Back-to-School Dates UAE 2025: Official Calendar & Tips for Families

As summer winds down and August creeps in, most UAE parents know what’s coming: that familiar mix of excitement, stress, and a sudden hunt for last year’s lost lunchbox. The 2025–2026 school year is fast approaching, and whether you’re a first-time parent navigating school routines or a seasoned pro with multiple kids and a full-time nanny, this guide is here to make the transition smoother.

In true Yaya fashion, we’re breaking it all down—from key dates to helpful routines, lunchbox hacks, and how your nanny or housemaid can play a vital roles.

UAE School Start Dates for 2025–2026

The Ministry of Education has confirmed a unified calendar that applies to most public and private schools across the UAE:

• Staff return: Monday, 18 August 2025
• Students return: Monday, 25 August 2025
• First mid-term break: 13–19 October 2025
• Winter break: 8 December 2025 – 4 January 2026
• Second mid-term break: 11–15 February 2026
• Spring break: 16–29 March 2026 (Sharjah resumes 23 March)
• Third mid-term break: 25–31 May 2026 (aligned with Eid Al Adha)
• School ends: 3 July 2026 (2 July for some Sharjah schools)

Schools following Indian curricula (CBSE/ICSE) may operate on an April-to-March schedule, but most will resume with others in late August.

Source: WAM, Gulf News, Khaleej Times, WhichSchoolAdvisor

Why Your Nanny Is Essential During Back-to-School Season

In the UAE, a nanny’s role often goes far beyond childcare. She may also handle drop-offs and pick-ups, prep uniforms, pack lunchboxes, and create after-school calm when kids come home overstimulated. Many nannies in Dubai take on this dual role of caregiver and housekeeper, especially while kids are at school.

That’s why it’s so important to involve them early in your family’s back-to-school planning. The more informed and confident your nanny feels, the smoother your mornings will run.

For additional support, check out our blog on Back-to-School Tips for Parents and Helpers in the UAE for a deeper dive into how to align schedules, set expectations, and communicate effectively.

Helpful Tips to Prepare as a Family

1. Walk Through the Routine Together
Set aside 30 minutes with your nanny before school starts to go over the new weekday flow. Discuss wake-up times, school transport, after-school activities, and what to expect during term breaks. A printed schedule on the fridge can go a long way.

2. Reset Sleep and Screen Time Early
Start adjusting bedtime 1–2 weeks before term starts. Ask your nanny to help lead quiet wind-down routines, reduce evening screens, and reintroduce earlier wake-ups gradually. You can also follow expert advice from Julie Mallon of Nurture 2 Sleep, who shares realistic tips for easing children into school-time sleep habits.

3. Get Uniforms and Bags in Order
Label everything. Wash what still fits and make a checklist of what needs replacing. Let your nanny help your child try on shoes and practice morning prep together to build excitement.

4. Plan Lunches as a Team
If your nanny helps with cooking, plan weekly lunchboxes together. Freeze batches where possible. For inspiration, see our list of 10 Healthy School Lunch Ideas that are easy, budget-friendly, and kid-approved.

5. Emotional Prep Matters
Talk to your nanny about your child’s emotional patterns—what to watch for if they’re feeling nervous or overwhelmed. Some children may be clingy; others might act out. A shared approach between parent and nanny brings comfort and consistency. For more emotional support ideas, don’t miss our article on A Parent’s Emotional Journey on the First Day of School.

Practical Guidance for Nannies

Pulling from advice by The Nanny Hub, Sommet Nannies, and the International Nanny Association, here are ways nannies can feel confident and prepared:

• Understand new expectations: School time might mean earlier wake-ups, more structure, and new responsibilities.
• Get familiar with schedules: Stay on top of school memos, dress-up days, or changed timings. Parents can help by printing emails or forwarding WhatsApp updates.
• Take ownership: Nannies can confidently handle uniform prep, backpack checks, or helping children decompress after school.
• Be emotionally aware: Kids may not always express stress with words. A nanny attuned to behaviour and emotional cues can be a calming presence.
• Celebrate wins: Helping with routines, prepping snacks, comforting a sad child—these things matter. Acknowledgement from parents strengthens the caregiver bond.

Looking Ahead: Midterm and Holiday Planning

The new academic year includes several breaks. These are great opportunities to schedule family holidays, arrange backup help, or offer your nanny paid leave:

• 13–19 October: Mid-term break 1
• 8 Dec – 4 Jan: 4-week winter holiday
• 11–15 February: Mid-term break 2
• 16–29 March: Spring break (Sharjah resumes earlier)
• 25–31 May: Mid-term break 3 / Eid Al Adha

Planning together helps everyone avoid misunderstandings later.

More Resources for UAE Families

If you’re still finalising schedules or looking to bring on extra help for the new term, visit our:

• Why Nannies Quit – and How to Build a Better Relationship
• Back-to-School Tips for Parents and Helpers in the UAE

Final Thoughts

Back to school is a team effort. And in the UAE, where so many families rely on wonderful nannies, that team is bigger than just parents and children. When everyone feels informed, supported, and involved, the transition is easier for everyone.

Here’s to a confident, connected, and calm start to the 2025 school year—from all of us at Yaya.