Ministry of Education Announces Winter Holidays for Schools in 2025
The Saudi Ministry of Education has officially announced a break for students at the end of the second semester of the 2024-2025 academic year. Schools across Saudi Arabia will enjoy a 9-day winter holiday from Friday, February 9, to Saturday, March 1, 2025. Teaching and learning will restart on Sunday, March 2.
Winter Holidays: A Welcomed Break
The announcement has excited students and parents alike, as it marks the conclusion of the second semester before the long-awaited break. This two-week period will allow students and educators to recharge before continuing with the academic year. The Ministry of Education has confirmed that all schools in the kingdom will remain closed during this time.
Foundation Day Celebrations
In addition to the winter holidays, the holiday period coincides with Saudi Arabia’s Foundation Day celebrations. Foundation Day, observed annually on February 22, commemorates the establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Schools will remain closed during this important national event.
Ramadan School Timings
The Ministry of Education had previously announced school timings during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan. The adjusted schedule will see morning shifts starting at 9 a.m., afternoon shifts beginning at 1 p.m., and the third shift kicking off at 9:30 p.m. This change will ensure students can observe their religious duties and maintain their academic commitments during this critical month.
Preparing for Examinations and Student Results
The Ministry emphasized completing all academic record updates as part of the end-of-semester activities. This includes correcting, monitoring, and reviewing subject records in the e-education system, “Noor.” Schools are also tasked with finalizing student results for the holiday break.
The Ministry also stressed the need to prepare a schedule for the second round of secondary school examinations. Schools must develop an alternative examination schedule for students who have missed exams to ensure no student is left behind.
Looking Ahead
While students look forward to their winter break, the Ministry of Education is taking the necessary steps to ensure that academic schedules and student assessments remain on track. As the holidays draw near, students can enjoy their time off knowing their educational needs are being met.
FAQs
Q1: How long is the holiday break in Saudi schools?
The holiday break lasts nine days, from February 9 to March 1, 2025.
Q2: When will classes resume after the holidays?
Classes will resume on March 2, 2025.
Q3: What are the new school timings during Ramadan?
During Ramadan, the morning shift will start at 9 a.m., the afternoon shift at 1 p.m., and the third shift at 9:30 p.m.
Q4: What is the Noor system?
The Noor system is an e-education platform Saudi schools use to manage student records, including grades and examination schedules.
