The ongoing debate over school timings in the UAE has intensified as Khalaf Ahmed Al Habtoor, a prominent billionaire and head of Dubai’s Al Habtoor Group, reiterates his call for shorter school days. Speaking on November 14, 2025, Al Habtoor emphasized that the quality of education should not be measured by the number of hours students spend in classrooms. This is not the first time he has raised this issue; a similar appeal in May sparked widespread discussions among parents, many of whom agreed that extended school hours are detrimental to children’s energy, health, and family life. Al Habtoor argued that prolonged school schedules often lead to student fatigue, diminished enthusiasm, and a loss of focus, turning education into a burden rather than a joyful experience. He urged the UAE’s Ministry of Education and Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) to reconsider school hours, not to reduce learning but to enhance its quality. Citing Switzerland’s successful educational model, Al Habtoor highlighted how Swiss students benefit from shorter, balanced academic blocks with regular breaks, allowing their minds to rest and function effectively. He also pointed out that many of the UAE’s founding leaders were educated in schools with shorter hours, yet they achieved remarkable success through determination, intelligence, and a strong work ethic. The debate has gained traction as Dubai residents grapple with increasing traffic congestion, further fueling calls for reforms in school timings.
‘Children are not machines’: UAE billionaire reiterates call for shorter school days
