Saudi Arabia ’s Ministry of Education has unveiled significant changes for the upcoming academic year 1447 AH (2025-2026), moving back to a two-semester system and implementing a defined winter shift to streamline school schedules and improve student learning experiences.
The winter shift officially kicks off on November 2, 2025, running through to February 17, 2026. During this period, schools in Riyadh and other major cities will start the academic day early, with the morning assembly beginning at 6:45 a.m. and classes commencing at 7 a.m. This timing adjustment aligns with daylight saving initiatives introduced this year to make better use of natural daylight and optimize school hours.
An important highlight of the new academic calendar is the autumn break , newly introduced this year, which spans nine days from November 21 to November 29. Following this is the mid-year break from January 9 to January 17, 2026, providing students with sufficient rest and a mental reset during the academic year. These breaks are part of the Ministry’s effort to balance study and leisure while maintaining academic rigor.
Saudi Arabia 1447 AH calendar: Winter shift timings, autumn break, and regional adjustments
The academic calendar also takes into consideration Saudi Arabia’s special regional factors. Cities like Makkah and Madinah, which are affected by Hajj season activities, will have adjusted schedules to accommodate local needs. Furthermore, the Ministry assures that education continues with shorter hours during Ramadan, ensuring students' wellbeing and religious observance are respected.
Saudi Arabia’s return to a two-semester system caps a total of 180 instructional days, bringing it in line with international educational frameworks. The Ministry hopes this structure will standardize the academic year across the Kingdom and provide clarity to students, teachers, and parents alike.
Significantly, major holidays are integrated throughout the calendar, including the National Day on September 23, Founding Day on February 22, and Eid al-Fitr holidays from March 6 to March 28, 2026. These official breaks contribute to a well-balanced academic schedule.
For detailed schedules, official announcements, and documents, visit the Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Education’s website ensuring your adequate preparations for the upcoming year.
The winter shift officially kicks off on November 2, 2025, running through to February 17, 2026. During this period, schools in Riyadh and other major cities will start the academic day early, with the morning assembly beginning at 6:45 a.m. and classes commencing at 7 a.m. This timing adjustment aligns with daylight saving initiatives introduced this year to make better use of natural daylight and optimize school hours.
An important highlight of the new academic calendar is the autumn break , newly introduced this year, which spans nine days from November 21 to November 29. Following this is the mid-year break from January 9 to January 17, 2026, providing students with sufficient rest and a mental reset during the academic year. These breaks are part of the Ministry’s effort to balance study and leisure while maintaining academic rigor.
Saudi Arabia 1447 AH calendar: Winter shift timings, autumn break, and regional adjustments
The academic calendar also takes into consideration Saudi Arabia’s special regional factors. Cities like Makkah and Madinah, which are affected by Hajj season activities, will have adjusted schedules to accommodate local needs. Furthermore, the Ministry assures that education continues with shorter hours during Ramadan, ensuring students' wellbeing and religious observance are respected.
Saudi Arabia’s return to a two-semester system caps a total of 180 instructional days, bringing it in line with international educational frameworks. The Ministry hopes this structure will standardize the academic year across the Kingdom and provide clarity to students, teachers, and parents alike.
Significantly, major holidays are integrated throughout the calendar, including the National Day on September 23, Founding Day on February 22, and Eid al-Fitr holidays from March 6 to March 28, 2026. These official breaks contribute to a well-balanced academic schedule.
For detailed schedules, official announcements, and documents, visit the Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Education’s website ensuring your adequate preparations for the upcoming year.
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