UAE school winter break 2026–2027: When do holidays start and when will classes resume?

Parents across the UAE are beginning to plan their winter holidays as the current school term approaches its end. Students will enjoy a three-week winter break during the 2026–2027 academic year before returning to classrooms in January.

According to the academic calendar, the winter holiday will begin on December 14, 2026, and continue until January 3, 2027. Schools will reopen on Monday, January 4, marking the beginning of the second academic term.

While most schools following the standard September-start academic calendar will observe these dates, some private schools may have different holiday schedules depending on their curriculum and academic year.

UAE School Winter Break 2026–2027: Important Dates

Students across the UAE following the standard academic calendar will have three full weeks off during the winter holidays.

Here are the important dates parents should know:

The break includes three full weeks, giving students and families time to travel, celebrate the festive season and spend time together.

Dubai Private Schools: KHDA Winter Break Dates

Private schools in Dubai operate under the supervision of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), which oversees academic calendar requirements.

For schools following the September-start academic calendar, the winter break will run from December 14, 2026, to January 3, 2027.

Students will return to classrooms on Monday, January 4, 2027.

However, parents should check their school's approved academic calendar before making travel arrangements. Schools following an April-start academic year may have different term dates and holiday schedules.

Sharjah Private Schools: SPEA Winter Break Dates

Private schools in Sharjah are regulated by the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA).

Under the 2026–2027 September-start academic calendar, students will begin their winter holidays on December 14, 2026.

The break will continue until January 3, 2027, with schools reopening on January 4.

Parents are encouraged to check directly with their children's schools for any specific arrangements or changes to the published academic calendar.

UAE Public Schools: Ministry of Education Winter Holidays

Public schools across the UAE follow the academic calendar issued by the Ministry of Education (MoE).

For the 2026–2027 academic year, the winter break is scheduled from Monday, December 14, 2026, to Sunday, January 3, 2027.

Students will return on Monday, January 4, 2027, to begin the second academic term.

The three-week holiday will provide students with an opportunity to rest and prepare for the remainder of the academic year.

Do All UAE Schools Follow the Same Winter Break Dates?

Not all schools across the UAE necessarily follow identical holiday schedules.

The December 14 to January 3 winter break applies to schools following the standard September-start academic calendar.

However, some private schools operate under an April-start academic calendar, meaning their term dates and holiday periods may differ.

The curriculum and school-specific academic calendar can also influence the holiday schedule.

Parents should confirm the winter break dates directly with their children's schools before booking flights, planning holidays or making other travel arrangements.

Plan Your UAE Winter Holidays in Advance

With a three-week winter break scheduled for December 2026 and January 2027, families across the UAE can start planning their holidays early.

Whether travelling abroad, exploring local destinations or spending time at home, checking the school's confirmed academic calendar will help parents organise their plans without disrupting their children's education.