Indian curriculum schools across the UAE have announced extended holiday breaks for Diwali 2025, offering students and their families an opportunity to enjoy the Festival of Lights. These breaks, ranging from three to five days, have been approved by education authorities and will take place from October 18 to 22, combining the weekend with additional leave days.
Schools across Sharjah and Dubai
In Sharjah, Delhi Private School (DPS) will enjoy a five-day break after receiving approval from the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) for Monday and Tuesday to be declared holidays. With Friday already a weekend holiday in Sharjah, students and teachers will have time off from October 18 to 22. GEMS Our Own English High School, Sharjah – Boys, has also confirmed a five-day break with similar arrangements. However, not all schools in Sharjah have extended the break. Sharjah Indian School Ghubaiba will only have a four-day break, with Monday as a holiday. Principal Pramod Mahajan explained that these holidays had been approved earlier in the academic year and the school had adhered to its original request for a one-day holiday.
In Dubai, The Indian High Group of Schools, with its three campuses serving a large Indian expat community, has declared a three-day break, resulting in a five-day holiday when combined with the weekend. Punit MK Vasu, CEO of The Indian High Group of Schools, mentioned that the school community would take part in Dubai’s special Diwali celebrations, organised by the Department of Economy and Tourism. These festivities, running from October 17 to 26, will include fireworks, cultural performances, and traditional markets. Vasu highlighted the importance of balance in education, emphasising that the extended break allows students, staff, and families to recharge, reconnect, and celebrate Diwali together.
At Credence High School in Dubai, a short midterm break from Monday to Wednesday has been announced, coinciding with Diwali. CEO-Principal Deepika Thapar Singh noted that the school would be infused with Diwali spirit in the days leading up to the break. Traditions like children wearing traditional attire and decorating the lobby will foster unity and cultural harmony across all festivals.
Abu Dhabi Schools
In Abu Dhabi, several schools have confirmed a two-day break on Monday and Tuesday. Dr Thakur S Mulchandani, Director and Principal of Sunrise English Private School, said the school would observe these holidays with approval from the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). He expressed gratitude to ADEK and UAE authorities for permitting the holiday each year, recognising the significance of Diwali for the Indian community. Similarly, Paramjit Ahluwalia, Director and Principal of Dunes International School, mentioned that families were pleased with the long weekend, with many planning to return home for Diwali celebrations.
Limited Breaks for Some
Not all schools are offering extended breaks. DPS Dubai, for instance, has declared Monday a holiday, providing a three-day break, as one of the additional holidays has already been used for Gandhi Jayanti on October 2. This leaves many schools offering varying lengths of holidays based on their internal calendars and approval from education authorities.
As Dubai gears up for its grand Diwali celebrations, which promise to be among the largest outside India, students and their families are preparing to celebrate in the emirate’s festive spirit. From spectacular fireworks to cultural performances and traditional markets, this year’s Diwali festivities will provide a unique experience for residents. The Indian High Group of Schools will be among those taking part in the celebrations, making it a special Diwali for the UAE’s Indian expat community.
For those planning to enjoy the holiday season, the extended breaks provide an opportunity for both celebration and rest, giving families across the UAE a chance to connect and experience the joy of Diwali together.
