From January 9, schools across the UAE will shorten Fridays to help students and families align with the new 12.45pm Friday prayer time. For kindergarten, classes will run from 8am to 11.30am. Grades 1 to 4 (Cycle 1) will have staggered timings: one group from 7.10am to 10.30am, the other from 8am to 11.30am. This allows parents to pick up children earlier and attend prayers without rushing, yet still complete required school hours. Students in grades 6 to 12 (Cycles 2 and 3) have different timings for boys and girls. Boys will attend from 7.10am to 10.30am, girls from 8am to 11.30am. Schools may offer online classes for grades 6 and above on Fridays with approval from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and parents. Dubai’s KHDA stated all private schools and early childhood centres must end Friday lessons by 11.30am starting January 9. Many schools have already informed parents about the new schedule. KHDA said schools can use staggered dismissal to reduce disruption and adjust to operational needs. This shift follows the nationwide move of Friday prayer to 12.45pm by the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Awqaf and Zakat. The change affects family routines too. Parents mention challenges in managing traffic, work, and childcare in the short time between school pick-up and prayers. KHDA described the move as "a balance between students’ well-being and curriculum requirements," ensuring education continues effectively while giving families time for Friday prayers.