Public holidays throughout the United Arab Emirates (UAE) provide citizens and people visiting the country numerous opportunities to combine vacations with family activities cultural events and religious observances. Understanding UAE public holidays is essential for readers because it helps them arrange their work commitments around available free time.
In this blog, I will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the eight public holidays in the UAE in 2025, their significance, and how you can make the most of them.
1. Eid Al-Fitr
Date: 30 March (Sunday)
Duration: 5 Days
The Festival of Breaking the Fast known as Eid Al-Fitr celebrates when Ramadan ends as Muslims complete their spiritual fasting month. People throughout the UAE show great enthusiasm to celebrate this major Islamic holiday.
What to Expect:
- Family Gatherings: The celebration includes families sharing meals during prayer sessions.
- Charity (Zakat Al-Fitr): Practicing Zakat Al-Fitr charity usually occurs before attending the Eid prayers.
- Festive Atmosphere: Malls, parks, and public spaces are decorated, and special events are organized.
Tips for You:
- Beforehand planning your visits to businesses is essential because these operations often run shorter schedules.
- The act of bringing a small present to your host remains proper behavior when you receive an invitation to an Eid celebration.
2. Arafaat Day
Date: 5 June (Thursday)
Duration: 1 Day
Religious observance of Arafaat Day takes place on the ninth day within Dhu Al-Hijjah. This Islamic month begins with the sighting of the new moon. The moment of assembly during Hajj at the plains of Arafat is of vital importance for Muslims who arrive at Mecca because they want to pray and ask for divine forgiveness.
What to Expect:
- Religious Observance: Most UAE Muslims choose to observe the religious requirement of fasting and praying during this period.
- Quiet Atmosphere: The day focuses on peaceful contemplation together with religious contemplation.
Tips for You:
- You should show reverence towards the religious importance that characterizes this day.
- If you are not fasting, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
3. Eid Al-Adha
Date: 6 June (Friday)
Duration: 3 Days
People in the UAE participate in Eid Al-Adha which stands for the “Festival of Sacrifice” to remember when Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) showed his devotion to God by offering to sacrifice his son. During all Islamic festivities, this stands among the main recognized holidays.
What to Expect:
- Sacrificial Rituals: Animals are sacrificed, and the meat is distributed among family, friends, and the needy.
- Family Celebrations: As occurs during Eid Al-Fitr people organize family functions to both pray together and share meals.
- Public Events: Spectacular public events at such occasions include fireworks celebrations along with both cultural shows and temporary special product deals.
Tips for You:
- When attending an Eid Al-Adha celebration you should expect an extensive feast with many guests.
- Due to limited business operations, you should make appropriate arrangements.
4. Islamic New Year
Date: 26 June (Thursday)
Duration: 1 Day
The Islamic New Year named Hijri New Year serves as the first day of the lunar Hijri year. During this time people should review their past achievements and establish fresh objectives.
What to Expect:
- Religious Observance: Many Muslims will participate in special religious prayers together with sermons during this occasion.
- Cultural Events: Specific organizations arrange cultural events during this occasion to mark the celebration.
Tips for You:
- The Muslim community uses this day to acquire knowledge regarding Islamic culture and traditions.
- During this occasion, people observe lower celebratory levels than during Eid festivities.
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5. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid Al-Nabi)
Date: 5 September (Friday)
Duration: 1 Day
Mawlid Al-Nabi represents the special date that marks the birthday anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Mawlid Al-Nabi holds important religious meaning and serves as a cultural anniversary event.
What to Expect:
- Religious Gatherings: Mosques and community centers will host events and lectures.
- Decorations: The streets along with houses become decorated because residents hang up lights and display banners throughout the holiday period.
Tips for You:
- People interested in Islamic historical background should consider participating in lectures and viewing cultural exhibitions during this period.
- You need to show respect for Islamic religious heritage throughout this occasion.
6. Commemoration Day
Date: 30 November (Sunday)
Duration: 1 Day
Commemoration Day, also known as Martyrs’ Day, honors the sacrifices of Emirati martyrs who have given their lives in service to the nation.
What to Expect:
- Official Ceremonies: During official ceremonies, the UAE flag is lowered to half-mast while notable ceremonies honor those martyred in military service of the nation.
- Moments of Silence: A minute of silence is observed at 11:30 AM across the country.
Tips for You:
- Devote a few minutes to think about the sacrifices that martyrs dedicated to the nation.
- You should join the local ceremonies holding special events that show respect to national heroes.
7. UAE National Day
Date: 2 December (Tuesday)
Duration: 1 Day
The seven united Emirates became one unified nation on December 2 of 1971 and the UAE National Day marks this historic event. On this day the nation observes both national pride as well as national festivities.
What to Expect:
- Fireworks and Parades: Spectacular displays are held across the country.
- Cultural Events: Emirati culture includes local musical performances with dancing alongside exhibitions showing native heritage.
- Decorations: Buildings, streets, and cars are adorned with the UAE flag and national colors.
Tips for You:
- The festivities include public gatherings or firework viewings for residents to participate.
- Showing national pride becomes easy through wearing the traditional UAE national colors (red and green and white with black).
8. New Year’s Eve
Date: 1 January (Monday)
Duration: 1 Day
New Year’s Eve receives broad celebration across the United Arab Emirates particularly in the cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi despite its absence from Islamic or national holiday counts.
What to Expect:
- Fireworks and Parties: The Burj Khalifa along with other iconic landmarks organizes spectacular fireworks displays during parties.
- Luxury Dining: Special luxury dining events paired with festive menus become highly popular at various restaurants.
Tips for You:
- Book your tickets or reservations well in advance, as popular events sell out quickly.
- A peaceful experience waiting for fireworks displays can be had from your residence.
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Final Thoughts
The United Arab Emirates schedules 2025 public holidays which create a meaningful combination between religious rituals and cultural traditions, national festivities, and traditional holidays. Both UAE residents and visitors can enjoy the opportunity to witness the vibrant cultural heritage and active spirit of the UAE during these public holidays.
By planning and understanding the significance of each holiday, you can make the most of your time in this dynamic country.
