ensuring that the schedule works for families.
Students who are fasting during Ramadan are exempt from physical education (PE) classes, prioritizing their health and well-being during the month. This adjustment helps ensure that children can focus on learning while observing Ramadan practices.
On Fridays, schools should conclude by 11:30 a.m. to allow students and staff to attend Friday prayers. For other days, exact start and end times may vary by school, so parents are advised to check directly with their child’s school for precise schedules.
The KHDA emphasized:
“As we remain committed to providing a balanced learning environment during the Holy Month, here are the guidelines for private school attendance in Dubai, ensuring a learning experience that aligns with the spirit of Ramadan and enhances the quality of education.”
Predicted Start Date of Ramadan 2026
According to the International Astronomy Centre, it will be impossible to sight the Ramadan crescent moon on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, in the UAE.
The Islamic Hijri calendar begins a new month with the sighting of the crescent moon. Moon-sighting can vary slightly across different regions, which can lead to small differences in the start of Ramadan.
If the crescent moon is not sighted on February 17, an extra day will be observed, meaning Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19. Families should plan accordingly for school routines, meals, and fasting schedules.
Key Guidelines for Dubai Schools
Here’s a summary of the KHDA recommendations for schools during Ramadan 2026:
- Maximum school hours: 5 hours per day
- PE exemption: Students who are fasting are not required to participate in physical education classes
- Friday timings: School should finish by 11:30 a.m.
- Parental consultation: Schools should consider feedback from parents when setting start and end times
- School-specific details: Exact timings may vary, so parents should check directly with their child’s school
These guidelines are designed to provide a safe, supportive, and balanced learning environment for all students while respecting the spiritual practices of Ramadan.
Why This Matters for Students and Parents
Ramadan is a significant religious and cultural period in Dubai. The KHDA’s adjusted school timings aim to support students’ health, well-being, and academic progress while observing the holy month. Shortened school days, PE exemptions, and Friday schedule adjustments make it easier for families to manage their daily routines during Ramadan.
Parents should ensure they are aware of the predicted start of Ramadan on February 19, 2026, to coordinate morning routines, school transportation, and meal timings for children. Following these guidelines will help students participate fully in Ramadan without compromising their learning.
Planning Ahead
Parents and students can prepare for Ramadan 2026 by:
- Checking school-specific schedules for start and end times.
- Coordinating with teachers about exemptions for physical activities.
- Planning meals and breaks around school hours to support fasting students.
- Scheduling Friday prayers into family routines.
- Tracking Ramadan start dates to adjust morning and evening schedules accordingly.
By following the KHDA guidelines, Dubai schools and families can maintain a smooth academic schedule while embracing the spiritual essence of Ramadan.
Related Dubai News
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- Likely Ramadan 2026 Start Date: Officially predicted by astronomers in the UAE.
- Six Major Changes Coming to Dubai Schools This Ramadan: Key updates for parents and students.
- Dubai Public Holidays 2026: Stay updated on all official days off for effective planning.
Final Note
The KHDA’s Ramadan 2026 school timings reflect the UAE’s commitment to providing a balanced learning experience while respecting cultural and religious traditions. Parents should maintain close communication with their children’s schools to ensure schedules are followed accurately and students enjoy both their educational and spiritual activities.
With a shortened school day, exemptions from PE, and adjusted Friday schedules, students and families in Dubai can experience Ramadan fully while keeping their routines manageable.
FAQs for Dubai Ramadan 2026 school timings:
During Ramadan 2026, Dubai private schools will have a maximum five-hour school day, with Fridays ending by 11:30 a.m. for prayers.
Yes, students who are fasting in Ramadan 2026 are exempt from PE and other strenuous activities to ensure their health and well-being.
Ramadan 2026 is predicted to begin on Thursday, February 19, depending on crescent moon sighting, and may vary slightly across regions.
Yes, timings can vary by school and grade, so parents should check directly with their child’s school for exact schedules and any specific adjustments.
Parents should coordinate with schools, adjust meal schedules, and consider shortened hours to ensure children manage fasting and learning comfortably.
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