When is the October half-term in the UAE in 2026? For schools following the unified Ministry of Education and KHDA calendar, the break runs from Monday 12 to Friday 16 October 2026. With the weekends either side, children are off from Saturday 10 to Sunday 18 October — nine days — and return on Monday 19 October. Several Dubai private schools moved their break a week earlier to fit these dates.
| Last school day before the break | Friday 9 October 2026 |
| Half-term (school days off) | Monday 12 – Friday 16 October 2026 |
| Full time off including weekends | Saturday 10 – Sunday 18 October 2026 (9 days) |
| Back to school | Monday 19 October 2026 |
Why the dates changed
Khaleej Times reported on 7 September that a number of Dubai private schools shifted their October break forward by one week to line up with the Ministry of Education and KHDA calendar, as the UAE moves towards a single school calendar across the country.
Does it apply to my child’s school?
Not necessarily. Schools following other curricula, schools in Sharjah, and many Indian and other Asian-curriculum schools that run an April–March year can have different dates. Check your school’s own approved calendar or its latest parent circular before you book anything.
Before you book flights
- Confirm dates in writing from your school.
- Watch for schedule changes. The UAE suspended Iranian airlines from 24 September, and some international carriers have reduced Gulf routes — what travellers should check.
- Consider staying in the UAE. Etihad Rail’s Dubai station opens on 30 September, with trains to Abu Dhabi from AED 39 — Etihad Rail Dubai guide. Global Village season 31 is expected to reopen in mid-October, though the exact date had not been confirmed at the time of writing.
- Plan the next break too. National Day falls on 2–3 December — see remaining UAE public holidays in 2026.
Common questions
When is the October half-term 2026 in Dubai?
For schools on the unified MoE and KHDA calendar, Monday 12 to Friday 16 October 2026, with pupils back on Monday 19 October.
Is the October half-term a public holiday?
No. It is a school holiday only. Offices and government services work as normal.
Published 27 September 2026, based on Khaleej Times reporting (7 September 2026). Dates vary by school and curriculum; your school’s approved calendar is final.
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