A number of schools in the UAE have announced an extended weekend for students to mark the Indian festival of Diwali. However, in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, these institutions have decided to scale back on-campus celebrations.
Gems Our Own Indian School, for instance, has informed parents that it will close its doors on both Friday, November 10, and Monday, November 13, granting students a four-day weekend. The school’s principal, Lalitha Suresh, has stated that the extended break is intended to provide families with ample time to celebrate Diwali. However, she also mentioned that festivities at school will be subdued this year, with educational activities taking place in class assemblies. Suresh further highlighted the school’s initiative encouraging students to contribute to the Emirates Red Crescent’s ‘Tarahum – for Gaza’ campaign, aimed at supporting Palestinians affected by the violence.
Other schools are adopting a similar stance. Shining Star International in Abu Dhabi has decided to cancel all major celebrations. Principal Abhilasha Singh expressed deep concern over the situation in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The school has ceased all music and dance activities and is focusing strictly on essential curriculum elements while encouraging prayers for peace in the region.
Likewise, Sharjah Indian School will not engage in its usual festive activities. According to Principal Pramod Mahajan, the school will not distribute sweets and is promoting awareness among the student council about the conflict.
Across the UAE, schools are setting up donation boxes for students and parents to contribute essential items to aid civilians in Gaza. This move aligns with the broader stance taken by Gems Education, which has issued a directive to all its schools to suspend celebratory events, including those related to Diwali and the upcoming Christmas season, until further notice due to the regional conflict.