As the UAE prepares for a new year, the astronomical community is already looking to the heavens to predict the exact dates of the nation’s most anticipated breaks — the Eid holidays. Thanks to the UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024, we have a general outline of public and private holidays for 2025. However, the precise dates of many of these celebrations depend on lunar phases, which can vary slightly from year to year.

The Lunar Influence

The Islamic calendar, which governs many of the UAE’s religious holidays, is based on the lunar cycle. This means that the dates of events like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha can shift relative to the Gregorian calendar. The Moon Sighting Committee plays a crucial role in determining the exact start date of these holidays by visually confirming the appearance of the new moon.

A Year of Long Weekends

Based on astronomical predictions, the UAE can expect a year filled with long weekends. Eid al-Fitr is likely to fall between Monday, March 31, and Wednesday, April 2. Additionally, Arafat Day is anticipated to occur on Friday, May 30, leading to Eid al-Adha celebrations from Saturday, May 31, to Wednesday, June 2.

Other Notable Holidays

Beyond the major religious festivals, the UAE will also observe several other significant holidays in 2025. These include:

Gregorian New Year: A one-day holiday on January 1.

Islamic New Year: Falling on Muharram 1, the Gregorian date of which will be confirmed closer to the event.

Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday: Celebrated on Rabi Al Awwal 12, with the Gregorian date to be determined.

Commemoration Day and UAE Union Day: Honored on December 2 and 3, respectively.

A Year of Astronomical Significance

The Emirates Astronomy Society has played a pivotal role in predicting these holiday dates. Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors, has stated that the crescent moon of Ramadan 1446 AH will be born on Friday, February 28, 2025. This means that Ramadan itself is likely to begin on Saturday, March 1.

Looking Ahead

As the UAE prepares for a year filled with cultural and religious celebrations, the astronomical community will continue to monitor the lunar cycle and provide accurate predictions for the nation’s holiday calendar. With a combination of traditional knowledge and modern science, the UAE can anticipate a year of festivities marked by both spiritual significance and astronomical wonder.

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Feature image: Instagram @futurebedouin