UAE: From KG graduations to exams, how schools are gearing up for summer break

Schools across the UAE are preparing for the final stretch before the long summer break, with many institutions wrapping up first-term assessments, hosting competitions, award ceremonies, graduation events, and prom nights.

The last day of school for most Dubai private schools following the September to June academic calendar is June 27, 2025.

However, some Indian-curriculum schools will continue until June 30 before breaking for summer. Schools will resume classes after the summer break on August 25.

First-term evaluations

At Credence High School, teachers are managing multiple priorities as the term closes, ensuring a seamless balance between academics and co-curricular celebrations.

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“Teachers are completing first-term evaluations while preparing enrichment opportunities that will bridge into our second term, ensuring continuous learning momentum. Our assessment protocols ensure accurate first-term reporting, while our event management procedures allow us to simultaneously deliver world-class competitions and academic ceremonies without compromising educational standards,” said Deepika Thapar, principal of Credence High School. The school is ending the term on a high note with a flurry of activities.

“These final days have been extraordinary. We have simultaneously hosted the UAE CBSE Judo Championship for both girls and boys — a major sporting achievement at our school. Our Early Years students are celebrating with ‘Joy Fest,’ while older students compete in the iCreate Interschool Competition focusing on AI and STEM innovation. Combined with our award ceremonies recognising academic and extracurricular excellence, these events showcase the complete Credence experience — academic rigor, athletic achievement, and creative innovation,” added Thapar.

While Indian schools conclude their first term, international curricula schools are marking the end of their academic year with celebratory and academic events.

At GEMS World Academy in Abu Dhabi, the final fortnight is equally charged with energy and reflection.

“Our campus is bustling with celebration and planning for the future as the last two weeks of the academic year draw near. As we prepare for the next phases of our students’ academic and personal journeys, our community is uniting to commemorate significant events, such as our unforgettable graduation ceremonies, where we honour the accomplishments and goals of our students,” said Principal Kelvin Hornsby.

Looking ahead, the school is also preparing students for a productive break.

“Additionally, we are providing a variety of summer learning programmes to assist students in strengthening fundamental abilities, rekindling their curiosity, and getting ready with assurance for the upcoming school year. Students can take advantage of an exciting on-campus summer programme that offers enriching activities in innovation, enterprise, physical wellbeing, and national identity through partnerships with ESM Sports, 8billionideas, and Sandooq Al Watan,” he added.

Celebrations at Dubai Opera House

Meanwhile, at GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis (WSO), end-of-year transitions are marked by a series of significant events across the school community.

“As the academic year draws to a close, WSO is alive with celebration and preparation. Primary students have met their new teachers on Transition Day, while secondary learners continue their exams with focus and determination. Graduations and proms for Foundation Stage, Year 6, Year 11 and Year 13 mark key milestones, and academic and sporting awards highlight student excellence,” said Principal Sarah O’Regan.

The school’s creativity is also on full display, with students gearing up for a showstopping performance.

“Our performing arts team is working hard, preparing for the epic Wellington Gala at the Dubai Opera House on June 20, showcasing talent from across the GEMS network. And yet, even with all of these exciting events very much a art of our final weeks, staff remain busy finalising reports, concluding learning, and readying the site for exciting summer improvements, rounding off another exceptional year at WSO,” O’Regan added.