With just about a month left before the long winter holidays, schools across the UAE are bustling with energy. From parent-teacher meetings to field trips and concerts, the final stretch of the term is filled with both academic and festive activity.
This year, international curriculum schools will enjoy an extended winter break lasting nearly four weeks. The holiday begins with National Day celebrations on December 2 and 3, followed by the main break from December 8, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Classes will resume on January 5.
The Ministry of Education’s unified academic calendar for 2025–2026 began on August 25, aligning public and private schools. Meanwhile, Asian curriculum schools continue to follow their home-country exam schedules, adjusting their breaks accordingly.
At Woodlem American School in Ajman, Principal Marah Kaddoura said the final weeks are about balancing priorities — completing lessons, assessments, and PTMs while preparing for upcoming events.
“We’re focused on finalising the curriculum and maintaining clear communication with parents,” she said. Preparations are also underway for the school’s National Day celebrations.
In Dubai, Credence High School has already completed its first round of PTMs for Grades 2 to 12. CEO-Principal Deepika Thapar Singh noted that pleasant weather has encouraged outdoor learning.
“Students are stepping outdoors for enriching field trips across the UAE and beyond,” she said. “Annual concerts and sports days bring the community together to celebrate talent and teamwork.”
While younger students enjoy hands-on experiences, older students remain focused on academics. “Grades 10 and 12 are approaching their pre-board examinations, so maintaining academic momentum is essential,” Singh added.
At Ambassador School Dubai, Principal Sheela Menon described this period as “an active and dynamic time” marked by summative assessments, pre-boards, and multiple inter-school events. “Our exams run from November 7 to 22, followed by PTMs in mid-December,” she said.
Menon added that preparations for Term 3 “mega events” are also underway. “It’s a time of great enthusiasm, with exams, events, and training sessions happening simultaneously.”
Students in Grades 5 and above are already sitting for term-end exams, while board students are completing practicals and viva exams. External assessments are also being conducted during this time.
As schools race toward the finish line of 2025’s final term, campuses across the UAE reflect a mix of discipline, excitement, and anticipation — setting the stage for a well-deserved winter break filled with rest, travel, and celebration.