Did You Know 13
A Roadmap for Four Years The Ministry of Education has released a clear four-year academic calendar that locks in the two-semester system until 2030. Highlights of each academic year include: T wo terms, 59 holiday days (excluding summer break)
“Educational quality depends more on teacher preparation, curriculum development, and strong school environments than on the number of semesters alone,” a Ministry statement emphasised. The two-semester model is not a step back but a recalibration that allows schools to maintain global standards while respecting the unique demands of the Kingdom’s cultural and religious life. Towards a More Flexible System This move reflects a student-centred and region-sensitive approach. By aligning instructional days with international best practice while giving flexibility where it is most needed, Saudi Arabia is showing how education reform can be both rigorous and adaptable. The result is an academic system that is globally competitive yet deeply rooted in local context. For families, teachers, and students, it promises a rhythm of learning that feels both sustainable and inspiring. Education Saudi will continue to track how schools and regions adapt to this new academic structure, and what it means for the broader vision of education under Vision 2030.
C ontinuation of the two-term model with similar holidays T he two-term format allocates time- off to align with national and religious breaks Includes a dedicated spring break in addition to Eid and other holidays
The roadmap continues through to 1451H (2029–2030), with each year including strategically placed breaks to support student well-being and teaching effectiveness. Beyond the Calendar While this decision represents a significant structural change, the Ministry was clear that true educational quality rests on more than the number of terms. Teacher training, curriculum innovation, governance, and learning environments remain central to improving outcomes.
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
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