ABU DHABI (WAM)

The Ministry of Education has announced the approved academic calendar for the next three academic years, for both public and private schools.

 

The calendars apply to the following academic years: 2026–2027, 2027–2028, and 2028–2029.

This initiative aims to enhance stability across the education system, and facilitate early planning for students, parents, and educators. The Ministry stated that this calendar reflects its commitment to a sustainable framework that balances instructional days with quality learning outcomes, while accounting for both educational and social considerations.

 

2026-2027

For the 2026–2027 academic year, classes will begin on 31 August 2026. The mid-term break is scheduled from 12-18 October 2026, with classes resuming on 19 October 2026.

The winter break will run from 14 December 2026 to 3 January 2027, followed by a return to studies on 4 January 2027. The spring break will be scheduled from 5-11 April 2027, resuming on 12 April 2027, with the final school day set for 2 July 2027.

2027-2028

The 2027–2028 academic year will commence on 30 August 2027. The mid-term break will be held from 11-17 October 2027, with classes resuming on 18 October 2027.

The winter break is scheduled from 13 December 2027 to 2 January 2028, with studies resuming on 3 January 2028. The spring break will run from 27 March 2028 to 2 April 2028, resuming on 3 April 2028, and the academic year will conclude on 30 June 2028.

2028-2029

For the 2028-2029 academic year, classes will begin on 28 August 2028. The mid-term break is scheduled from 16-22 October 2028, with studies resuming on 23 October 2028.

The winter break will run from 11 December 2028 to 1 January 2029, with classes resuming on 2 January 2029. The spring break is set for 26 March to 1April 2029, resuming on 2 April 2029, and the final school day will be 29 June 2029.

The Ministry emphasised that all schools must adhere to the designated mid-term break. However, local education authorities may allow private schools not following the Ministry’s curriculum to split this break between October and February, provided it does not exceed five school days, and aligns with operational needs. This exception does not apply to private schools in Sharjah, which are governed by the emirate’s specific regulatory framework.

All schools are required to comply fully with the approved calendar. To ensure student attendance until the final day, schools must conduct final assessments or complete curriculum requirements during the last week of each term. An exception is granted only to year groups sitting for pre-scheduled international examinations.

The calendar does not apply to private schools following the Indian, Bangladeshi, or Pakistani curricula.

The Ministry noted that this three-year outlook improves sector readiness, resource management, and early programme planning, supporting its vision of schools as central pillars for future generations.