Public schools across the United Arab Emirates are entering an important phase of the first-time examinations for the 2025-2026 academic year. Therefore, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has announced the double absence policy, where students’ absence is going to be counted as double from November 10 and 19 November. However, this policy ensures academic discipline and exam readiness.
The new directive is a part of the updated attendance and absence procedural guide of the ministry. Hence, it aims to motivate consistent attendance and responsible student behaviour as the UAE public schools prepare for the final assessment.
Double Absence Policy: What It Means for Students
One unexcused day of absence will be counted as two under the new UAE double absence policy. Hence, it could directly affect the eligibility of students for passing and promotion. Plus, this adjustment highlights the importance of classroom participation and preparation during the critical days leading up to the exams.
The double absence rule was enforced only on Friday for unexcused absence in the previous terms. However, these regulations will apply throughout all weekdays before exams this term. Hence, this move shows the commitment of the ministry to strengthening student accountability and improving academic performance across the UAE public schools.
Exam Schedule and National Day Break
The central examinations for the first semester are scheduled from November 20 to December 4, 2025. Below are the details of the UAE exam schedules:
- Students will sit for exams from November 20 to 27, followed by a six-day break, which includes UAE National Day celebrations and the weekend.
- The exams will resume on December 4, 2025, concluding the first term assessment period.
This schedule ensure that students can celebrates the 54th UAE national day while still maintaining their focus on their academic responsibilities.
Guidelines for Online Exam Readiness
Schools have also issued advisories to students and parents regarding electronic device readiness as a part of exam preparedness. Schools recommend the following tips to ensure smooth digital examinations:
- Inspecting laptops and tablets in advance to confirm they function properly.
- Reporting and submitting faulty devices to the school’s technical support team for timely maintenance.
- Installing secure browsers from official school-provided links to maintain exam security and integrity.
The ministry has also highlighted that parents are responsible for repair or replacement costs, including broken screens, water damage, or lost chargers. Hence, this measure has ensured that all students have access to fully functional and secure devices during exams.
Parental Role in Supporting Exam Preparation
Schools have also motivated parents to monitor attendance and reinforce discipline at home. Moreover, it would also be best to conduct regular communication with teachers, ensuring a distraction-free environment and timely technical support, as it can significantly enhance student performance.
Parents are further advised to review school circulars and online announcements to stay updated on policies and schedules. By teaming up with schools, families can help maintain a cultural of accountability and learning consistency.
Expert View: Building Academic Responsibility
Education experts in the UAE highlight that the UAE double absence rule promotes a sense of responsibility and time management among students. Moreover, maintaining attendance, discipline, and device readiness are seen as crucial steps toward a more efficient education system, as the digital assessment becomes an integral part of the education system.
The Double Absence Policy also align with the long-term vision of the nation to create a future-ready, digitally empowered generation, capable of adapting to modern educational and professional environments.
A Step Toward Academic Excellence
The Double Absence Policy of the UAE Ministry of Education is a reminder that discipline and consistency are key to academic success. Moreover, parents are encouraged to prioritise attendance, prepare devices early, and ensure full readiness for the examination period from November 20 to December 4, 2025. The initiative highlights the ongoing effort of the UAE to uplift educational standards and nurture responsible learners ready to meet future challenges.
Read more:
UAE Ministry of Education Lists 7 Categories Eligible for Excused Absence as Exams Approach
