By Staff Reporter
ABU DHABI, — The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has approved a unified academic calendar for higher education institutions across the UAE for the next three academic years, standardising term dates for federal and private universities.
The move, announced in line with directives from the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council, is designed to align academic schedules nationwide while allowing limited flexibility for international branch campuses.
Under the new framework, institutions may adjust the start and end of semesters or holiday dates by up to one week, provided the total duration of academic terms and breaks remains unchanged.
For the 2026–2027 academic year, classes will commence on August 31, 2026. The winter break is scheduled from December 21, 2026, to January 1, 2027, with classes resuming on January 4. Spring break will run from April 5 to April 9, 2027. The summer semester is set from May 24 to July 2, 2027, marking the end of the academic year.
The 2027–2028 academic year will begin on August 30, 2027. Winter break will take place from December 20 to December 31, while spring break is planned for March 27 to March 31, 2028. The summer semester will run from May 22 to June 30, 2028.
For 2028–2029, the academic year will start on August 28, 2028. Winter break is scheduled from December 18 to December 29, and spring break from March 26 to March 30, 2029. The summer semester will run from May 21 to June 29, 2029.
The calendar establishes a structure of 16 teaching weeks in the first semester, 17 weeks in the second semester, and six weeks in the summer semester, excluding official holidays.
MoHESR said the unified academic framework will enhance coordination between institutions, improve programme delivery, and ensure a balanced academic experience for students. The ministry added that the decision supports national development priorities by promoting stable, high-quality educational outcomes and strengthening pathways for students’ academic and professional advancement.
The announcement was reported by the Emirates News Agency.
