The Ministry of Education has announced revised school timings in Abu Dhabi during the holy month of Ramadan, aiming to ease the daily routine of fasting students while maintaining academic continuity. The adjustment reflects the government’s continued commitment to balancing educational excellence with students’ wellbeing, spiritual reflection, and family life.
Ramadan is a period of fasting, prayer, and community engagement observed by Muslims worldwide. Recognising the physical and mental demands placed on students who fast from dawn to sunset, the Ministry has shortened school hours to reduce fatigue and support concentration levels. The revised schedule ensures that learning objectives are met without overwhelming students during this spiritually significant month.
The new timings apply to public schools across Abu Dhabi, with flexibility granted for private institutions to align their schedules accordingly. By reducing instructional hours and adjusting break periods, the Ministry seeks to create a more supportive academic environment that respects religious practices while preserving curriculum standards.
Educational leaders highlighted that the changes are designed not only to accommodate fasting but also to strengthen family bonds. Earlier dismissal times allow students to participate in afternoon rest, prepare for iftar with family members, and engage in religious activities such as prayer and Quran recitation. This approach reinforces the importance of holistic development—academically, spiritually, and socially.
Teachers have also been encouraged to adopt flexible teaching strategies during Ramadan. Interactive lessons, lighter homework loads, and mindful scheduling of assessments are part of the broader framework to ensure students remain engaged without experiencing unnecessary stress.
Parents across Abu Dhabi have welcomed the move, noting that the revised hours help children maintain energy levels and balance school responsibilities with Ramadan traditions. The initiative reflects Abu Dhabi’s broader vision of community wellbeing and inclusive education policies that prioritise both academic performance and cultural values.
By thoughtfully adjusting school hours, the Ministry of Education demonstrates its understanding of students’ needs during Ramadan and its dedication to nurturing a balanced, supportive learning environment.
