Mark your calendar. Easter is on Sunday, April 20 this year.
1. Easter Date in UAE 2025
Here’s Why It’s Late This Year
Easter in UAE 2025 lands on Sunday, April 20. It’s one of the latest Easter dates possible—and if that feels odd, you’re not alone. This all-important Christian celebration moves every year because it follows a very specific pattern: it must fall on the first Sunday after the Paschal Full Moon, which comes after the spring equinox.
The Church always considers March 21 as the official equinox date (even if the real one shifts). So, in 2025, the first full moon after March 21 comes just before April 20. That’s why this year’s Easter is pushed deeper into April.
Key Dates for Easter Events in UAE
So yes, Easter Sunday is late this year—but it’s locked in now. And because the Orthodox and Western dates align in 2025, churches across the Emirates will observe it on the same day. That doesn’t happen every year.
Church services across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah will follow this timeline closely. You’ll see Maundy Thursday foot-washing rituals, Good Friday processions, and packed Sunday morning services with live music and sermons in multiple languages.
2. What Makes the Easter Date Move?
Blame the moon, not the calendar
Every year, the question pops up again—why can’t Easter just stick to one date? The short answer is: it’s tied to the moon. More specifically, it’s connected to the first full moon after March 21. That full moon is known as the Paschal Full Moon.
Once that moon happens, the following Sunday is Easter.
But there’s a catch: the Church doesn’t use the actual full moon. It follows an ancient set of lunar calculations set in the year 325. These formulas use a standard March 21 equinox and a fixed lunar calendar—so Easter isn’t based on real-time astronomy.
Unusual Easter Dates Over the Years
That’s why you’ll sometimes hear people say Easter is “early” or “late.” In reality, it can fall anywhere between March 22 and April 25. Easter in Dubai 2025 lands toward the end of that range.
So don’t be surprised if one year Easter brunch lands in March, and the next year you’re sweating through egg hunts in mid-April.
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3. Lent, Holy Week, and Easter in Dubai 2025
The big celebration on April 20 is just one part of the story. Easter doesn’t start with chocolate eggs or floral dresses. It starts 46 days earlier on Ash Wednesday—this year, that’s March 5.
That’s when Lent begins. Lent is a time of fasting, reflection, and prayer. For many Christians, it’s also about giving something up—whether that’s meat, sugar, or social media. It mirrors the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness.
Lent to Easter Timeline for 2025
Ash Wednesday: March 5
Mid-Lent: March 24
Palm Sunday: April 13
Holy Thursday: April 17
Good Friday: April 18
Holy Saturday: April 19
Easter Sunday: April 20
During Holy Week, churches in Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi hold daily services. Some host live re-enactments of the Last Supper, outdoor processions, and even bilingual sermons. Expect packed pews and late-night vigils by Good Friday.
If you’re in the UAE and looking for an Easter program to join, churches like Holy Trinity in Dubai and St. Joseph’s in Abu Dhabi publish their Holy Week events weeks in advance. Many now offer services in Arabic, English, Tagalog, Malayalam, and more.
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4. Best Places to Celebrate Easter in UAE
Easter in UAE isn’t just a church affair. It’s also one of the most family-focused times of year. From egg hunts to festive brunches, there are events across every major Emirate.
Dubai takes the lead with extravagant Easter brunches, kids’ activities, and themed hotel events. Abu Dhabi brings a more cultural flavor with outdoor church services, live choirs, and large community meals. Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah lean toward simple, traditional events.
Top Family Events for Easter in Dubai 2025
Looking for a spot to book? Atlantis, The Palm usually hosts one of the largest Easter events in Dubai. Expect themed desserts, egg hunts, and a sea-view buffet. For something more chilled, parks in Mirdif or Al Barsha often offer local Easter games and workshops.
Where to Take the Kids for Easter in Dubai
Mushrif Park: Pony rides and face painting
City Centre Mirdif: Easter bunny meet-and-greet
Zabeel Park: Free-entry egg scavenger hunt
Dubai Safari Park: Animal-themed Easter games
Easter in Dubai 2025 is shaping up to be one of the biggest in recent memory. With the date landing late in April, most outdoor events will happen in warm but manageable weather. That means more family time, more photos, and a lot of chocolate.
5. Easter in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Churches play a huge role during Easter in UAE. Whether you're visiting or living here, you’ll notice how the local Christian community comes together during Holy Week.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have some of the most active congregations. In Dubai, churches in Oud Metha and Jebel Ali pull massive crowds. Expect parking lots to fill up early and services to stretch all day, especially on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Oud Metha usually holds multiple masses from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday. Many are in different languages—Tagalog, Malayalam, Arabic, Tamil, English—to serve Dubai’s diverse Christian community.
Abu Dhabi’s St. Joseph’s Cathedral is also known for its packed Easter vigil. Most services there are indoors, but Easter morning often spills out into open spaces, especially for big family blessings.
Easter Church Services in UAE
You won’t need tickets, but early arrival is smart. Maundy Thursday services usually start at 6 pm. Good Friday services often begin at 3 pm, and sunrise services on Easter Day kick off around 6 am. In recent years, more churches have also offered livestream options.
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6. Why is Easter celebrated?
Behind all the eggs and brunches, Easter marks the core of the Christian faith—the resurrection of Jesus Christ. That moment, believed to have happened three days after His crucifixion, is seen as proof of life after death and the ultimate victory of good over evil.
It’s not just about resurrection. Easter in UAE 2025 also marks the end of Lent, the completion of Holy Week, and the final part of what’s called the Easter Triduum—starting from Thursday evening and ending Sunday night.
Christian Observances Leading to Easter
Maundy Thursday: Last Supper, foot washing
Good Friday: Jesus’ crucifixion
Holy Saturday: The silent day before resurrection
Easter Sunday: The resurrection of Christ
People often confuse Easter with Good Friday or Palm Sunday. But Easter Sunday is the celebration—the moment of joy, rebirth, and hope. In UAE churches, this moment is marked by candle-lit processions, sunrise masses, and songs sung in multiple tongues.
The season continues for 50 days, closing with Pentecost. That’s why you might hear hymns like “Jesus is Risen” well into May. For many, Easter isn’t a one-day event—it’s the start of a spiritual season of renewal.
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7. Easter Foods in UAE
Easter in Dubai and the wider UAE has a unique blend of traditions—some rooted in Western culture, others in Eastern. One thing most have in common? Food.
Homes across the Emirates cook up everything from lamb roasts to biryani, honey-glazed ham to chocolate eggs. While churches host potlucks and post-service breakfasts, restaurants put their spin on Easter brunches with global menus.
Easter Menu Favorites in UAE Homes
In many Filipino, Indian, and Lebanese households across the UAE, Easter includes sharing home-cooked meals after church. Popular dishes like pansit, beef curry, and rice-based desserts often accompany more traditional Christian fare.
Supermarkets like Carrefour and Spinneys also stock up on Easter goodies—chocolate bunnies, egg-shaped treats, and floral cakes. Plus, specialty stores in JLT, Karama, and Al Wahda Mall often sell imported items just for the Easter season.
8. Best Easter Egg Hunts and Kids’ Events in Dubai 2025
Easter in UAE isn’t just for the adults. Kids steal the spotlight with themed hunts, bunny visits, and candy-filled trails across malls and parks.
In Dubai, Easter egg hunts usually start on Good Friday and continue all weekend. These events aren’t limited to schools or churches. You’ll find them in malls, beach clubs, and even public parks.
Top Spots for Easter Egg Hunts in Dubai
Families often head out early—most egg hunts start around 9 or 10 am. You’ll need to register for some, especially those run by schools or clubs. Hotels like Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott usually bundle egg hunts with Easter-themed brunches, making it a full-day activity.
What to Expect at Kids’ Easter Events in UAE
Free Easter baskets at mall counters
Pop-up games like “Bunny Hop” or “Golden Egg Search”
Easter arts and crafts corners
Petting zoos and face painting
For working parents, don’t worry—many egg hunts repeat across multiple days. Some schools also host private hunts during the week before Easter.
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9. Where to Shop for Easter Gifts, Baskets, and Chocolate in UAE
Easter in UAE 2025 isn’t complete without gifts. Whether it’s handcrafted baskets, chocolate bunnies, or egg-decorating kits, there’s no shortage of options this year.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have everything from budget-friendly Easter treats to luxury hampers. Supermarkets start stacking shelves with seasonal goods by mid-March. Carrefour, Lulu, and Choithrams are the usual go-tos for chocolate eggs and pastel-themed goodies. But if you're after high-end baskets, head to Dean & Deluca, Marks & Spencer, or Jones the Grocer.
Top Easter Shopping Spots in Dubai
Gifting during Easter is common in expat households. From pastel-wrapped chocolates for neighbors to baskets full of toys for kids, the gesture adds a festive touch. In UAE schools, students often exchange small candy bags or decorate real eggs in class.
Don’t forget local online options too—Noon and Kibsons usually run Easter promos, offering same-day delivery on gourmet chocolates, flowers, and cakes.
10. Celebrating Easter as a Tourist in UAE
What to do and where to go
Easter in UAE 2025 arrives at the perfect time for tourists. April weather is warm but not blazing hot, and major events, brunches, and markets are in full swing.
Visitors can attend church services, join citywide egg hunts, or just soak in themed festivities at malls and hotels. Many hotels offer seasonal staycation deals, bundling room bookings with Easter brunch, spa access, and kids’ activities.
Best Hotels with Easter Deals in UAE
Tourists can also explore open-air markets and beach clubs. Dubai’s La Mer often hosts mini carnivals with food stalls, Easter parades, and stage shows. Yas Island in Abu Dhabi is another great choice—some parks like Warner Bros. World go all-out with themed shows and bunny photo ops.
Easter Travel Tips for Visitors
Book brunch tables early—they fill up fast
Check if your hotel includes church shuttle service
Look out for family events listed under “Spring Break” activities
Wear breathable fabrics for morning services and beach hunts
Tourists are more than welcome at local church events. Most major churches have visitor-friendly seating areas and multilingual ushers. No need to register in advance—just arrive on time and be respectful.
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11. Easter in UAE
Easter in UAE isn’t tied to one single tradition. With residents from over 200 nationalities, the way people celebrate here is diverse, layered, and deeply personal.
You’ll see Indian families attending sunrise masses, Filipinos preparing festive tables filled with native dishes, Lebanese households baking maamoul, and Europeans dyeing eggs with their kids. Despite the different customs, the energy is shared.
In most UAE cities, Easter becomes a chance to pause, gather, and give. While there’s no official public holiday, many companies offer flexible schedules or early dismissal on Good Friday, especially in expat-heavy offices.
Ways Easter Traditions Blend in UAE
Arabic greetings and songs in church masses
Sharing food with neighbors from different faiths
Community clean-up drives and charity donations
Multi-faith egg hunts in public parks
Churches often reflect this diversity. Some host a mix of choir groups, prayer leaders, and volunteers from across continents. Others focus on multilingual services that include local UAE residents alongside foreign communities.
That’s what makes Easter in UAE feel so different. It’s not about fitting one mold—it’s about blending spiritual meaning with inclusive celebration.
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12. Quick facts about Easter in UAE 2025
Let’s wrap up this Easter guide with some straight-up facts. Here's what to remember if you're in or coming to the UAE during Easter 2025:
Fast Facts about Easter in UAE 2025
This Easter, whether you’re attending a mass in Oud Metha, brunching by the beach in Ras Al Khaimah, or helping your kids hunt eggs at a park in Al Ain—you’ll find that the celebration cuts across culture, language, and tradition.
Easter in UAE 2025 is more than a celebration
Easter in UAE 2025 stands out. With April 20 locked as the big day, it’s time to prep early—whether for church, brunch, family outings, or community events. From packed services in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to massive egg hunts and themed hotel brunches, this is a holiday that blends faith, fun, and family time perfectly.
Whether you're a long-time resident or just flying in for spring, Easter in UAE 2025 brings the traditions you know, with a uniquely local twist. Palm crosses, moon cycles, and even the Golden Number all play a role—but what matters most is the experience. And this year, it’s going to be one worth remembering.
FAQs on Easter in UAE 2025
Do they celebrate Easter in Dubai?
Yes, Easter is widely celebrated in Dubai by Christian communities, expats, and families from various nationalities. Local churches like St. Mary’s and Holy Trinity hold multiple services during Holy Week, often in several languages. Beyond church, malls and parks host themed events like egg hunts, kids’ crafts, and family brunches. Hotels join the celebration with seasonal menus, garden parties, and live entertainment. Even though it’s not a public holiday, Easter Sunday feels festive throughout the city.
Is Easter a good time to go to Dubai?
Easter falls during one of the best times to visit Dubai. The weather in April is still manageable, with cooler mornings and evenings, making it perfect for outdoor dining, beach visits, and exploring the city. Restaurants and resorts offer special brunches and holiday packages. Parks, malls, and hotels host family-friendly events. Tourism activity increases, but the atmosphere is cheerful and welcoming. Just be sure to book in advance for events and Easter-themed brunches.
Why is Easter Monday a public holiday in some countries?
Easter Monday is a continuation of Easter celebrations and is a public holiday in many Western countries. It gives people an extra day to spend with family and attend religious services or community events. In Eastern Christianity, it marks the second day of Bright Week, symbolizing ongoing celebration of the Resurrection. However, in the UAE, Easter Monday is not a public holiday, though some private companies offer flexible work arrangements around the Easter weekend.
Which date is Easter celebration?
Easter changes every year. In 2025, Easter Sunday will be celebrated on April 20. This date is determined based on a lunar calendar system, making Easter a movable feast. The celebration falls on the first Sunday after the Paschal Full Moon that comes after March 21. Both Western and Eastern Orthodox churches in the UAE will observe Easter on the same day in 2025, which is a rare alignment. This makes it a significant year for celebrations across churches in the Emirates.
Easter Dates Over Recent Years
Do Muslims celebrate Easter Sunday?
No, Muslims do not celebrate Easter as it is a Christian religious holiday. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a central figure in Christianity. While Muslims respect Jesus as a prophet, Easter is not part of Islamic tradition. In the UAE, a Muslim-majority country, the government supports religious tolerance, allowing Christians to observe Easter through services, gatherings, and community events, but Muslims typically do not participate in the religious aspects of Easter.
What is the weather like in Dubai in Easter?
Dubai in April is warm and pleasant, with average daytime highs around 35°C and cooler evenings dropping to around 21°C. The low humidity and longer daylight hours make it ideal for beach days, outdoor events, and garden brunches. While you might feel a bit of heat during midday hours, mornings and late afternoons are perfect for Easter events like sunrise services or egg hunts in the park. Lightweight clothing and sunscreen are definitely recommended.
Is Easter Sunday a busy day to travel?
Yes, Easter weekend usually sees a spike in travel, especially on Good Friday and the Monday after Easter Sunday. In the UAE, airports and highways may be busier than usual due to inbound tourism and short local getaways. If Easter coincides with school breaks or public holidays in other countries, expect even more travel activity. Booking flights and hotel stays well in advance is advisable if you're planning to travel in or out of the Emirates during Easter.
What are the most popular Easter foods in the UAE?
Easter menus in the UAE reflect a mix of international tastes. Traditional and fusion dishes are served at homes, churches, and restaurants. Common foods include roast lamb, baked fish, hot cross buns, and chocolate eggs. In expat homes, you'll often see regional favorites paired with Easter classics.
Popular Easter Dishes in UAE
Many homes also include biryani, samosas, and pasta dishes during family gatherings. Dessert tables are filled with cakes, pastries, and sweets decorated in spring colors.
Where can I take my kids for Easter egg hunts in Dubai?
Dubai hosts several kid-friendly Easter egg hunts across malls, parks, and hotels. These events often include more than just hunting. There are carnival games, bouncy castles, pony rides, and meet-and-greets with the Easter Bunny.
Kid-Friendly Easter Venues
Dubai Hills Park: Huge egg hunt and puppet shows
Kite Beach: Outdoor games and live music
Mirdif City Centre: Crafts and egg decorating
The Green Planet: Nature-themed bunny trail
Most hunts take place between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Many require advance registration, especially for hotel-based events that include brunch packages.
Are Easter church services available in multiple languages?
Yes, churches across UAE conduct Easter services in several languages to cater to the expat population. Services are typically available in English, Arabic, Tagalog, Malayalam, Tamil, and more. Churches like St. Mary’s in Dubai and St. Joseph’s in Abu Dhabi offer back-to-back services from Maundy Thursday through Easter Sunday.
Languages Available at UAE Churches
It’s recommended to check the church website or bulletin in advance for service timings and languages. Some also offer livestreams for those who can’t attend in person.
Can tourists attend Easter services in UAE?
Yes, tourists are welcome to attend Easter services. Most churches have open-door policies and seating reserved for visitors. You don't need to be a member of the congregation to join. Just arrive on time and dress modestly, especially for sunrise or candlelight services. Tourists often find these moments meaningful and unique, especially in a multicultural setting like the UAE.
What are the most crowded Easter events in UAE?
The most crowded events include sunrise masses, Good Friday services, and Easter brunches at major hotels. Church services on Easter morning tend to reach full capacity quickly, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Hotels like Atlantis and The Ritz-Carlton often host sold-out brunches featuring live music, egg hunts, and children’s zones.
Most Crowded Easter Moments
Sunrise mass at St. Mary’s Dubai
Afternoon brunch at Atlantis The Palm
Family event at Dubai Hills Park
Community potluck in Abu Dhabi churches
Arrive early or pre-book to avoid missing out, especially during Holy Week.
What is the Golden Number and how does it relate to Easter?
The Golden Number is part of an old system used to predict Easter dates. It’s tied to the 19-year Metonic cycle, where moon phases repeat. To calculate it, you take the year, add 1, divide by 19, and find the remainder. This number helps locate the Paschal Full Moon in ancient tables.
Golden Number Example for 2025
So in 2025, the Golden Number is 12. While this method isn't widely used today, it was a key factor in determining Easter centuries ago.
What’s open in UAE during Easter?
Most businesses stay open during Easter weekend. Since it’s not a national holiday, malls, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues operate on regular hours. Churches and schools, however, may follow special schedules.
Open During Easter in UAE
Shopping malls and supermarkets
Hotels and brunch venues
Parks and beaches
Public transport services
Some Christian schools or expat workplaces may offer optional leave for Good Friday or Easter Monday. Always check in advance if you're planning to visit a specific location.
What are common Easter activities for families in UAE?
Families usually attend church together, followed by brunch or lunch outings. Kids participate in egg hunts, crafts, and candy exchanges. Parks and malls host puppet shows, face painting, and live music. Some families prepare traditional meals and share them with neighbors.
Church services and sunrise masses
Hotel brunches with egg hunts
Family picnics in public parks
Decorating eggs and baking at home
The focus is on togetherness, food, and community fun. Events are open to all, regardless of background.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only. The details mentioned are based on the best available information at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice by the respective authorities. Readers are encouraged to consult the relevant offices directly for the most accurate and updated information.