Saudi Schools to Reopen 23 August 2026

Students across Saudi Arabia's general education system are set to return to classrooms on 23 August 2026, marking the start of the new academic year after the summer break. Teachers will report earlier, on 16 August 2026, while administrative staff resume duties on 11 August 2026.

The summer break for students runs from 25 June 2026 to 22 August 2026, giving families a 59-day holiday period before the new term begins. The staggered return dates allow schools time to prepare facilities, finalise schedules and welcome staff ahead of the first day of study.

These dates form part of the official school calendar published by the Ministry of Education, which sets a unified timeline for the general education system nationwide.

What families should know

In the previous 2025–2026 academic year, public schools in several regions reopened in two phases. Most regions began on 17 August 2025, while Mecca, Medina, Jeddah and Taif started later, on 31 August 2025.

Saudi Living reminds parents and guardians that returning to school after the summer break involves no fees or payments of any kind. The reopening is simply a scheduled calendar date and not a paid government service, so no SAR charge applies.

Knowing the return dates in advance helps families in Riyadh, Jeddah and other cities plan travel, uniforms, supplies and childcare arrangements. Marking 23 August 2026 for students, and the earlier staff return dates, can ease the transition into the new academic year.

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