Ramadan in UAE: How students balance fasting and taking exams during holy month
Grade 12 student Humaid Adel shared his thoughts on preparing for exams during Ramadan. He explained that his exams would be in the afternoon from 12 noon to 2pm.
'I have plenty of time to sleep the night before the exam, and even on the exam day, I don't have to wake up early. This also gives me a chance to review my lessons one last time before heading to the exam,' he told Khaleej Times.
However, he admitted that the first exam would be particularly challenging. 'Physics requires a lot of concentration, so I expect it to be difficult,' he added.
To prepare, Humaid plans to review his lessons the night before the exam after Taraweeh prayers and continue studying in the morning before leaving for the test. 'It's hard for me to study properly while fasting, so I'll make the most of my time before noon.'
He also pointed out that Ramadan often comes with late-night gatherings, making it tempting to stay up late. 'I know I must organise my sleep schedule and start sleeping early. Concentrating when sleepy is difficult, so I'm adjusting my routine now. Getting into a disciplined sleep pattern takes at least two days.'
Adjusting schedules
Umm Mohammed, a mother of a seventh-grade student from Sharjah, shared how she is adjusting to her son's routine during Ramadan to accommodate his exams.
'On regular days, my son sleeps early but tends to stay up late during Ramadan. With exams coming up, I will ensure he follows a schedule that allows him to be fully focused,' she said.
She explained that her son would wake up for Suhoor at 2.30am. and then go back to sleep until the morning to ensure enough rest.
When studying, Umm Mohammed plans to help her son review his lessons immediately after Iftar, maximizing his energy and concentration levels.
Some government schools sent out exam schedules last Friday, urging students to start revising for exams.
The end of the second-semester exams for the academic year 2024-2025 will start soon. Students in the first cycle, specifically grades 3 and 4, will take exams in all subjects from Monday, March 10 to March 18. Students in the second cycle, due to their performance on project-based skills in the core subjects, will take exams in Islamic Education and Social Studies on March 13 and March 18. Students in the third cycle will take exams in all subjects in the afternoon from 12 noon to 2pm, from March 10 to 19. The exam period for all levels will last two hours, varying between online and written exams.
How to prepare for exams
Dr Mazen Abou Chaaban, paediatrics and paediatric nephrology specialist at Fakeeh University Hospital Dubai, has advised against fasting during exams for children who have never fasted before.
He noted those unaccustomed to fasting may experience fatigue and difficulty concentrating, which could impact their performance. As previously reported by the Khaleej Times, a gradual approach to fasting is recommended to help children adjust without feeling exhausted.
There are no special rules on exam days except to ensure students get a good night's sleep. 'Even if they sleep an hour after studying, it's essential to prioritise rest,' said Dr Chaaban, noting: "Quality matters more than quantity when it comes to eating. Proper hydration is also essential for maintaining focus and concentration."
There are no strict dietary rules for students who are already fasting on exam days. However, the day before an exam should include healthy habits that start right after breakfast.
'Sleep is crucial for mental health. It's important for students to get enough rest by going to bed early,' Dr Chaaban underscored.
Quality over quantity
Dr Chaaban warned against consuming heavy, fatty, or sugary foods, which can cause sluggishness and drowsiness. Instead, he recommended a light and nutritious Suhoor rich in protein and low in sugar.
'A great option for Suhoor is dates with bananas or a slice of toast with bananas. These foods provide lasting energy and essential nutrients,' he suggested.
Dr Chaaban also stressed the importance of drinking plenty of water. 'Hydration is key. Students should continue drinking water after Iftar and during Suhoor to keep their bodies well-hydrated.'
'These steps can help students feel physically and mentally prepared for their exams,' he added.
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