Bahrain: No Ramadan Holiday for Students in Final 10 Days

October 16, 2025

Bahraini government declines parliamentary request for special break during Ramadan’s last ten days, citing mandatory 180 teaching days and fixed exam schedules under Education Law No. 27 of 2005.

bahrain national flag against clear blue sky

Photo by Fadhel Madan

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Key Takeaways

Lesson times already adjusted during Ramadan
180 teaching days required by Bahraini education law
Exam schedules prevent curriculum change

MANAMA — Bahrain’s government has formally rejected a parliamentary proposal to grant students holidays during the final ten days of Ramadan, citing legal requirements for minimum teaching days and fixed examination schedules.

In an official parliamentary response, authorities explained that Education Law No. 27 of 2005 mandates at least 180 teaching days for basic and secondary education, leaving no flexibility for additional breaks.

The decision follows an urgent recommendation filed by MPs Hassan Bukhammas, Munir Seroor, Mohammed Al Ahmed, Ahmed Qarata and Mohammed Al Alaiwi in March.

The parliamentarians sought special leave for students during Ramadan’s concluding period, which includes Laylat al-Qadr, arguing that time away from classes would facilitate worship and reduce academic pressure during heightened religious activities.

Government officials responded that lesson schedules already undergo modification during Ramadan to balance educational requirements with the month’s spiritual demands.

A specialized committee annually designs academic calendars, examination dates, and official holidays following detailed studies. The current system will complete syllabi without reducing content or compromising educational standards.

Bahrain’s education authorities emphasized that granting a ten-day break would reduce actual teaching days, potentially weakening student achievement and forcing alterations to curricula and assessment schedules.

The disruption would prove most severe as final examinations approach, affecting student preparation during a critical academic period.

The response noted that public higher education institutions face similar constraints, where lost instructional time could prevent completion of modules required by accreditation and quality standards.

University schedules follow defined academic requirements aligned with international practices, leaving limited room for adjustment.

The Bahraini government maintains that the proposal’s intent already finds fulfillment through existing Ramadan scheduling adaptations. Officials expressed continued willingness to collaborate with Parliament while prioritizing student interests and education quality.