UAE October school holidays 2026 are taking place during the first-semester mid-term break. The UAE Ministry of Education’s 2026–2027 academic calendar lists the break from Monday, 12 October, to Sunday, 18 October 2026, with classes scheduled to resume on Monday, 19 October. However, some private schools may follow a different approved calendar, so parents should confirm the dates directly with their child’s school.
UAE October school holidays 2026: key dates
- First-semester mid-term break: 12–18 October 2026
- Expected return to school: Monday, 19 October 2026
- Academic year: 2026–2027
- Who should check carefully: Families at private schools following different curricula or school-specific calendars, especially in Sharjah.
The Ministry of Education announced the academic calendar for 2026–2027 and later years in February 2026. Its calendar states that the October mid-term break applies to public schools and private schools following the Ministry curriculum. Other private schools may adjust October and/or February mid-term breaks with approval from their local education authority, with up to five days of variation; Sharjah has specific rules. Always use your school’s published calendar as the final reference.
Are all UAE schools closed from 12 to 18 October?
Not necessarily. The national calendar gives the main dates, but private schools can have approved variations. Dubai parents can check the school calendar published by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). In Abu Dhabi, check the school’s communication and relevant Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) guidance. In Sharjah and the other emirates, confirm the dates with the school and the applicable education authority.
Do not rely only on a general social-media post or a calendar from another school. School-specific calendars can differ, including staff training days and the exact day students return.
When will UAE schools reopen after the October break?
For schools following the Ministry of Education’s published 2026–2027 calendar, classes are scheduled to resume on Monday, 19 October 2026. If your school has announced a different approved break, follow its official notice. Parents should check the school app, email, website or parent portal before arranging transport, childcare or travel.
What are the next school holidays in the UAE?
According to the Ministry of Education’s 2026–2027 calendar, the next major scheduled break is the winter holiday, from 14 December 2026 to 3 January 2027, with schools resuming on 4 January 2027. The spring break is scheduled for 5–11 April 2027, with classes resuming on 12 April 2027. Dates may differ for schools operating under an approved alternative calendar, so check the relevant school calendar before booking.
How can parents plan for the October school break?
- Confirm the reopening date: Check the latest school message before Monday, 19 October.
- Check holiday homework: Review assignments and project deadlines before classes resume.
- Plan travel carefully: Verify airline tickets, hotel bookings and any school attendance requirements.
- Arrange childcare: Working parents should confirm the exact break dates and any school activity or camp schedules.
- Use official sources: Prefer the Ministry of Education or the relevant emirate’s education authority over forwarded messages.
Frequently asked questions
How long are the UAE October school holidays in 2026?
The Ministry of Education calendar lists a seven-day mid-term break, from 12 to 18 October 2026. Your school’s approved calendar may differ.
Do Dubai private schools have the same October holiday dates?
Not always. Private schools may have approved variations. Check the school’s KHDA calendar or its official parent communication for the exact dates.
When do students return to school after the October break?
The Ministry calendar schedules reopening for Monday, 19 October 2026, for schools following that calendar. Confirm with your own school.
When is the UAE winter school holiday for 2026–2027?
The Ministry’s published calendar lists winter break from 14 December 2026 to 3 January 2027, with classes resuming on 4 January 2027.
Official sources
- UAE Ministry of Education: Academic calendar for 2026–2029
- UAE Ministry of Education: 2026–2027 academic calendar
- KHDA school calendar example for Dubai private schools
Last updated: 14 October 2026. Dates are based on official calendar information available at the time of publication. Parents should verify school-specific dates directly with their school.
