Israa Wal Miraj, the Night Journey and Ascension of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is a significant event in Islam, observed on the 27th of Rajab.
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While it holds deep religious importance, Israa Wal Miraj is not a public holiday in the UAE as of 2025. The UAE removed it from the holiday calendar in 2019 to streamline public and private sector holidays, focusing on longer breaks for Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of Israa Wal Miraj, its historical context in the UAE, and provide a clear overview of the UAE’s 2025 public holidays. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, this guide will help you stay informed and plan ahead.
Is Israa Wal Miraj a Public Holiday in the UAE in 2025?
No, Israa Wal Miraj is not a public holiday in the UAE in 2025. The UAE removed it from the official public holiday list in 2019 as part of a broader effort to streamline public and private sector holidays. This decision was made to focus on longer breaks for major Islamic celebrations like Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha.
Historical Context
Before 2019, Israa Wal Miraj was observed as a public holiday in the UAE. However, the government decided to exclude it to ensure smoother economic and operational efficiency. This change aligns with the UAE's strategy to prioritize holidays that have a more significant impact on the community and economy.
When is Israa Wal Miraj Day in the UAE?
Israa Wal Miraj, also known as the Night Journey and Ascension of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is observed on the 27th day of Rajab in the Islamic calendar. In 2025, this date corresponds to Monday, January 27, 2025.
Islamic Date: 27th Rajab 1446 AH.
Gregorian Date: Monday, January 27, 2025.
Significance: Commemorates the miraculous journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascension to the heavens.
No, Israa Wal Miraj is not a public holiday in the UAE in 2025. It was removed from the official public holiday list in 2019 as part of the UAE government’s decision to streamline public and private sector holidays.
While not a public holiday, Muslims in the UAE observe Israa Wal Miraj through spiritual activities such as:
Offering special night prayers (Tahajjud).
Reciting the Quran and reflecting on its teachings.
Sharing the story of the Prophet’s journey with family and children.
Gathering in mosques for sermons and spiritual discussions.
Unlike the UAE, countries like Oman and Kuwait have declared Israa Wal Miraj a public holiday in 2025. In these countries, the holiday has been extended to create a long weekend, with celebrations spanning from January 30 to February 1.
How Do UAE Residents Observe Israa Wal Miraj?
Although Israa Wal Miraj is not a public holiday in the UAE, it remains a deeply significant occasion for Muslims. Residents observe this day through a variety of personal and community activities that emphasize spirituality, reflection, and education. Here’s how UAE residents typically commemorate Israa Wal Miraj:
Offering Special Night Prayers (Tahajjud):
Many Muslims wake up during the night to perform Tahajjud, a voluntary prayer offered in the late hours. This act of worship is seen as a way to connect with Allah and seek blessings.
2.Reciting the Quran and Reflecting on Its Teachings:
Residents spend time reading and reflecting on the Quran, particularly verses related to the Israa Wal Miraj journey. This practice helps deepen their understanding of the event’s spiritual significance.
3.Sharing the Story of the Prophet’s Journey:
Families often gather to share the story of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) miraculous journey with their children. This serves as both an educational and bonding experience, passing down Islamic traditions to younger generations.
4.Gathering in Mosques for Sermons and Spiritual Discussions:
Many mosques in the UAE host special sermons and lectures about Israa Wal Miraj. These gatherings provide an opportunity for community members to learn more about the event’s lessons and significance.
5.Acts of Charity and Kindness:
Some residents choose to mark the day by performing acts of charity, such as donating to those in need or helping the less fortunate. This aligns with the values of compassion and generosity emphasized in Islam.
6.Personal Reflection and Dua (Supplication):
Individuals often take time for personal reflection, contemplating the lessons of Israa Wal Miraj and making heartfelt dua (supplications) for themselves, their families, and the wider community.
While the day is not a public holiday, these observances allow UAE residents to honor Israa Wal Miraj in a meaningful and spiritually enriching way.
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UAE Public Holidays in 2025
Here’s a clear and concise table outlining the UAE’s public holidays for 2025. Dates are based on the Gregorian and Islamic calendars, with Islamic dates subject to moon sightings.
Moon Sighting: Islamic holidays like Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha are subject to moon sightings, so dates may vary slightly.
Holiday Adjustments: If a public holiday falls on a weekend, it may be moved to the beginning or end of the week, except for Eid holidays.
Additional Holidays: Local governments may approve extra holidays for special occasions.
UAE School Holidays 2025
Here’s a detailed overview of the UAE school holidays for 2025, based on the Ministry of Education’s academic calendar. These dates apply to both public and private schools, though private schools with international curricula may have slight variations.
Winter Break:
Start: Monday, December 16, 2024
End: Sunday, January 5, 2025
Duration: 3 weeks
Spring Break:
Start: Monday, March 24, 2025
End: Sunday, April 13, 2025
Duration: 3 weeks
Summer Break:
Start: Late June 2025 (exact dates vary by school)
End: Late August 2025
Duration: Approximately 7-8 weeks
February Break:
Some schools may have a short break in February, ranging from 2 to 9 days, depending on the curriculum and emirate.
Example: A 9-day break from February 10 to February 14, 2025, including weekends.
Ramadan Adjustments:
Schools will adjust timings during Ramadan, which is expected to start around March 1, 2025. Reduced school hours will be implemented to accommodate fasting students and staff.
First Day of School: Monday, August 26, 2024
End of Academic Year: Late June 2025 (exact dates vary by school)
Private schools offering foreign curricula (e.g., British, American, or Indian) may have flexibility in scheduling breaks, provided they meet the minimum requirement of 182 school days per academic year.
Some private schools may start their academic year in April, with different holiday schedules.
Eid Al Fitr: March 31 to April 2, 2025 (subject to moon sighting).
Eid Al Adha: June 6 to June 8, 2025.
UAE National Day: December 2-3, 2025.
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