Most UAE Schools Likely to Close Earlier on Fridays as Prayer Time Shifts in 2026
Schools in UAE are likely to adapt schedules for unified Friday prayer timings starting January 2026.
Most schools across the UAE are expected to close earlier on Fridays from January 2026, following the announcement of new standardised Friday prayer timings nationwide.
Earlier this week, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat confirmed that Friday sermons and Jumuah prayers will be held at 12:45pm starting January 2, 2026, replacing the current 1:15pm schedule. The move aims to unify prayer timings across all mosques in the country and improve organisational consistency for worshippers.
School principals were quoted by Gulf News that the change will require adjustments to Friday school schedules, ensuring Muslim students are able to return home in time for prayers. Many institutions are now preparing for earlier dismissal on Fridays, particularly for younger grade levels.
Education providers are currently awaiting official guidance from education regulators before implementing changes ahead of the 2026 deadline.
KHDA surveys Dubai schools
In Dubai, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has begun gathering feedback from schools to assess how the revised prayer timing could affect teaching hours and operational planning.
Lyudmyla Klykova, principal of Hampton Heights International School in Al Twar, confirmed that schools have been asked to participate in the process.
“KHDA is collecting feedback through a survey to gauge the impact on school timings, teaching hours, and operational adjustments.”
Klykova said her school is already exploring multiple scheduling options to accommodate the new Friday prayer time.
“The revised Friday prayer time will require adjustments to our schedule for primary and lower secondary. This may involve modifying break times or lesson durations.”
She added that Friday dismissal times may vary depending on how lessons and breaks are restructured.
“No final decision has been made yet. Once finalised, parents will receive a confirmed update. Our goal is minimal disruption to learning.”
With the UAE moving toward a fixed, nationwide Friday prayer schedule, education authorities and schools are expected to finalise updated Friday timetables well ahead of January 2026, ensuring a smooth transition for students and families.