In a decisive move reflecting the country’s deep-rooted Islamic identity, the United Arab Emirates has formally directed all public schools to observe congregational Dhuhr (noon) prayers during school hours. The Ministry of Education, in a statement released via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, confirmed that the policy took full effect from Thursday, September 12, 2025, across 512 government-run schools nationwide.
According to the directive, public schools are now required to suspend all academic activities daily during Dhuhr prayer time — typically between 1:15 PM and 1:45 PM — with no exemptions for students or teaching staff. The new schedule mandates that students themselves lead the adhan (call to prayer), prepare prayer spaces, and participate in strictly gender-separated congregational prayers.
The policy underscores the UAE’s commitment to embedding moral and spiritual values into its education system.
In reinforcing this, the Ministry described schools not just as centres of academic learning, but as “homes of values,” a sentiment that reflects the country’s wider social and cultural vision.
While private schools are not formally bound by the directive, many have voluntarily adopted similar practices in line with community expectations and national ethos.
Under the new rules, school administrations are expected to assign student muezzins, designate prayer halls, and maintain consistent records of participation. Observers have described the development as one that not only reinforces discipline and religious consciousness among the youth but also fosters leadership and responsibility from an early age.
Officials within the Ministry of Education have reiterated that this is not just a religious exercise, but part of a broader educational philosophy that integrates ethical upbringing with scholastic achievement. They stressed that instilling values such as discipline, respect, and devotion in students is a key national priority.
The UAE, known for balancing modernity with tradition, has increasingly taken steps to ensure its younger generation remains rooted in Islamic principles, even as they navigate the demands of a rapidly evolving world. This latest decision is being seen as a continuation of that vision — one that positions spiritual wellbeing as foundational to nation-building.
