Dubai Private School Calendar 2025-26: Key Dates Parents Should Know
Published 3 months ago
For families living in Dubai or planning a move, the private school calendar affects travel, housing, childcare, moving dates, and annual budgeting. KHDA publishes the approved academic calendar for Dubai private schools, and schools must follow the dates set by the approved calendar while meeting the minimum number of school days.
Why the Calendar Matters
Many Dubai families plan tenancy renewals, relocations, and holidays around school dates. If you are moving to Dubai with children, knowing the school year structure can help you choose the right moving month and avoid last-minute admission stress.
September-Start Schools
For Dubai private schools starting in September for the 2025-26 academic year, KHDA lists the start of the academic year as 25 August 2025. Winter break starts on 8 December 2025 and classes resume on 5 January 2026. Spring break starts on 16 March 2026, classes resume on 30 March 2026, and the academic year ends on 3 July 2026.
April-Start Schools
For Dubai private schools starting in April for the 2025-26 academic year, KHDA lists the start of the academic year as 7 April 2025. Summer break starts on 30 June 2025 and classes resume on 25 August 2025. Winter break starts on 15 December 2025, classes resume on 5 January 2026, and the academic year ends in March 2026 subject to the school fulfilling the required number of school days.
What Parents Should Check
KHDA notes that public holidays such as Eid and UAE National Day are communicated tentatively by schools and confirmed once declared by the Federal Government. Parents should also check the individual school profile because each school may publish additional details such as professional development days and school-specific events.
Moving to Dubai Tip
If you are choosing a home, consider commute time to school, school bus availability, catchment preferences, after-school activities, and traffic patterns. A cheaper apartment can become inconvenient if the school commute is too long every day.
Final Note
Use KHDA's official calendar and your child's school profile before booking travel or signing housing contracts around school dates. Dates can be affected by official public holiday announcements.