When will Eid Al Adha 2025 be celebrated in UAE?
Moon sighting will confirm the official holiday schedule
DUBAI: Eid Al Adha, one of the most anticipated Islamic holidays in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is set to bring a long weekend for residents in 2025.
The holiday, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is expected to span four days, offering both the public and private sectors a well-deserved break.
While preliminary astronomical predictions indicate that Arafat Day will fall on Thursday, 5 June 2025, followed by Eid Al Adha from Friday, 6 June to Sunday, 8 June, the official confirmation will depend on the sighting of the crescent moon closer to the time.
Eid Al Adha holiday schedule
Eid Al Adha is observed on Dhu Al Hijjah 10, 11, and 12, following Arafat Day on Dhu Al Hijjah 9. In 2025, Arafat Day is expected to begin the holiday period on 5 June, allowing for an extended weekend break for UAE residents.
Under the UAE’s public holiday law, Eid holidays are exempt from adjustments, meaning the holiday will not be moved to accommodate a weekend shift. If these dates hold, those in the UAE will enjoy a long weekend without any modifications to the break.
Government authorities will officially declare the holiday dates once the moon sighting confirms the beginning of Dhu Al Hijjah, ensuring alignment with Islamic traditions.
Eid Al Adha: significance
Eid Al Adha commemorates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim, who was prepared to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. As the story goes, God intervened, replacing the child with a ram for the sacrifice instead.
The occasion is marked with morning prayers at mosques and Eid grounds across the UAE, followed by the practice of Qurbani – where families sacrifice livestock, with the meat distributed among relatives, friends, and those in need. Many residents also use the holiday as an opportunity to donate to charities and partake in festive gatherings.
Arafat Day observances
Arafat Day, the day before Eid Al Adha, holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide. It marks the peak of the Hajj pilgrimage, when millions of pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia for prayers and reflection.
For those not performing Hajj, Arafat Day is often observed through fasting and additional prayers. In the UAE, mosques see a significant increase in attendance, as worshippers engage in supplication and spiritual reflection before the arrival of Eid.
Festivities across UAE
As with every major celebration, the UAE is expected to host grand festivities to mark Eid Al Adha. Residents and tourists can look forward to spectacular fireworks displays, cultural events, and shopping promotions across major cities.
Shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels typically offer special Eid-themed experiences, including limited-time discounts and festive buffets. Popular public destinations such as Dubai’s Global Village, Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, and Sharjah’s Al Majaz Waterfront often see a surge in visitors enjoying holiday activities.
Travel and public safety
With the extended break, many UAE residents will take advantage of the holiday to travel domestically or internationally. Airports are expected to experience high passenger volumes, with authorities urging travellers to plan ahead to avoid congestion.
Meanwhile, local authorities will be implementing traffic management strategies around major prayer areas and public venues.