With the end of the Eid al-Adha holiday for the year 1447 AH, millions of students across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are preparing to return to their classrooms. The students' return to school tomorrow, Tuesday, the 16th of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH (June 2, 2026), marks the beginning of the final and crucial phase of the third semester, with attention now focused on final preparations for the exams that will determine the outcomes of a year filled with hard work and dedication.
The resumption of studies comes within the framework of the three-semester system implemented by the Ministry of Education in the Kingdom, which aims to distribute the academic workload throughout the year and improve educational outcomes. The period following the Eid al-Adha holiday is considered crucial, as it is during this time that the curriculum is completed and efforts are focused on intensive review in preparation for the final exams, which represent the gateway to the next academic stage or graduation.
The end-of-year marathon: from holiday vibes to exam halls
This return to school comes after a period of rest and social celebrations for Eid al-Adha, presenting students with the challenge of final review and academic focus. The academic calendar approved by the Ministry of Education provides a clear roadmap for this period, with final exams for the third semester scheduled to begin in most regions of the Kingdom on Sunday, Dhul Hijjah 28, 1447 AH (June 14, 2026). Over the next few days, schools will intensify classes and review sessions to ensure students are fully prepared to successfully navigate these exams, which represent the culmination of their year-long efforts.
The specifics of the calendar and the impact of Hajj on students returning to their studies
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has a unique character closely linked to the Hajj season, which directly impacts the academic calendar in some regions. In consideration of the massive operational and logistical arrangements involved in receiving pilgrims, a special schedule has been developed for schools in Mecca, Jeddah, Taif, and Medina. Accordingly, final exams in these areas will commence later, specifically on Sunday, Muharram 6, 1448 AH (June 21, 2026). This strategic adjustment aims to alleviate pressure on infrastructure, ensure the smooth flow of pilgrims, and underscores the integration of various government sectors in serving this great pillar of Islam without disrupting the educational process.
End of school year break and start of a new year
Once the marathon of exams is over, students will begin reaping the rewards of their hard work with the start of the end-of-year break. In most regions of the Kingdom, the break will begin at the end of the school day on Thursday, Muharram 10, 1448 AH (June 25, 2026). However, in the regions of Makkah, Jeddah, Taif, and Madinah, the break will begin on Thursday, Muharram 17, 1448 AH (July 2, 2026). Regarding preparations for the new academic year 1448 AH, the calendar specifies the return of administrative and supervisory staff on Sunday, Safar 28, 1448 AH, followed by practicing teachers on Sunday, Rabi' al-Awwal 3. The actual start of classes for students will be on Sunday, Rabi' al-Awwal 10, 1448 AH, marking the beginning of a new educational journey.
