Dubai School Holiday Calendar 2026 (Parents Guide)
Planning family time around school holidays? Here is an overview of the Dubai school holiday calendar for 2026.
Carla from Mumma
For many families in Dubai, school holidays are the perfect opportunity to plan travel, family activities and time together.
Because Dubai has many international schools following different curricula, holiday dates can vary slightly between schools.
However, there are general time periods when most schools across the UAE schedule their main breaks.
Here is a helpful overview of the typical school holiday periods in Dubai for 2026.
Winter Break
Winter break usually takes place at the end of the year and continues into the beginning of the next year.
Most schools typically close for winter holidays around:
Late December to early January.
This is often when many families travel or spend time with relatives.
Spring Break
Spring break usually takes place around March or April depending on the school calendar.
This is one of the most popular family travel periods of the year.
Many families also plan:
- staycations
- family activities
- local attractions
Spring break in 2026 may vary slightly between schools.
Parents should always confirm dates with their specific school.
Summer Holidays
Summer holidays are the longest school break of the year.
Most schools in Dubai close for summer around:
Late June until late August.
During this time families often:
- travel abroad
- visit relatives
- enroll children in summer camps
- explore indoor activities across Dubai
Why Holiday Planning Helps Families
Many parents in Dubai plan their calendars well in advance around school holidays.
Planning ahead can help families:
- book travel earlier
- schedule camps or activities
- organise childcare support
- plan family experiences
Always Confirm Dates With Your School
While these periods reflect the typical structure of school holidays in Dubai, exact dates may vary between schools.
Families should always confirm official holiday schedules directly with their children's school.
Find Family Activities During School Holidays
If you are looking for activities to keep children busy during school breaks, explore:
These pages highlight family-friendly experiences across Dubai and the UAE.
Share Helpful Tips With Other Parents
If you have great ideas for activities during school holidays in Dubai, feel free to share them with the Mumma community.
Parent recommendations often help other families discover new experiences for their children.