Some schools in the UAE are granting an extended 4-day weekend for students to celebrate Diwali. However, celebrations on campuses are toned down due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Gems Our Own Indian School will remain closed on November 10 and 13, providing a four-day weekend for students. The principal, Lalitha Suresh, noted that on-campus Diwali celebrations would be low-key, with educational activities. Students are encouraged to contribute to the Emirates Red Crescent campaign for Gaza.
Shining Star International in Abu Dhabi has canceled major celebrations, recognizing the devastating situation in Gaza. The school has halted music and dance activities, focusing on essential curriculum aspects and expressing collective prayers for regional peace.
In Sharjah, Sharjah Indian School has given a day off for Diwali but canceled festivities. Pramod Mahajan, the principal, mentioned that the school is mindful of the situation and has refrained from distributing sweets.
Several UAE schools have set up collection boxes for donations to aid Gaza civilians. Gems Education suspended celebratory events, including religious celebrations like Diwali, in light of the ongoing conflict.
Students, initially disappointed, have come to support the decisions of their schools. Sri Hari, a Grade 7 student at Shining Star International, expressed understanding and endorsed the school’s decision to redirect funds meant for celebrations to help victims.
Faisal, a Grade 9 student, highlighted the positive initiative of not celebrating special days this year to show solidarity with the victims in Gaza. Salem, another Grade 9 student, emphasized the importance of not celebrating during a time when many are losing their lives in the conflict.
Read more: UAE Announces Public Holiday for Private Sector on National Day.
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