Schools in Dubai will finish earlier on Fridays starting January 9, 2026, following a nationwide adjustment to Friday prayer schedules, according to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).
In a statement, the KHDA said the change aligns with the new Friday prayer time of 12.45pm and comes after consultations with educational institutions across the emirate. Under the updated arrangement, all private schools and early childhood centres operating within private schools in Dubai must conclude the school day no later than 11.30am on Fridays.
It further added that schools may seek approval to provide online lessons for students in Grade 6 (Year 7) and above, subject to parental consultation and approval from the KHDA. The KHDA stressed that this adjustment prioritises students’ wellbeing while ensuring continued adherence to curriculum requirements.
“Schools are granted flexibility to implement staggered or phased dismissal arrangements to meet logistical, operational, and academic needs on Fridays, while minimising any impact on teaching and learning,” the statement added.
The change follows an announcement earlier this month by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, which confirmed new nationwide timings for Friday prayers and sermons at mosques. The authority announced that sermons and prayers will now begin at 12.45pm across the UAE, with the revised prayer schedule coming into effect from Friday, January 2.
