With the beginning of the month of Ramadan, a gentle shift is felt across the UAE in daily routines, community life, and the shared focus on reflection, generosity and togetherness. Within our school environment, this time of year is recognised with sensitivity and respect, creating a meaningful experience for students, families and staff.

As a British curriculum school in Dubai with a diverse and inclusive community, we acknowledge Ramadan as an important part of the cultural calendar in the UAE. It is observed in ways that are thoughtful, age-appropriate and centred on shared human values that students can understand and practise in everyday school life.

During Ramadan, the school day during Ramadan is adjusted to support families and students observing the month. School hours run from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, allowing for a balanced routine while maintaining learning continuity. The shorter schedule brings a naturally calmer pace to the day, which aligns well with the reflective nature of the season.

Throughout the month, classroom activities during Ramadan place gentle emphasis on values such as kindness, patience, gratitude, generosity and self-control. These themes are approached in a universal way, making them meaningful for students of all backgrounds and age groups within an inclusive school community.

Teachers encourage thoughtful behaviour, empathy toward others, and an awareness of community values in schools. Simple actions such as being considerate, offering help, showing appreciation are reinforced through daily interactions across the school.

Arabic lessons in Dubai schools during this period naturally connect with local culture and traditions, helping students build awareness and understanding in a comfortable and inclusive way.

In the period leading up to Ramadan, the school community also marked Haq Al Laila, a well-known UAE seasonal tradition. Students took part in performances and interactive activities that introduced the background and customs associated with the occasion. Engagement through performances and student participation made the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Moments like these allow children to connect with local culture in the UAE through experience and participation, helping build awareness alongside confidence and teamwork.

This time of year is widely associated with gathering and connection, and that spirit is reflected within the school community in Dubai. Shared moments and seasonal school gatherings help strengthen relationships between families and staff and create opportunities for relaxed interaction beyond the regular school routine.

A parent iftar at school forms part of this community atmosphere, offering families an opportunity to come together in a familiar and welcoming setting. Such occasions support the sense that school is not only a place of learning, but also a place of connection.

Seasonal moments like Ramadan provide a natural opportunity to reinforce values-based learning in schools and student character development. By focusing on positive habits and shared values, students are encouraged to carry these qualities forward beyond the month itself.

Through a calm environment, adjusted routines, cultural awareness in schools, and values-based engagement, Ramadan in schools is acknowledged in a way that is respectful, inclusive and meaningful for the entire community.