(Credit - Khaleej Times)
Dubai Public Holiday June 15 2026 Gives Schools and Universities a Hijri New Year Break, Here’s What Changes
The Dubai public holiday on June 15, 2026, a Monday, has been confirmed for the emirate’s education sector, with schools and universities closing their doors to mark the Hijri New Year (Islamic New Year 1448). Normal academic schedules resume the following day, Tuesday, June 16.
How the Three-Day Break Shapes Up for Dubai Families
For households running on a Saturday, Sunday weekend, the Monday closure effectively extends the break to three consecutive days. That means the last school day before the holiday falls on Friday, June 12, and the first day back is Tuesday, June 16, a window that school administrators, parents, and students will need to factor into lesson pacing, upcoming assessments, and any campus-based services.
The holiday applies across Dubai’s education sector, both schools and universities, aligning the academic calendar with the national observance of the Hijri New Year. While the announcement covers the education sector specifically, families should check directly with their institution for any adjustments to exam schedules, transport routes, or campus facility hours around the long weekend.
What Dubai Parents and Students Should Sort Before Monday
Schools operating under the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) framework in Dubai will be closed on June 15. University campuses across the emirate follow the same closure. Parents relying on school bus services should confirm with their transport provider whether routes operate on the days immediately surrounding the holiday, particularly Friday, June 12. Administrative offices at universities, including registration, library access, and student services, are expected to follow the closure, though individual institutions may communicate their own arrangements.
- Holiday Date: Monday, June 15, 2026 (Hijri New Year / Islamic New Year 1448)
- Sector Covered: Dubai schools and universities
- Classes Resume: Tuesday, June 16, 2026
- Weekend Effect: Three-day break for Saturday, Sunday weekend households (June 13, 15)
Dubai’s education sector gets a one-day pause on Monday, June 15, 2026, for the Hijri New Year, with the academic calendar picking back up on June 16. For many families, the timing creates a natural three-day break that warrants a quick check on school transport, exam dates, and campus services. Institutions under KHDA oversight are covered by the announcement, and parents are advised to confirm any schedule-specific details directly with their school or university before the weekend.
UAE flight cancellations hit Kuwait routes
UAE Airlines Cancel Kuwait Flights Amid Tensions
Etihad Airways, Emirates, Air Arabia, and flydubai have cancelled flights to Kuwait as Gulf tensions disrupt UAE operations. Etihad has extended the suspension of selected Kuwait services until July 24, 2026. Passengers travelling between the UAE and Kuwait face disruption due to the cancellations, which were prompted by operational reasons amid heightened regional tensions.
The latest cancellations come after Iranian military strikes targeted US facilities in Kuwait and Bahrain, leading airlines to adjust their operations. Etihad Airways said flights EY653 and EY654 between Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport and Kuwait International Airport have been cancelled until July 24, 2026. Emirates has also cancelled flight EK857 from Dubai to Kuwait.
Kuwait International Airport had resumed operations on June 1, 2026, following a phased reopening plan, but the current tensions have led to further disruptions. The airlines have urged affected passengers to ensure their contact details are updated to receive the latest flight information.
This development is linked to the earlier announcement of US global travel caution issued in response to the escalating tensions in the region.
Dubai Smart Gates Eligibility Check
Skip Dubai Airport Queues with Smart Gates Eligibility Check
Travellers arriving at or departing from Dubai International Airport (DXB) can now check their eligibility for Smart Gates online before flying. The Smart Gates PreCheck tool allows passengers to scan their passports and confirm access to biometric gates, reducing immigration waiting times.
To check eligibility, travellers can use the Smart Gates PreCheck tool, which is accessible online. This tool takes less than a minute to complete and reveals whether passengers can skip traditional passport control queues and use biometric gates.
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai has introduced this service to help travellers avoid traditional queues and utilize the expanding biometric border technology for faster processing. With this tool, passengers can clear immigration in just a few seconds.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Check | Smart Gates PreCheck tool |
| Processing Time | <td Less than a minute
Required documents for the Smart Gates PreCheck tool include:
- A valid passport
- Access the Smart Gates PreCheck tool online.
- Scan your passport using the tool.
- Confirm your eligibility for Smart Gates.
Last updated: July 20, 2026
Dubai Airport capacity near full
Dubai Airports Defy Regional Tensions, Operate Near Full Capacity
Dubai International Airport, a major hub in the UAE, is operating near full capacity despite the ongoing regional conflict. According to Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, the airport has maintained strong passenger traffic, with airlines rerouting flights and Emirates offsetting some foreign carrier shortfalls.
The airport's resilience can be attributed to its effective management and the increased capacity provided by Emirates airline. As a result, Dubai Airport's operations have not been significantly impacted by the regional tensions, and it continues to serve as a major transit point for travelers.
The strong passenger traffic at Dubai Airport reflects the UAE's aviation infrastructure and its ability to adapt to challenging situations. With Emirates playing a crucial role in offsetting the shortfalls of foreign carriers, the airport has been able to maintain its operations and provide a seamless travel experience for passengers.
The fact that Dubai Airport is operating near full capacity is a positive sign for the UAE's economy, which relies heavily on tourism and travel. The airport's ability to withstand regional tensions and maintain its operations is a reflection of the country's strong aviation infrastructure and its commitment to providing a world-class travel experience.
Regarding the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the airport's resilience and ability to operate near full capacity is a significant achievement. The agenda aims to make Dubai a leading hub for trade, tourism, and investment, and the airport's performance is a key indicator of the city's progress towards this goal.
As the regional situation continues to evolve, it is likely that Dubai Airport will remain a critical transit point for travelers. With its strong infrastructure and effective management, the airport is well-equipped to handle the challenges posed by regional tensions and continue to operate near full capacity.
US visa UAE: Students face appointment crisis
UAE Students Face US Visa Appointment Crisis
The US Embassy Abu Dhabi and US Consulate General Dubai are among the diplomatic posts affected by the limited routine visa operations in the region. UAE-based families are struggling to secure US visa appointments for university students, with high denial rates and canceled appointments. The situation remains fluid, with the US State Department advising Americans to depart several Middle Eastern countries due to serious safety risks.
US Visa Appointment Challenges for UAE Students
UAE students heading to US universities face significant challenges in securing US visa appointments. Denial rates for US Student visas have been high, with education experts citing documentation gaps, weak preparation, and unclear intent as common pitfalls. The US Embassy Abu Dhabi and US Consulate General Dubai have limited routine visa operations, and applicants are advised to check the official embassy websites daily for rescheduling guidance.
The US State Department has issued a travel advisory, urging Americans to depart several Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE, due to safety risks. This has resulted in canceled routine visa appointments and delays in visa processing. Airspace closures and flight suspensions are also limiting travel across the region, making it difficult for students to attend their visa interviews.
Impact on UAE Students and Families
The limited visa operations and high denial rates are causing significant disruptions for UAE students and families. Many students are facing uncertainty about their ability to attend their chosen universities in the US, and families are struggling to secure appointments for their children. The situation is further complicated by the requirement for students to apply for their visas in the country where they live, making it difficult for those who have already made travel arrangements.
Next Steps for UAE Students and Families
UAE students and families affected by the visa appointment crisis can check the official US Embassy and Consulate websites for updates on visa operations and rescheduling guidance. They can also consider seeking guidance from education experts and immigration lawyers to help navigate the complex visa application process. Additionally, students can review the interview wait times for the location where they will apply and plan accordingly.
The US State Department's advisory to Americans to depart several Middle Eastern countries has significant implications for US visa operations in the region. The limited routine visa operations and high denial rates are causing disruptions for UAE students and families, and it is essential for them to stay informed about the latest developments and seek guidance from relevant authorities.
UAE Events Visit Visa Explained
How to Apply for UAE Events Visit Visa
If you're planning to attend a conference, exhibition, or festival in the UAE, you may be eligible for the country's specialized Events Visit Visa. The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai) has clarified the rules and application process for this dedicated entry permit.
The Events Visit Visa is a temporary entry permit that allows international visitors to attend or participate in economic, cultural, educational, sporting, religious, and community events across the UAE. It is intended for participants, exhibitors, and visitors attending conferences, summits, international exhibitions, conventions, and cultural, sports, and entertainment festivals. The visa is linked to approved events, with organizers required to obtain the necessary approvals and submit details of the event, including the number of expected international participants.
The organiser-led application process requires the hosting entity to apply for an approved participant quota, specifying the expected number of attendees. Once the quota is approved, organizers can sponsor visa applications for invited guests traveling to the UAE. Applicants must submit a sponsorship letter from the organizer outlining the nature of the event and its duration, along with other supporting documents. The visa caters to a wide range of events, including international conferences and corporate summits, trade exhibitions and business conventions, cultural, entertainment, and sports festivals, educational forums and academic gatherings, community programs and public events, and religious and economic meetings.
For event organizers, the process begins with obtaining the necessary approvals and submitting event details to the GDRFA Dubai. This includes specifying the expected number of international participants. Once approved, organizers can then sponsor visa applications for their invited guests. For international visitors, the application process involves submitting a sponsorship letter from the event organizer, along with other required documents.
Here are the steps to apply for the UAE Events Visit Visa:
- Check if the event you are attending is approved by the GDRFA Dubai.
- Obtain a sponsorship letter from the event organizer, outlining the nature of the event and its duration.
- Submit the sponsorship letter and other supporting documents to the GDRFA Dubai.
- Wait for the visa application to be processed and approved.
