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UAE Public Schools to Follow Early Dismissal on Fridays Starting January 9

New school schedules align with updated Friday prayer time across public and private schools

  • Publish date: since 3 hours Reading time: 1 min read
UAE Public Schools to Follow Early Dismissal on Fridays Starting January 9

The UAE is switching things up on Fridays. Starting January 9, new school hours will kick in across government schools, following the nationwide update to Friday prayer time at 12.45pm.

The goal? Give students and staff enough time to wrap up the school day and get to prayers without the rush.

New Friday Timings for Government Schools

Here’s how Fridays will look moving forward in public schools:

  • Kindergarten: 8am to 11.30am

  • Cycle 1 (two schedules):

    • 7.10am to 10.30am

    • 8am to 11.30am

  • Cycles 2 and 3:

    • Boys: 7.10am to 10.30am

    • Girls: 8am to 11.30am

Shorter school days, same learning—just more breathing room before prayer time.

What About Private Schools in Dubai?

Dubai’s private schools are also adjusting. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has confirmed that all private schools and early childhood centres must end the school day by 11.30am on Fridays, starting the same date.

Many schools had already been planning early dismissals, so this makes it official.

Online Classes Could Be an Option

For Grade 6 (Year 7) and above, schools may apply to offer online learning on Fridays. This depends on parent consultation and approval from KHDA, giving families more flexibility where possible.

Why the Change?

The revised school hours follow coordination between education authorities and schools after the Friday prayer time was moved to 12.45pm nationwide. It’s all about smoother schedules and less pressure on Fridays.

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