Ramadan Brings Remote Learning Benefits to UAE

Ramadan Fridays in Education: Online Learning and Family Values in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates has introduced a new measure that combines modern technological opportunities with social and religious values. During the 2026 Ramadan period, students in state schools will switch to remote learning on Fridays, while teachers and educational staff will continue to work on-site. This step not only caters to student convenience but also highlights the importance of family gatherings under the 'Ramadan with Family' initiative.

Flexible Learning Opportunities on Fridays

According to the announcement, state school students will participate in online classes on Fridays. The decision is based on the guidelines of the Ministry of Education, which highlights that while digital education will be the default, parents can choose for their children to attend Friday classes in person. In that case, transporting the children to and from school will be the parents' responsibility.

This option considers varying family needs and circumstances, as well as the students' age and technical capabilities. Therefore, the decision is influenced not only by logistical but also by community and educational considerations.

Family and Faith: Goals of the 'Ramadan with Family' Program

The new educational system is not standalone but is closely linked to the 2026 'Year of the Family' campaign. The Friday remote learning is part of the 'Ramadan with Family' program, aimed at deepening connections between parents and children, especially during Ramadan. The spiritual messages of the month — self-reflection, giving, and togetherness — are thus reflected not only on a religious but also on an educational level.

The initiative is accompanied by a detailed methodological handbook that suggests joint learning and developmental activities for families. These activities, based on the school curriculum, promote students' academic progress while reinforcing community responsibility and family unity values.

Teacher Presence and Work Schedule: Ensuring Uninterrupted Education

While students join Friday classes from home, teachers continue to work physically on school premises. This arrangement ensures the operation of administrative and technical backgrounds and also allows parents who choose in-person attendance for their children to receive appropriate teacher support.

This hybrid model offers a flexible yet structured solution that balances effective education with the expectations of the spiritual month.

Reduced Working Hours in Private and Public Sectors

Changes during Ramadan aren't limited to education, as work regulations also adapt to the festive period. The UAE Ministry of Labor has reduced daily working hours by two in the private sector for the entire duration of Ramadan. Additionally, companies are allowed to establish flexible or remote-based schedules if compatible with their business nature.

For public sector employees, the daily working hours have also been modified: work is between 9:00 am and 2:30 pm from Monday to Thursday, and 9:00 am to 12:00 pm on Fridays, except for roles that justify different schedules.

The Start of Ramadan: When Does the Holy Month Begin?

In most Muslim countries — including the UAE — the sky is observed on February 17 to sight the crescent that marks the start of Ramadan. However, astronomical forecasts suggest that this year, the crescent will not be visible from any point in the Arab and Islamic world on February 17. This means that the Shaban month will complete 30 days, and Ramadan is expected to begin on February 19, Thursday.

This one to two-day discrepancy is entirely customary in the Muslim world, as the lunar calendar's characteristics necessitate visual confirmation each year. Therefore, the UAE always makes its official decision based on internationally recognized moon sighting standards.

Conclusion

The Friday remote learning introduced during the 2026 Ramadan is part of the UAE's efforts to integrate modern technology and traditional values into public service development. The decision considers family needs, supports the reinforcement of religious values, while ensuring the smooth operation of education.

Flexible work and learning methods, strengthened community spirit, and effective organization together contribute to Ramadan being not just a religious obligation but a period for the development of deeper human connections — within families, communities, and the nation.