RIYADH – Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Education has announced a 23-day suspension of in-person classes for all students and teachers across the Kingdom, coinciding with the official Eid al-Fitr holiday. The decision, based on the approved academic calendar for the year 1447H, aims to provide an extended period of rest and celebration for the educational community.
According to the Ministry, the official holiday will begin at the finish of the school day on Thursday, 16 Ramadan 1447H, corresponding to March 5, 2026. Students and teachers will return to classes on Sunday, 10 Shawwal 1447H, which falls on March 29, 2026. So the holiday is just nine days away from the date of the announcement.
The Ministry of Education also detailed remaining holidays for the current academic year 1447H, including Eid al-Adha, which will run from 5 to 15 Dhul-Hijjah 1447H, and the end-of-year break beginning on 10 Muharram 1448H. The Ministry is also taking steps to ensure continued education during the month of Ramadan, announcing that first-term exams for all levels will begin on Monday, February 23, 2025, with evaluations continuing until the start of the Eid al-Fitr holiday. Students who miss exams without a valid medical excuse will receive a score of zero.
Future Academic Year Dates
In addition to the Eid al-Fitr break, the Ministry has published dates for the start and end of the academic year for the next three years. The academic year 1449/1448H will begin on 10 Rabi’ al-Awwal 1448H and end on 19 Muharram 1449H. The year 1450/1449H will run from 20 Rabi’ al-Awwal 1449H to 29 Muharram 1450H, and the year 1451/1450H will begin on 29 Rabi’ al-Awwal 1450H and conclude on 16 Safar 1451H. These dates provide families and educators with long-term planning visibility.
The Ministry of Education’s announcement comes as families prepare for the upcoming Eid al-Fitr celebrations. The extended break provides an opportunity for students and teachers to recharge and spend time with loved ones. The Ministry’s website, the official source for the academic calendar, provides further details and resources for parents and students.
As the Kingdom prepares for the Eid al-Fitr holiday, the Ministry of Education’s proactive planning ensures a smooth transition back to studies at the end of March. The implementation of the summer schedule, with classes starting at 6:30 AM, is also intended to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures during the coming months, as reported by Aden News.
Looking ahead, the Ministry will continue to monitor the educational landscape and adjust schedules as needed to ensure the best possible learning environment for students across Saudi Arabia. Parents and educators are encouraged to stay informed through official Ministry channels for any further updates or announcements.
Share your thoughts on the extended Eid al-Fitr break in the comments below!
