An expatriation to Dubai requires many things to be considered, including schooling for the children.
In addition to choosing a suitable school, it is essential to know the UAE school holidays schedule in order to plan some activities to keep the children busy.
Find out the dates of school holidays in local and international schools, as well as some ideas for activities to do in Dubai as a family.
Dates for UAE School Holidays 2022-2023
There is a distinction between official UAE school holidays in local and international schools.
Schedule of School Holidays in Local Primary and Secondary Schools
The UAE school holidays correspond to three periods detailed below:
| School holidays | Period |
| Winter holidays | From December 12 to 30, 2022 |
| Spring holidays | From March 27 to April 14, 2023 |
| Summer holidays | From July 1 to August 27, 2023 |
Schedule of School Holidays in International Primary and Secondary Schools
The UAE school holidays schedule for international schools differs somewhat from that of local schools.
See the table below for the school holidays periods for international schools in Dubai:
| School vacations | Period |
| Winter holidays | From December 12 to 30, 2022 |
| Spring holidays | From February 13 to 17, 2023 |
| March holidays | From March 27 to April 7, 2023 |
| Summer holidays | From July 10 to August 26, 2023 |
List of Official Holidays in Dubai
Throughout the year, students enrolled in a school in Dubai enjoy several days off on public holidays:
- Christian New Year on January 1
- Eid Al Fitr, usually from May 3 to 5, to mark the end of the Ramadan fasting period
- National Day on December 2 to celebrate the establishment of the United Arab Emirates
- Al-Mawlid on October 7 to celebrate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad
- Eid al-Kebir (the day of the sacrifice of the sheep) on Sunday, July 10
- Lailat al-Miraj on March 1 to commemorate the ascension of the Prophet Muhammad to heaven
Ideas for Dubai School Holidays Activities
Dubai is a modern city with plenty of activities to do with your family during the school holidays.
Going to a Dubai Water Park
Dubai has three water parks: Wild Wadi Water Park, Aquaventure Waterpark, and LEGOLAND® Water Park.
All three parks are modern and well-equipped with various water activities for young and old. From huge water slides to relaxing pools in the sun, there’s no shortage of things to do in these parks dedicated to fun and relaxation.
Visit the Tallest Skyscraper in the World
Visiting the Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper in the world, is a must-do activity in Dubai. It is a unique and accessible experience for the whole family.
At 828 meters high, this iconic Dubai landmark offers breathtaking views from several observation platforms and bars.
A tour is available up to the 124th floor of the tower, where there is an observation platform. A second, more expensive tour takes you to a bar and restaurant on the 148th floor of the building.
Visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo are located in one of the city’s most famous shopping malls: the Dubai Mall.
This aquarium allows you to see many species of aquatic animals, including sharks, for free in the main pool. You can buy an entrance ticket to see other tanks and go through the tunnel below the main tank if you wish.
This activity is particularly popular with children.
You now know the dates of the UAE school Holidays 2022-2023 in order to prepare for your expatriation. Be aware of the differences between local and international schools’ holiday periods in the United Arab Emirates. This way, you can plan activities for your children and keep them busy during their vacations.
