Schools across the UAE began implementing the full school attendance schedule on Friday for students across all education stages, following the completion of the gradual return period that started on Monday and continued through Thursday. The move marks the transition to a fully regular school routine as the new academic year gets underway.

Schools circulated attendance requirements to students and parents, confirming that a student who is absent on Friday will have two days of absence recorded in accordance with the Ministry of Education’s attendance policy. Families were urged to encourage their children to attend regularly and avoid unnecessary absences in order to maintain continuity in learning and establish good attendance habits from the beginning of the academic year.

School administrations also stressed in messages to parents that Friday attendance is subject to monitoring and follow-up. Families were asked not to treat the shorter school day as an extension of the weekend, particularly because missing school on Friday results in two days being recorded in the student’s attendance record. Schools also clarified that when a student has an accepted excuse, the parent must submit the excuse and supporting documents to the social specialist responsible for the student’s class so the case can be properly documented.

Schools confirmed that the attendance and behaviour policy has been in effect since the first day of regular student attendance on August 31, 2026. Attendance and absence monitoring is being carried out continuously to strengthen discipline and reduce absenteeism during the first weeks of the academic year. Early and consistent attendance also helps students benefit from scheduled lessons and programmes while reducing the risk of learning gaps or exceeding approved absence limits.

Schools called on families to work closely with school administrations as an essential partnership in supporting student success and building a culture of commitment and responsibility. They stressed that regular attendance on Fridays is important for maintaining educational stability and ensuring students benefit fully from the school day, while also helping create a safe, engaging and motivating learning environment that strengthens students’ sense of belonging and encourages active participation in school life.