The Saudi Ministry of Education has officially announced the dates for the summer vacation for the academic year 1446 AH – 2025 AD, providing students with a well-deserved break after a rigorous school year. The vacation will commence on Thursday, June 25, 2025, corresponding to 28 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 AH, and will last until Sunday, August 23, 2025, which is 1 Safar 1447 AH. This extended period is designed to offer students a chance to relax and recharge after a year filled with educational activities.
In a bid to ensure that students are well-prepared for the upcoming academic year, the summer break has been divided into three key phases. The month of June will serve as an ideal opportunity for students to review previous lessons and prepare for their final exams. Following this, July will be dedicated to conducting these final assessments, allowing students to demonstrate their learning outcomes. Finally, August will focus on organizing time and preparing for the new school term, ensuring that students return to school ready and equipped.
Despite the summer vacation being a time for rest, the Ministry of Education has confirmed that distance learning will continue during this period. Digital educational platforms will be made available, featuring academic content and interactive activities for students to review their subjects. Additionally, training courses will be offered to enhance students' performance in various academic subjects, ensuring that learning does not halt during the break.
Moreover, the Ministry has announced a range of activities aimed at developing students' skills in various fields during the summer. These initiatives include sports programs designed to promote physical fitness and teamwork among students. Cultural programs will also be implemented, contributing to broadening students' horizons and enhancing their general knowledge.
Workshops focusing on creative and technological skills will provide students with opportunities to explore new areas of interest. By engaging in these summer activities, students can improve their personal and social skills while also having the chance to develop hobbies and interests that may not receive attention during the academic year.
In another significant development, starting Wednesday, April 16, 2025, Saudi Arabia will suspend work on transit visas for tourists entering the Kingdom. This decision, made in preparation for the upcoming Hajj season, aims to eliminate any negative practices that could affect the pilgrimage.
According to Yasser Sultan, a member of the Chamber of Tourism Companies, only certain European nationalities will be permitted to use transit visas. These include citizens from countries such as Canada, Germany, Austria, France, Cyprus, the United States, Greece, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, China, Singapore, Thailand, the Maldives, and the United Kingdom. This restriction is part of the Saudi authorities' efforts to ensure that pilgrims adhere to proper procedures and do not exploit loopholes to remain in the Kingdom until the Hajj season.
Moreover, beginning from the first day of Dhu al-Qi'dah, entry into Mecca will be limited to residents of the city or Saudi citizens traveling from other cities for work purposes, provided they have the necessary permits. This measure is aimed at preventing overcrowding and ensuring the safety of pilgrims, especially after the tragic incidents that occurred during the previous Hajj season, which resulted in a rise in fatalities among pilgrims.
Sultan also highlighted that the Saudi authorities have set specific dates regarding the entry and exit of Umrah pilgrims. The end of the stay for Umrah pilgrims and their departure from the Kingdom is scheduled for 1 Dhu al-Qi'dah each year, while the last date for Umrah pilgrims to enter the Kingdom is set for 15 Shawwal each year. The issuance of Umrah visas will commence on 14 Dhu al-Hijjah every year, providing a structured approach to managing the influx of pilgrims.
As the summer vacation approaches, students in Saudi Arabia are looking forward to a break that not only allows them to relax but also provides opportunities to enhance their learning and personal skills. With the Ministry of Education's initiatives and the ongoing adjustments to visa regulations for pilgrims, the Kingdom is taking significant steps to ensure a smooth transition into the new academic year and a successful Hajj season.
