Classrooms across government schools in the UAE will follow shortened Fridays starting January 9, as education authorities formalize timetable changes tied to the revised congregational prayer schedule.
Under the updated arrangement, government kindergartens will operate from 8am until 11.30am on Fridays. Younger students in Cycle 1 will follow one of two approved schedules, either from 7.10am to 10.30am or from 8am to 11.30am. For older students in Cycles 2 and 3, Friday hours will depend on gender, with boys attending from 7.10am to 10.30am and girls from 8am to 11.30am.
In Dubai, the private education sector will move in step with the new timing. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority has directed all private schools and early childhood centres operating within school campuses to conclude on-site classes by 11.30am every Friday, effective on the same date.
Education leaders across the emirate had already begun adjusting internal schedules in recent weeks, weighing early dismissal options and alternative timetables in anticipation of the shift. These discussions followed consultations between regulators and school operators after the nationwide update to Friday prayer hours.
The revised school timings are linked to the decision to standardize Friday congregational prayers at 12.45pm across the UAE, a move that prompted coordination between education authorities and institutions to minimize disruption for students, families, and staff.
For students in Grade 6 (Year 7) and above, schools are allowed to apply for permission to deliver Friday lessons through online platforms, provided parents are consulted and regulatory approval is secured.
