School Holidays in Qatar 2024-2025
Contents
Ever wondered what school holidays in Qatar look like and mean for families and businesses? With a unique blend of tradition and modernity, the school calendar in Qatar reflects both local customs and international influences. Whether you're planning for family vacations or looking for the Best Tutoring Companies in Qatar for your children, this post will guide you through the academic year 2024-2025, covering public holidays, term breaks, and more. Please note that dates and schedules may change based on directives from the Ministry of Education and Higher Education.
Overview of School Holidays in Qatar 2024-2025
The Education System in Qatar is determined by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOE). The Ministry of Education and Higher Education is responsible for setting the academic calendar for public schools, while private and international schools, such as those following the International Baccalaureate (IB) or British curriculum, often align their calendars with the Ministry’s guidelines. Since 2012, steps have been taken to unify the school breaks between public and private schools in order to reduce confusion between different curricula, given the large expatriate community in Qatar.
The academic year typically runs from September to July, with public holidays, religious holidays and scheduled term breaks in between. The school year is divided into three terms, with holidays and important term dates occurring at the end of each term. For the official 2024-2025 academic calendar, please visit the government website.
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Public Holidays in Qatar 2024-2025
Public holidays in Qatar are a strong reflection of the country's islamic faith and are determined by the government and include significant religious observances such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, as well as national holidays like Qatar National Day. These holidays are announced by the Amiri Diwan, the sovereign's administrative office, and are usually observed by all schools and businesses across the country.
For the academic year 2024-2025, key public holidays include:
- Qatar National Day (18 December 2024): Celebrates the country’s unification. Schools usually organize special events before closing for the day.
- National Sports Day (11 February 2025):
- Eid al-Fitr (30 March - 2 April 2025): Marks the end of Ramadan. Schools and businesses typically close for a few days.
- Eid al-Adha (5 June - 7 June 2025): Known as the "Festival of Sacrifice." Like Eid al-Fitr, schools and most businesses close during this time.
For the official release in 2024 and official release in 2025, please check out the government website.
Public and Private School Term Dates and Breaks in Qatar 2024-2025
Term breaks in Qatar offer students a rest from their studies. Public schools follow a schedule set by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, which includes breaks at the end of each term. The term breaks for the academic year 2024-2025 are expected to be:
- First Mid-term Holidays: From 27 October 2024 to 31 October 2024
- Second Mid-term Holidays: Starting on 22 December 2024 and finishing on 5 January 2025, this is a slightly longer break compared to the first term break.
- Summer Break: Begins on 6 July 2025, right after the final exams, and lasts until 30 August 2025.
Private and international schools, including those offering IB, IGCSE, and A-Level curricula, may have slight variations in their term breaks. However, these schools generally observe the major public holidays and follow a similar overall structure to the national academic calendar. International schools often incorporate longer winter and summer breaks to accommodate the diverse backgrounds of their student populations. This allows expatriate families to travel home during these extended periods.
Interestingly, if you are comparing school holidays in Qatar with those in neighboring countries, you might notice similarities with the School Holidays in Saudi Arabia, particularly in how the holidays align with Islamic festivals. Both countries prioritize significant religious events such as Eid, and their academic calendars are similarly structured around these key dates.
For the official 2024-2025 academic calendar, please visit the government's website.
Change in School Holidays in Qatar 2024-2025
In addition to the standard public and term breaks, schools in Qatar may observe other holidays based on cultural or religious significance, or specific to their own institutional policies. For instance, Islamic New Year (25 Jun 2025 - 26 Jun 2025) and Prophet Muhammad's Birthday (15 Sept 2024 – 16 Sept 2024) are recognized by many schools, which may close or hold special assemblies. Private schools might also observe additional holidays relevant to the international community, such as Christmas.
Furthermore, in the event of extreme weather conditions, such as high temperatures during the summer, the Ministry of Education may decide to adjust the school schedule to ensure the safety of students. Therefore, it is important for parents to keep a close eye on the exact dates of school holidays announced by their child's school.
List of School Holiday Activities Ideas for Students
- Cultural Tours: Visit the Museum of Islamic Art or the National Museum of Qatar to explore Qatar’s history and culture.
- Sports Camps: Enroll your children in Aspire Zone sports camps, offering football, swimming, and more during cooler months.
- Private Tutoring: Enhance your child’s academic skills with a private tutor during the holidays. Whether you need an IB tutor in Qatar or an SAT tutor in Qatar, the diversity of Qatar's tutoring services has got you covered.
- Creative Workshops: Sign up for art and music classes at Katara Cultural Village, where children can explore their creative side.
- Volunteer Work: Engage in community service through initiatives like Qatar Charity to teach responsibility and empathy.
As an IGCSE tutor in Qatar said,
"School holidays are essential for teenagers to recharge and explore new interests. This break enhances their intellectual development by stimulating creativity and critical thinking, which prepares them for the challenges ahead."Conclusion
Understanding the school holiday schedule in Qatar for 2024-2025 is key to making the most of your family’s time. From public holidays to term breaks, these periods offer opportunities not just for relaxation but also for enrichment. Whether you’re planning family activities or seeking the tutoring companies for your children, staying informed about the academic calendar is crucial for navigating the school holidays in Qatar effectively.
FAQ
What are the typical school hours during Ramadan in Qatar?
During Ramadan, school hours in Qatar are usually shortened to accommodate the fasting schedule. Public and private schools often start later in the morning, around 9:00 AM, and end earlier, around 1:00 PM. This allows students to return home before the peak heat of the day, helping them manage fasting more comfortably. The shortened hours also ensure that students and staff have enough time to rest and prepare for Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast.
How do international schools in Qatar adapt to local holidays?
International schools in Qatar, such as those offering the IB or British curricula, generally observe local holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Qatar National Day. However, they may also include additional holidays relevant to their international community, such as Christmas or Diwali. These schools balance local traditions with international educational standards, sometimes leading to slight variations in their academic calendars compared to local schools. This approach ensures that all students, regardless of background, can celebrate significant cultural and religious events.
Can students expect any changes in the school calendar in Qatar due to unexpected events?
Yes, the school calendar in Qatar can be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances, such as extreme weather conditions or public health concerns. The Ministry of Education and Higher Education may decide to close schools temporarily or shift to online learning during such events. For instance, during high summer temperatures, school hours might be shortened, or outdoor activities could be limited to protect students' health. It’s important for parents and students to stay informed through official channels for any such announcements.
Are there any specific study programs available during school holidays in Qatar?
Yes, several educational institutions and tutoring centers offer study programs during school holidays. These programs can include intensive courses in subjects like mathematics, science, and languages, as well as preparation for exams such as the SAT, IGCSE, and A-Levels. Some programs focus on academic enrichment, while others provide remedial support for students needing extra help. These holiday programs are a great way for students to stay engaged and continue their learning outside the regular school year.
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Written by: Vicky Liu
Vicky has an undergraduate degree from The University of Hong Kong and a Masters from University College London, and has a background in legal and educational writing.
