DUBAI: The celebrations of Eid Al Fitr in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have concluded, with work resuming today (April 2).
As we embrace the month of April, many are already looking ahead to the next significant breaks in the UAE calendar.
The year 2025 is filled with notable public holidays, offering residents ample opportunities for rest, reflection, and celebration. While some holidays are fixed, others depend on lunar sightings, so it's essential to keep an eye on the announcements from the UAE’s Moon-Sighting Committee as the dates approach.
UAE public holidays
Arafat Day
Following Eid Al Fitr, the next significant holiday on the UAE’s public calendar is Arafat Day, which is celebrated on the ninth day of Dhu Al Hijjah. This year, Arafat Day is expected to fall on Thursday, June 5, 2025, although the exact date will be confirmed based on the sighting of the moon. This holiday provides a well-deserved one-day break, allowing workers to prepare for the subsequent festivities.
Eid Al Adha
The day after Arafat Day marks the beginning of Eid Al Adha, which is one of the most important Islamic holidays. In 2025, the holiday will stretch across three days, from June 6 to June 8, making it an ideal time for family gatherings and celebrations. This holiday commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God, and it is often celebrated with prayers, feasting, and acts of charity.
Islamic New Year
Following the excitement of Eid Al Adha, workers will also enjoy a one-day holiday to mark the Islamic New Year on the first day of Muharram. In 2025, this day will fall on Friday, June 27. The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year, signifies the beginning of the new lunar calendar year and is a time for reflection and renewal.
Prophet Muhammad’s birthday
The year continues with another significant holiday as residents prepare to celebrate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on Rabi Al Awwal 12. In 2025, this occasion will take place on Monday, September 1. This day is marked with prayers and activities that reflect the teachings of the Prophet, promoting peace and understanding.
Eid Al Etihad
As 2025 draws to a close, residents can look forward to the celebrations of Commemoration Day and the UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad (formerly National Day) on December 2 and 3, which will fall on Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively. This mid-week break will provide an excellent opportunity for residents to celebrate their national identity and reflect on the UAE's remarkable progress since its formation in 1971.
Potential holiday adjustments
In accordance with UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024, it’s worth noting that the public holidays outlined may be adjusted if they fall on weekends. The government has provisions to carry over holidays to the beginning or end of the week, ensuring that employees enjoy a break regardless of the day the holiday falls on. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who want to maximise their time off work.
As the lunar calendar can vary, the exact dates for holidays such as Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha will be confirmed shortly before the celebrations. Residents are encouraged to remain updated through official announcements and media channels, ensuring they can plan effectively for their time off.