Saudi Schools Adjust Timings for Ramadan With Later Starts and Shorter Periods
February 16, 2026
Saudi Arabia's education departments have finalized new school schedules for Ramadan. Morning classes will start later, mostly between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. Adult and continuing education classes will shift to evening hours. The changes help fasting students and staff while keeping education effective and operations smooth.
In the Qassim Region, schools will start at 10 a.m., with adult classes kicking off at 9:30 p.m. Staff must arrive 15 minutes early. Makkah schools open at 9 a.m., adult classes begin at 9:30 p.m., and official working hours are cut to five hours daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Riyadh schools will start at 9 a.m., with evening classes at 9 p.m.
Eastern Province and Tabuk schools begin at 9:30 a.m.; continuing education starts at 9 p.m. In Al-Baha, all schools and kindergartens open at 9 a.m. and adult classes at 9 p.m., with class periods shortened to 35 minutes. Al-Jouf schools start at 9:30 a.m., and continuing education at 9 p.m. First periods will start exactly on time.
Education authorities say these changes balance Ramadan's fasting and daily rhythms with learning needs. Makkah's directorate noted the reduced five-hour workday preserves efficiency and discipline. Officials across regions must follow the new timings closely and work with the community to uphold academic standards and smooth operations during the holy month.
The staggered and flexible start times reflect a thoughtful approach, respecting Ramadan's spirit while keeping education on track in Saudi Arabia.
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Tags:
Ramadan
Saudi arabia
School Schedule
Education
Fasting
Academic
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