For many families residing in the UAE, the Eid holidays are not just a few days of rest; those few days can change travel plans, exams, remedial classes, and even the atmosphere at home.

This year, it seems that Eid al-Adha will create one of the longest school holidays of 2026. According to the UAE Ministry of Education, the mid-term and Eid al-Adha holidays for public schools will be from Monday, May 25 to Friday, May 29. With the addition of the weekend before and after, some students will effectively have a 9-day break.

In private schools, the holidays start on Tuesday, May 26, coinciding with the Day of Arafah, and continue until Friday. Since this holiday falls on a weekend, many families can count on a 6-day break.

However, there is still an important point; the final date of Eid al-Adha, like every year, depends on the sighting of the moon. Therefore, the official holiday dates may shift slightly; a matter that is still confusing for many families new to the UAE.

Schools in the UAE usually start internal planning weeks before Eid. Especially now that schools have entered the exam season and end-of-year summaries. For this reason, parents are informed in advance about the last day of classes, return dates, exam schedules, and assignments through school apps, emails, and educational portals.

Some schools also use something called a 'Bridge Day'; meaning if a holiday falls in the middle of the week, an extra day is added off to make the weekend longer. This usually has a direct impact on travel costs, childcare arrangements, and even exam preparedness.

Regarding holiday assignments, the good news is that many schools in the UAE are now trying to put less pressure on students. For younger children, there is more emphasis on free study and family time. However, students in exam years may receive review files, online exercises, or educational videos.

School administrators say that this year maintaining a balance between study and students' mental health has become more important; as both end-of-year exams are approaching and many families plan to travel during the Eid holidays.

In the meantime, schools have advised parents to check the school reopening dates and exam schedules again before booking travel or extending holidays; as the final confirmation of holidays still depends on the official announcement of the moon sighting.

Source: Gulf Times