Educational leaders across the United Arab Emirates are raising concerns about potential academic setbacks during the country’s extended winter vacation period. With students embarking on a four-week break from December 8, 2025, to January 4, 2026, school administrators emphasize the delicate balance between necessary rest and maintaining educational momentum.
Principals from multiple institutions have expressed that while downtime is crucial for student wellbeing, complete academic disengagement can result in significant learning regression. Research indicates that prolonged breaks may cause students to lose approximately 20-30% of their term gains in fundamental subjects like mathematics and literacy.
Natalia Klykova, Principal of Woodlem British School in Ajman, explained their balanced approach: “We deliberately avoid traditional homework assignments, instead providing optional, curiosity-driven activities. These include brief daily reading sessions, practical kitchen measurements, nature observation journals, and pattern recognition exercises.”
At Gems Founders School in Dubai, Executive Principal Matthew Burfield referenced OECD findings documenting measurable declines in academic achievement following extended holidays. “While we make digital learning platforms available,” Burfield noted, “we respect family diversity and avoid imposing rigid frameworks during vacation time.”
Curriculum specialists advocate for “low-pressure academic continuity” through simple daily routines. Shanthi Subramanian, Head of Curriculum at The Oxford School Dubai, recommends integrating education into everyday activities: “Reading for pleasure for 10-15 minutes daily, involving children in budgeting and measurement tasks, and engaging educational board games can maintain cognitive engagement without pressure.”
Schools are preparing for a supportive return in January 2026, implementing soft-start days, structured revision sessions, and wellbeing check-ins to help students readjust over an anticipated three-to-five day transition period.