Dubai’s KHDA begins survey as schools await instructions from educational authorities 

Dubai, Dec 10, 2025: Short Fridays are likely to become shorter for UAE students as most schools across the country are likely to close early on Fridays from January 2026 following the announcement of standardised Friday prayer timings nationwide. 

The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat announced on Tuesday that Friday sermons and prayers will be held at 12.45pm from January 2, 2026. The decision standardises prayer timing across the country to support better organisation and ensure consistency for all worshippers.   

Schools are now awaiting formal instructions from education authorities to implement schedule changes ahead of the January 2026 deadline. Meanwhile, the KHDA has begun a survey in Dubai schools to understand how the change may affect teaching hours and potential adjustments.