While students gear up for their month-long winter break before the last lap of the academic year, the UAE has made plans for a new era of learning. From the 2026-2027 academic year onward, Indian curriculum schools across the UAE will officially adopt the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) unified academic calendar. This marks a significant structural change for institutions that have followed the April–March academic cycle. Since the 2025-2026 academic year has already begun, the new policy doesn’t apply, as most Indian curriculum schools have already commenced classes. Keep reading for more details.
Also Read: UAE School Students Get 3-Day School Week This December Before Winter Break Starts
Plans For A Seamless Transition
Plans to unify the academic calendar for the 2026-2027 batch have already begun. Dubai principals have revealed that schools are making adjustments to the curriculum pacing and revising assessment timelines. A roadmap of adapting school routines to align with the unified calendar is also underway. The current priority is to maintain academic rigour while ensuring compliance with MOE guidelines.
Institutional leaders have also emphasised the importance of clear communication to help families adapt.. They have also noted the effect calendar shifts can have on daily routines. Which is why schools will roll out advanced notifications on key dates and introduce transitional buffers. Institutions will also conduct orientation sessions will with students and parents. To support students during the transition, wellbeing measures will be factored into the plan.
Student Wellbeing & Stability
Some school principals have shared that transitions to the new will be managed through a “three-pronged effort” to ensure continuity in student learning. They have also revealed that student wellbeing remains a priority in the school’s planning. While plans to make changes are ongoing, timetables and internal assessments will continue to meet board requirements. To help students prepare for their board exams, mock exams and revision schedules will also be recalibrated.
Once changes get implemented, schools will conduct orientation rounds for teachers, parents and students to help families with the transition. Parents and students will receive printed FAQs that outline expectations, address concerns, and set clear expectations.
Schools To Follow The Current Academic Calendar
Schools that follow the Indian curriculum will continue with their current academic structure until the April 2026 deadline. Key organisational leaders have also shared their school’s plans towards a unified calendar. They explain that the transition will be carried out in a phased, deliberate manner ahead of the April 2026 implementation.
December is notably a critical period for students following the Indian curriculum as they prepare for their board exams. Younger students, however, engage in a mix of academic, sports and co-curricular activities, which serves as a required break before the final stretch of the year.
As Indian curriculum schools begin planning to adopt a new academic structure in April 2026, they will consider measures to ensure a seamless transition. As of right now, institutions will continue to the 2025-2026 calendar. For all the latest developments on the new academic framework, keep reading Gulf Buzz!
