Eid Al Fitr 2025 in UAE: Dates, holidays, and what to expect
Public and private sector holidays depend on the sighting of the crescent moon
DUBAI: Eid Al Fitr 2025 is expected to bring an extended holiday for residents across the United Arab Emirates (UAE), though the exact dates will depend on the sighting of the crescent moon.
The break will mark the end of Ramadan, allowing both public and private sector employees time to celebrate with family and loved ones.
Eid Al Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic Hijri calendar. Since this calendar follows lunar cycles, the holiday’s start date will be determined by the UAE’s Moon-Sighting Committee in the final days of Ramadan.
If the crescent moon is sighted on Ramadan 29, Eid will begin on Sunday, March 30, 2025.
If the moon is not sighted, Ramadan will extend to 30 days, and Eid will start on Monday, March 31, 2025.
This means that residents could enjoy a long weekend, with holidays expected to last from Shawwal 1 to 3. However, the exact number of days off for public and private sector employees will be officially announced by the UAE government closer to the date.
Eid Al Fitr 2025 holidays
While the official announcement is pending, historical trends suggest that employees could receive three to five days off, depending on the final moon-sighting and government confirmation. If the holiday aligns with the weekend, residents may have the opportunity for an extended break.
What to expect during Eid Al Fitr 2025
Eid Al Fitr is one of the most significant Islamic celebrations, marking the conclusion of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and charity. The holiday is traditionally observed with special morning prayers, festive meals, family gatherings, and acts of generosity such as donating to those in need.
In the UAE, Eid festivities typically include:
- Special prayers at mosques and designated prayer grounds.
- Traditional Eid cannons signaling the start of the holiday.
- Extended mall and entertainment venue hours.
- Fireworks displays and cultural events in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Public holidays in UAE
Beyond Eid Al Fitr, the UAE will observe several other public holidays in 2025, including:
- Arafa Day & Eid Al Adha – Expected in June 2025
- Hijri New Year – Expected in late July 2025
- Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – Expected in September 2025
- UAE National Day – December 2-3, 2025
As residents await official confirmation of the Eid holiday dates, many are already planning travel and family gatherings.