UAE public holidays 2025 have finally been revealed! It's always a good idea to start planning early, especially when the year is packed with opportunities for extended time off.
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If you're dreaming of a long break, visiting family, or just enjoying some downtime, these holidays are the perfect chance. Let's take a closer look at what's in store for the list of holidays in 2025.
List of UAE Public Holidays 2025
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1. New Year's Day - Kickstarting 2025
The first public holiday of the year is, as always, New Year's Day on January 1, 2025. It's a great way to kickstart the year with celebrations, fireworks, and a day off work. This one-day holiday is a perfect opportunity to relax or spend time with loved ones.
Things to do on New Year's Day 2025:
Relax at one of Dubai's gorgeous beaches.
Enjoy New Year fireworks at the iconic Burj Khalifa.
Take a short road trip with friends and explore a new part of the UAE.
New Year's Day is a fantastic start, setting a festive tone for the months ahead. Many people use this day to reflect on the past year and set new goals, making it an ideal time for fresh starts and resolutions. Whether it’s improving your health, advancing your career, or picking up a new hobby, New Year's Day gives you the motivation to begin the year with positive energy.
In addition, several attractions in the UAE host special events to celebrate the start of the year, offering entertainment, concerts, and exclusive discounts. Whether you prefer a quiet day of relaxation or joining in the festivities, New Year's Day has something for everyone.
2. Eid Al Fitr - A Festive Break
The next major public holiday will be Eid Al Fitr, expected to fall between March 31 and April 2, 2025. Eid Al Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, bringing the community together for a festive celebration filled with joy, feasting, and giving.
Eid holidays typically span three to four days, giving plenty of time to:
Spend moments with family and friends.
Enjoy special holiday brunches and dinners.
Participate in charitable activities, a tradition during Eid.
Eid Al Fitr is a time of gratitude and celebration. After a month of fasting, families come together to share special meals, and the atmosphere is full of love and community. Traditional dishes, sweets, and treats are prepared, and the focus is on spending time with loved ones and showing kindness to others.
It is also a time for giving. Many people take this opportunity to donate to charity and help those in need, embodying the spirit of generosity that defines the Eid holiday. The festive atmosphere extends beyond homes, as communities host events, cultural shows, and gatherings to celebrate together.
Eid Al Fitr Holiday Schedule
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These three days are perfect for enjoying traditional dishes, visiting loved ones, and appreciating the holiday spirit. You can also find various community events and public gatherings, such as Eid bazaars, entertainment shows, and family-friendly activities that make the holiday even more special.
For those who love to travel, Eid Al Fitr is an ideal time to explore different parts of the UAE or even venture abroad. Many families plan staycations, taking advantage of hotel offers and packages tailored for the holiday season. Whether you decide to stay in the UAE or travel, Eid Al Fitr is a wonderful time to relax and enjoy life.
3. Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha - Another Extended Holiday
The Arafat Day holiday falls on May 30, 2025, followed immediately by Eid Al Adha from May 31 to June 2, 2025. Arafat Day is a deeply spiritual day that precedes Eid Al Adha, known as the 'Festival of Sacrifice.' This is one of the most significant holidays in the Islamic calendar, observed with prayers, reflections, and family gatherings.
Highlights of Eid Al Adha Celebrations:
Sharing meals with the less fortunate.
Taking part in prayers and spiritual gatherings.
Spending quality time with loved ones.
Eid Al Adha, also known as the 'Greater Eid,' holds great importance in the Islamic faith. Families come together to honor the tradition of Qurbani, the act of sacrificing an animal, and distributing the meat among family, friends, and those in need. This holiday represents the values of sacrifice, generosity, and gratitude.
Eid Al Adha Holiday Schedule
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These four days are perfect for relaxation, reflection, and family connections. Many take the opportunity to travel or arrange gatherings. Eid Al Adha also brings a festive mood to the streets, with decorations, lights, and community celebrations taking place across the country. It’s a time to connect with extended family, share delicious meals, and create lasting memories.
Retailers and shopping centers often have special sales during Eid Al Adha, making it a great time for shopping and buying gifts for loved ones. The holiday also presents an opportunity for cultural experiences, as many places host events, exhibitions, and performances that showcase the rich traditions of the UAE.
4. Islamic New Year - Marking a New Chapter
The Islamic New Year, also called Hijri New Year, will be observed on June 27, 2025. This holiday is a day of reflection, marking the beginning of the new year in the Islamic lunar calendar.
Ideas for Islamic New Year:
Attend a cultural or religious event.
Spend time reflecting on the past year and setting goals for the year ahead.
This one-day holiday is quieter compared to other festivals, providing a chance to reflect and prepare for the rest of the year. Families often gather to share simple meals and discuss plans for the coming year. It's also a day for personal growth, with many people using the opportunity to make positive changes in their lives.
The Islamic New Year is an excellent time for introspection and setting intentions for spiritual and personal growth. It’s also a time to connect with family members and strengthen relationships, offering a peaceful start to the new year.
5. Prophet Muhammad's Birthday - A Day of Reflection
Prophet Muhammad's Birthday will be observed on September 1, 2025. This day commemorates the birth of the Prophet, celebrated with prayers, readings, and family gatherings.
Ways to Spend the Day:
Participate in community prayers.
Gather with friends and family to mark the occasion.
Share stories about the Prophet's life and teachings.
This holiday is ideal for connecting with the community and spending time reflecting on spiritual teachings. Many families gather to share meals and stories, and mosques host special prayers to honor the Prophet’s life and contributions. It’s a time for reflection, learning, and understanding the values of compassion, kindness, and humility.
Prophet Muhammad's Birthday Schedule
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Many educational and cultural institutions hold events to educate people about the Prophet's teachings and legacy. It is a time for children and adults alike to learn more about Islamic history and its significance in everyday life.
6. Commemoration Day - Honoring the Heroes
Commemoration Day is observed on December 1, 2025. This holiday is dedicated to remembering the Emiratis who have sacrificed for their country. It's a solemn and meaningful day in the UAE calendar.
How to Spend Commemoration Day:
Attend official ceremonies.
Visit a memorial site to honor those who served.
Spend time learning about UAE's history and its heroes.
This day encourages the community to pay respect to the brave individuals who contributed to the nation. Government buildings and schools often hold special ceremonies, and many people visit memorials to show their gratitude. It’s a day to come together as a nation and honor the heroes who have shaped the UAE.
Commemoration Day is also an opportunity to educate younger generations about the importance of sacrifice and patriotism. Many schools organize educational activities to help students understand the significance of the day and the values it represents.
7. UAE National Day - A Grand Celebration
The final public holiday of the year is the UAE National Day, celebrated on December 2 and 3, 2025. National Day marks the union of the emirates and is filled with grand celebrations, parades, and festive events.
UAE National Day Activities:
Watch spectacular fireworks across different emirates.
Participate in parades and community celebrations.
Enjoy family-friendly events and concerts.
UAE National Day Holidays
National Day is one of the most vibrant and celebrated holidays, with people of all ages coming together to mark the UAE's unity and achievements. Streets are adorned with the national flag, and there are concerts, cultural performances, and community events throughout the country. It’s a time for pride, joy, and celebrating the UAE’s accomplishments.
Many families use the opportunity to attend parades and fireworks shows, while others prefer to enjoy a quiet day with loved ones. The atmosphere is full of patriotism, and it is an incredible time to witness the national spirit in action.
Make the Most of UAE Public Holidays 2025
The UAE public holidays in 2025 offer fantastic opportunities to take time off and enjoy life, whether it’s a quick getaway or time spent with family and friends. With these holidays, you can plan short breaks, long weekends, or even a proper vacation. Just make sure to mark your calendar early and make the most of every opportunity for a well-deserved break.
Enjoying UAE public holidays 2025 isn’t just about getting a day off work; it’s about celebrating culture, spending time with loved ones, and taking a moment to reflect. From the joyous celebrations of Eid to the solemn reflection of Commemoration Day, each holiday offers a unique experience. So, start planning now, and get ready for an incredible year full of opportunities to rest, recharge, and celebrate!
Conclusion: Make the Most of UAE Public Holidays 2025
The UAE public holidays in 2025 provide wonderful opportunities to take a break from work, enjoy quality time with loved ones, or explore the rich cultural and natural wonders of the UAE. With a mix of spiritual, cultural, and national occasions, these holidays allow us to reflect, connect, and celebrate. Whether it’s the excitement of Eid Al Fitr, the sacrifice of Eid Al Adha, the joy of National Day, or the solemn remembrance on Commemoration Day, every public holiday offers something unique and meaningful.
Planning ahead can help maximize these holidays, giving you a chance to create memorable experiences. With holidays falling throughout the year, you can plan extended vacations or short weekend getaways, explore different emirates, or simply unwind at home. For those seeking cultural enrichment, there will be numerous public celebrations, events, and festivities to join.
To make the most of these holidays, consider the following:
Plan Early: Book your trips or accommodations well in advance.
Balance Rest and Activity: Some holidays are perfect for reflection, while others are great for fun.
Engage with Community: Participate in community events to celebrate national unity.
Remember, these holidays are not only a time to take a break but also a moment to honor traditions, reflect on the past, and look forward to a bright future. The UAE government ensures that both public and private sectors benefit from these holidays, creating a sense of balance and unity. So, mark your calendars, get ready to celebrate, and make the most of what 2025 has to offer!
FAQs About UAE Public Holiday Calendar 2025
How many holidays are in the UAE in 2025?
In 2025, the UAE will have at least 12 public holidays, with an additional day possible if Ramadan extends to a 30-day month, similar to 2024. The early announcement was made by the UAE government in May, as part of a review of several federal laws published in the official gazette.
What are the expected dates for Eid in 2025?
Eid Al Fitr in 2025 is expected to start on Sunday, March 30, depending on the sighting of the moon. The holiday could extend until April 2, giving a 3-day celebration marking the end of Ramadan.
How many public holidays are there in the UAE in 2024?
The UAE had eight public holidays in 2024, including Eid Al Fitr, Arafat Day, Eid Al Adha, Islamic New Year, Prophet's Birthday, Commemoration Day, National Day, and New Year's Eve. These holidays provided time for both celebration and reflection throughout the year.
How many public holidays in a year in Dubai City?
Dubai observes 14 official public holidays each year. Among the most significant is Eid Al Fitr, which is celebrated after the sighting of the crescent moon, making the exact dates variable.
How many weekend days in 2025?
In 2025, there are 104 weekend days, as it is a regular year with 365 days. This means the number of working days totals to 253, allowing ample time for leisure on weekends.
What time is Ramadan in 2025 in Dubai?
Ramadan in 2025 is expected to begin from the evening of February 28 and will last until March 30. During this holy month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset each day, avoiding food, drink, and smoking during daylight hours.
How long is Ramadan 2025?
In 2025, Ramadan is anticipated to last from February 28 to March 30. However, as the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, these dates are subject to moon sighting.
What year will have 3 Eids?
The year 2033 is expected to be special as it will have three Eid celebrations. This is due to the way the Islamic calendar aligns with the Gregorian calendar, resulting in an extra celebration of Eid within a single year.
How many days until Eid al-Fitr 2025?
As of now, Eid Al Fitr 2025 is expected to start around March 30 or 31. The exact date will be determined closer to the time, based on the moon sighting, as the lunar calendar dictates the timing of Islamic holidays.
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How are public holidays decided in the UAE?
Public holidays in the UAE are decided by the UAE Cabinet, often announced ahead of time for both public and private sectors. For major Islamic holidays, such as Eid, the actual date depends on moon sightings.
Can public holidays be carried forward if they fall on a weekend?
If a public holiday falls on a weekend, it may be carried over to the start or end of the following week. However, this depends on decisions made by the UAE Cabinet, and certain holidays like Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha are exempt from this carry-over.
Are there differences in holidays between public and private sectors in the UAE?
In recent years, the UAE government has aligned the holidays for both the public and private sectors, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the same holidays. This initiative promotes work-life balance and unity across the nation.
What are some unique ways to celebrate UAE National Day?
UAE National Day can be celebrated by attending parades, watching firework displays, and enjoying community events across different emirates. Many families decorate their homes with flags and enjoy traditional Emirati music and cuisine.
Is it common to travel during Eid holidays in the UAE?
Yes, many families take the opportunity to travel during Eid holidays, either within the UAE or internationally. Hotels often offer special holiday packages, making it a popular time for staycations or quick getaways.
What should you consider while planning vacations around UAE public holidays?
To make the most of public holidays, it is advisable to plan early. Booking accommodations or flights well in advance can help you secure the best deals. Additionally, staying informed about the exact holiday dates, especially those dependent on moon sightings, can help you make flexible plans.
Can local governments declare additional holidays in the UAE?
Yes, local governments in the UAE have the authority to approve additional official holidays that are not outlined by the national cabinet. This can sometimes result in region-specific holidays being added for particular occasions.
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.
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