Sharjah Caps Ramadan School Day at Six Hours for Private Schools

Private schools in Sharjah may set their own Ramadan timetables, with the school day capped at six hours. The Sharjah Private Education Authority outlined the rules in a circular that allows schools to determine start and finish times for students and teaching staff in line with approved academic calendars and curriculum requirements, while maintaining continuity and quality of learning.

The circular stated that schedules should account for differences between educational stages, allowing flexibility and fairness in organising the school day and supporting students’ educational and psychological needs. It also urged schools to consider quality-of-life factors for students, parents and staff throughout the holy month. Several private school operators in the emirate have begun preparing adjusted timetables in line with the circular. Preparations include reduced hours for kindergarten and primary levels, along with adjusted class periods and activities. The guidance applies to private schools in Sharjah and is to be implemented within existing academic calendars and curriculum requirements.