Parents and students from public schools have welcomed the UAE government’s decision to implement remote learning on Fridays during Ramadan. They said the move will lessen fatigue and exhaustion for fasting students while allowing them more time with their families and for worship.
The distance learning decision during the holy month does not apply to students with exams scheduled on Fridays when the school hours will be from 9am to noon.
Speaking to Khaleej Times, many parents have praised the decision, emphasising that Friday holds great religious significance, especially during Ramadan. With shorter study hours, children can prepare for Friday prayers early, attend the sermon on time, and recite Surat Al-Kahf at the mosque.
Umm Muhammad—whose 11-year-old son is in 6 Grade at a government school in Sharjah—said she was pleased with the decision. “We were hoping for school to be cancelled on Fridays, but we are just as happy with remote learning,” she said.
“Since my son fasts during Ramadan, this will allow him to study comfortably before heading to the mosque for Friday prayers.” She added that on regular school days, her son naps after returning home but often wakes up tired. The new schedule will be more beneficial.
“Children will feel more comfortable going to school for four days and rest for three. This will give them time to spend with family, relax, and review their lessons,” Umm Muhammad added.
Students who experienced distance learning during the Covid-19 pandemic are already familiar with the system, so adapting to online classes is not challenging.
During Ramadan, online learning allows students to help prepare for family gatherings without added stress.
Dana Abdullah, a 9-year-old student at a public school in Dubai, said, “It’s a convenient decision that will allow us to study without feeling exhausted. At school, I like to run and play with my friends, which makes me even more tired later in the day.
“On Fridays, we welcome family at home, so I will be able to pray on time and help my mother in the kitchen without her telling me to rest,” she added.
Some parents see the decision as a chance for their children to get more rest. Ali Jassim, a father from Sharjah, typically drives his children to and from school only on Fridays. During Ramadan, he stays up late with family and friends until dawn.
“Since the schools will operate remotely, I can take the opportunity to get enough rest before going to Friday prayers,” said Jassim.
Emirati mother Eman added, “The decision to allow remote work and school on Fridays is excellent because this day is traditionally reserved for family gatherings. This decision allows families to reconnect after missing gatherings and meetings due to long working hours. We have all been waiting for this decision.”
© Khaleej Times
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