Dubai private schools to shorten Friday hours from January

Starting January 9, all private schools and early childhood centres in Dubai will end classes on Fridays no later than 11:30 am.

In a statement, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) said the change in timing comes after Friday prayer timing was shifted to 12:45 pm across the country.

"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," it added.

Schools can seek approval to offer online learning on Fridays for students in Grade 6 (Year 7) and above, KHDA said, adding it's subject to parental consultation.

Schools hours from Monday to Thursday will remain unchanged.

"KHDA will continue to work closely with schools and ECCs to support effective implementation and minimise disruption to teaching, learning and operations," their statement read. 

In line with the adjustment of the Friday prayer time across the country to 12:45pm, and following consultations with educational institutions, effective Friday, January 9, 2026, all private schools and early childhood centres operating within private schools in Dubai will finish… pic.twitter.com/ywygPEq0pI

— KHDA | هيئة المعرفة والتنمية البشرية بدبي (@KHDA) December 19, 2025