Dubai: The UAE has entered 2026 with a wave of policy changes, infrastructure projects and legal reforms that will affect daily life for residents, families, commuters, students and businesses.
From transport and banking to education, environmental rules and new federal laws, several updates have already taken effect, while others will roll out in the months ahead. Here is a clear breakdown of the most important changes to know about this year.
- Friday prayer time changes and shorter school days
Friday sermons and prayers across the UAE are now held at 12.45pm, following an announcement by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat. The change came into effect on January 2, 2026.
As a result, schools in the UAE will end earlier on Fridays. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority has directed private schools and early childhood centres to finish the school day no later than 11.30am on Fridays from January 9, 2026, giving students and staff adequate time to return home before prayers.
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