DUBAI: UAE residents are expected to enjoy a four-day break for Eid Al Adha in 2025, according to astronomical forecasts.
The Emirates Astronomy Society has projected that Eid Al Adha will fall on Friday, 6 June 2025, aligning the holiday period with the weekend and providing an extended break for both public and private sector employees.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, confirmed that the crescent moon marking the start of Dhu Al Hijjah is expected to be visible on 27 May 2025. This would establish 28 May as the first day of the Islamic month, placing Arafat Day on Thursday, 5 June, and Eid Al Adha from Friday, 6 June to Sunday, 8 June.
The UAE’s official holiday calendar grants public holidays from the 9th to the 12th of Dhu Al Hijjah. If the forecast holds, the four-day break will run from Thursday to Sunday, offering residents an uninterrupted holiday period.
Moon sighting confirmation
As with all Islamic holidays, the actual date depends on the official moon sighting, which could shift the timeline by a day. If the crescent is not visible on 27 May, Dhu Al Hijjah would begin on 29 May, pushing Eid Al Adha to Saturday, 7 June. In this scenario, the holiday period would span Saturday to Tuesday rather than aligning perfectly with the weekend.
Authorities will confirm the official dates closer to the occasion, ensuring adherence to Islamic traditions. Regardless of the final determination, the UAE government has guaranteed a four-day break for residents to observe and celebrate the festival.
Significance of Eid Al Adha
Eid Al Adha, also known as the ‘Feast of Sacrifice,’ is one of the most important Islamic celebrations. It commemorates the Quranic account of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of faith, a trial that ended with divine intervention when a ram was provided for sacrifice instead.
The holiday is marked by communal prayers, the ritual sacrifice of livestock, and acts of charity, with meat distributed among family, friends, and those in need. It also coincides with the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage, when millions of Muslims gather in Mecca to complete the sacred rites.
Arafat Day
The day preceding Eid Al Adha, known as Arafat Day, holds significant spiritual value. Falling on the ninth day of Dhu Al Hijjah, it marks the peak of Hajj, with pilgrims gathering at Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia for prayers and reflection.
In the UAE, Arafat Day is observed with fasting and increased religious devotion. Mosques experience higher attendance, as worshippers engage in supplication and spiritual preparation ahead of Eid celebrations.
Eid Al Adha in UAE
As one of the most anticipated holidays in the UAE, Eid Al Adha is expected to be celebrated with grandeur across the country. Traditional family gatherings, festive meals, and charitable initiatives will define the occasion.
Shopping malls and entertainment venues will offer exclusive Eid promotions, while major landmarks such as Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, and Sharjah’s Al Majaz Waterfront will host cultural events and fireworks displays.
With the extended break, a surge in domestic and international travel is anticipated. UAE airports are expected to witness increased passenger traffic, prompting authorities to advise travellers to plan ahead to avoid congestion.