Start planning those long weekends…
The UAE Cabinet has unveiled the full list of UAE public holidays for 2025. Both the public and private sectors can anticipate a series of well-deserved breaks, including several long weekends.
And if you’re wondering when you’ll get extra days off, we’ve rounded up all of the upcoming public holidays in the UAE for 2025.
New Year’s Day
The first public holiday of the year marked the first day of the year on Wednesday January 1
Eid Al Fitr
The next UAE public holiday will be for Eid Al Fitr. Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, and begins on Ramadan 29 and ends on 3 Shawaal, as per the Islamic calendar. The corresponding dates on the Gregorian calendar are determined by the sighting of the moon.
With Ramadan forecast to start on Saturday March 1, as per local astronomers, it’s likely that Ramadan 29 will fall on Saturday March 29. If Ramadan is 29 days, the public holiday would be from Sunday March 30 until Tuesday April 1, making it a four-day weekend. However, if the crescent moon is not spotted on March 29, Ramadan will be 30 days, and the public holiday would be from Monday March 31 until Wednesday April 2, giving us a long 5-day weekend.
Eid Al Adha
Another significant Islamic holiday, Eid Al Adha, is scheduled for three days in the month of Dhu Al Hijjah. The specific dates for this celebration will also be confirmed based on lunar observations. Additionally, one day each is allocated for Arafat Day and the Islamic New Year, Muharram 1.
Arafat Day is anticipated on Friday, May 30th, leading to Eid Al Adha celebrations likely to be around Saturday May 31 to Wednesday June 2.
Islamic New Year
Islamic New Year is expected to fall on Friday, June 27, making it a three-day weekend for those who usually have Saturday and Sunday off.
The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday
Celebrating the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, the calendar of UAE public holidays includes a day off on Rabi Al Awl 12. This is expected to be marked on Monday, September 1.
Commemoration Day and Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day)
Image: Instagram
The final UAE public holidays of 2025 combine two public holidays: Commemoration Day and Eid Al Etihad (formerly known as UAE Union Day and UAE National Day). The dates for these holidays are already confirmed. With Commemoration Day set to be marked on Monday December 1, while the public holidays for the 54th UAE National Day will see us have Tuesday December 2 and Wednesday December 3 off.
Important Considerations
It’s important to note that these are estimated dates, and the actual dates may vary slightly depending on the precise moon sightings. Furthermore, if any of the official holidays fall on a weekend, they may be carried over to the beginning or end of the week, with the exception of Eid holidays.
Planning Ahead
By understanding the anticipated holiday schedule, individuals and businesses can effectively plan their leave and activities throughout the year. It’s also advisable to stay updated on any official announcements closer to the holidays, as there might be minor adjustments or additional information provided.
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Images: Feature Image: @visitabudhabi
