With the start of the new 2025-2026 academic year in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, students and teachers are preparing for a new academic year that brings many challenges and opportunities. Among the issues of concern to everyone in this context are the official holidays set for this year according to the schedule prepared by the Ministry of Education.
Beginning of the 2025-2026 academic year
The new academic year in the Kingdom is expected to begin on Sunday, Dhu al-Hijjah 24, 1446 AH, corresponding to September 14, 2025, when students resume classes after a long summer break. Many schools have begun preparing to welcome students, organizing orientation events to welcome new students and distributing the school schedule.
Official holidays during the academic year
Official holidays in the Kingdom this year are distributed to align with the school calendar, encompassing several periods that students and teachers anticipate. Here are the most prominent expected holidays:
National Day holiday
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrates its National Day on September 23rd every year, which this year falls on a Tuesday, meaning students will have a two-day holiday (Tuesday and Wednesday).
First semester vacation
The first semester break is expected to begin on Thursday, Rabi' al-Thani 4, 1447 AH, corresponding to November 20, 2025, with students returning to school on Sunday, Rabi' al-Thani 14, 1447 AH, corresponding to November 30, 2025.
Second semester vacation
Students will have a mid-year break on Thursday, Shawwal 4, 1447 AH, corresponding to February 8, 2026. Students are scheduled to return to school on Sunday, Shawwal 14, 1447 AH, corresponding to February 16, 2026.
Eid al-Fitr holiday
The Eid al-Fitr holiday is determined according to the Hijri calendar and typically lasts for 10 days, beginning Thursday, Ramadan 25, 1447 AH (corresponding to May 17, 2026), including the Eid al-Fitr holiday. Students will resume their studies after Eid on Sunday, Shawwal 5, 1447 AH (corresponding to May 30, 2026).
Eid al-Adha holiday
Eid al-Adha holiday is expected to fall on Thursday, Dhu al-Hijjah 9, 1447 AH, corresponding to July 30, 2026. The holiday will last for a full week, with students returning to school after the holiday on Sunday, Dhu al-Hijjah 19, 1447 AH, corresponding to August 9, 2026.
Third semester vacation
The 2025-2026 academic year concludes on Thursday, Dhu al-Hijjah 30, 1447 AH, corresponding to August 13, 2026, when students begin their summer vacation.
Academic calendar changes this year
According to the academic calendar prepared by the Ministry of Education, the academic year is divided into three semesters this year. This means dividing the study period into more varied periods to reduce the pressure of studying for students and achieve a balance between academic achievement and rest.
The importance of vacations in enhancing educational performance
Vacations are one of the most important aspects of the educational process, allowing students and teachers the opportunity to rest and recharge. Vacations also help boost academic performance by reducing stress and motivating students to return to school with greater energy. Vacations serve as a period of academic and social preparation, contributing to students' overall growth.
Impact on school activities
The holidays of the new academic year are interspersed with a range of school-related activities, such as cultural and sporting events, which contribute to improving the school environment and raising students' levels of physical and mental activity.
The new academic year in Saudi Arabia is a golden opportunity to improve educational quality and enhance academic activity. The Ministry of Education is working to provide a conducive learning environment for students and teachers alike. Vacations remain a key factor in maintaining academic achievement and psychological well-being for students and teachers, benefiting the entire educational process.
