The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has approved the academic calendar for UAE higher education institutions for the next three years, standardizing schedules across federal and private universities while offering flexibility for international branch campuses.
The decision aligns with directives from the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council and aims to create a consistent academic framework across schools and HEIs. Institutions can adjust semester start and end dates or holiday timings by up to one week, provided the overall duration of breaks remains unchanged.
For the 2026-2027 academic year, classes begin on 31st August 2026. Winter break runs from 21st December to 1st January 2027, with classes resuming on 4th January. Spring break is scheduled from 5th to 9th April, and the summer semester runs from 24th May to 2nd July. The academic year ends on 2nd July 2027.
The 2027-2028 year starts on 30th August 2027, with winter break from 20th to 31st December and spring break from 27th to 31st March. The summer semester is scheduled from 22nd May to 30th June, concluding the year on 30th June 2028.
For 2028-2029, classes commence on 28th August 2028. Winter break runs from 18th to 29th December, spring break from 26th to 30th March, and the summer semester from 21st May to 29th June, marking the year’s end on 29th June 2029.
The calendar introduces a structured framework with 16 teaching weeks in the first semester, 17 in the second, and six in the summer semester, excluding official holidays. The unified schedule aims to improve academic planning, enhance programme delivery, and provide students with a balanced and consistent learning experience.
MoHESR highlighted that the calendar supports broader national development priorities by fostering stable, high-quality academic outcomes and preparing students for future educational and professional paths.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
