Enabling Dubai private schools to conduct “distance learning” on Fridays by official request

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai announced a change in the working hours of private schools in Dubai on Fridays, as schools must dismiss students no later than 11:30, starting next January 9.

In detail, the authority stated that in response to the decision to amend the time for holding Friday prayers in all mosques in the country to be at 12:45 noon, starting on Friday, January 2, 2026, and in coordination and consultation with the relevant educational institutions in the emirate, all private schools and their affiliated early childhood centers must implement the early dismissal system for students on Fridays, so that the dismissal time does not exceed 11:30 am, starting on Friday, January 9. 2026.

The authority stressed the need to give priority to the quality of life of students, while fully adhering to the requirements of the approved curriculum, and maintaining the number of teaching hours from Monday to Thursday without any modification.

She explained that schools have the flexibility to adopt a gradual or phased dismissal system on Fridays, taking into account logistical, operational and academic requirements, and limiting any impact on the conduct of the teaching and learning processes, provided that no student remains on the school campus after 11:30 am, unless safe and appropriate supervision arrangements are provided.

The Authority indicated the possibility of schools submitting a request to obtain approval to implement the distance learning system on Fridays for students in the sixth grade (seventh year) and above, after consulting with parents and obtaining prior approval from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority.

The Authority confirmed that it will continue to work closely with schools and early childhood centers to support the smooth and effective implementation of the decision, and reduce any potential repercussions on the educational and operational aspects.