The move follows the Ministry of Education’s announcement of allowing remote lessons on Fridays for the second year in a row for government school students
With the holy month of Ramadan just around the corner, Khaleej Times has learned that private schools in the UAE are exploring the idea of offering distance learning on Fridays.
The move follows the Ministry of Education’s announcement that its ‘Ramadan with Family’ initiative will continue for government school students, allowing remote lessons on Fridays for the second year in a row.
The programme aims to give students more time with their families while keeping up with their studies, reflecting the social and spiritual rhythms of Ramadan.
Following guidance from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), private schools in Dubai have been advised to consult parents on distance learning provisions.
The regulator has said that schools may consider offering remote learning classes on Fridays during Ramadan — but only with majority parental consent and formal approval.
For many families, the conversation is as much about wellbeing as it is about academics. Shorter school hours and the physical demands of fasting often mean students return home tired, especially in the first weeks of the holy month.
In a circular sent to parents on Tuesday, Cambridge International School said it was reviewing the option carefully.
“As part of our commitment to supporting our students’ wellbeing while maintain high academic standards and in line with guidance from the KHDA, we are exploring the possibility of offering distance learning on Fridays during the holy month of Ramadan.”
At the same time, the school reassured families that academic commitments would remain intact.
“Please note that students who are scheduled to sit examinations on a Friday will be required to attend school in person as usual.”
The note further clarified that exam schedules will not be affected — a key concern for parents of senior students preparing or taking board assessments.
Similarly, Al Sadiq Islamic English School has sought parental input before taking any step. In a circular, the school shared a survey link, stating: “We are therefore seeking your feedback on whether you would support self-paced, asynchronous distance learning on Fridays during Ramadan.”
Emphasising that no immediate changes are being made, the school added, “This is a consultation only. No decision will be made without majority support and KHDA approval.”
© Khaleej Times
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