Comprehensive Guide to UAE Public Holidays 202
UAE Public holidays are necessary in every culture, as they give the citizens and residents time to take a break and relax, think, and rejoice. Public holidays in the UAE generally occur to celebrate significant Islamic events, historical dates, and other important days for the culture. Knowing the holidays expected in 2025 will help you plan vacations, long weekends, and time with family members. In this blog, we will give you a complete guide on public holidays in the UAE 2025 so that you get the most out of the year.
Why UAE Public Holidays Are Unique
The UAE has both Islamic and national public holidays. These holidays are a fusion of Religious Devotion, cultural pride, and National Unity. There are times when people belonging to different strata of society and those who visit this land come together to understand its heritage, enjoy the progress it has made, and feel the camaraderie of this place. Whether it is the religious connotation of Eid or the nationalistic passion of National Day, each of these holidays finds a special niche in the hearts of the people.
Overview of UAE Public Holidays
The UAE has Islamic and national public holidays. The Islamic holidays follow the Hijri calendar, which is lunar, so the exact dates of the holidays shift annually. National holidays, like UAE National Day, are fixed on the Gregorian calendar. Here is the list of UAE public holidays in 2025:
January 1, 2025: New Year’s Day
Ramadan 30: If Ramadan is a month of 30 days
1st Shawwal: Eid Al Fitr holiday
2nd Shawwal: Eid Al Fitr holiday
3rd Shawwal: Eid Al Fitr holiday
9th Dhu Al Hijjah: Arafat Day
10th Dhu Al Hijjah: Eid Al Adha
11th Dhu Al Hijjah: Eid Al Adha
12th Dhu Al Hijjah: Eid Al Adha
Muharram 1: Islamic New Year
Rabi Al Awwal 12: Prophet Muhammad’s (S.A.W) birthday
December 2: UAE National Day
December 3: UAE National Day
(Note: Islamic holidays are subject to moon sighting and may vary by a day.)
Key Takeaways of UAE Public Holidays 2025
1. New Year’s Day (January 1, 2025)
New Year’s Day begins the year and is a universal holiday worldwide. It is one of the best times of the year for residents to get a break from the festive season, with most people choosing to watch the fabulous fireworks in Dubai or cultural festivals in Abu Dhabi.
2. Isra and Mi’raj Night (February 28, 2025)
This Islamic holiday commemorates the miraculous night journey and ascension of Prophet Muhammad into the heavens. The day is a one-day holiday, and many UAE residents spend this time reflecting and praying.
3. Ramadan and Eid ul Fitr (March 30, 2025 – May 1, 2025)
Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims; they fast from dawn to dusk. The beginning of Ramadan is not a public holiday. Still, the end of this sacred month is a three-day holiday called Eid Al-Fitr, filled with communal prayers, festive meals, and charity.
4. Arafat Day and Eid ul Adha (June 6 – June 9, 2025)
Arafat Day happens to be the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage. It is followed by Eid Al-Adha, known to some as the Festival of Sacrifice. This holiday is so important in Islam. These three days are filled with family reunions, special prayers, and gift-giving activities.
5. Islamic New Year July 27, 2025
The Islamic New Year, or Hijri New Year, is a one-day holiday marking the day Prophet Muhammad migrated from Mecca to Medina. It allows people to rejuvenate and reflect on their spiritual lives.
6. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (September 15 2025)
It is also referred to as Mawlid al-Nabi. This special day celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W). Many residents commemorate this day through prayers, narrations, and cultural activities.
7. UAE Commemoration Day (December 1, 2025)
Once called Martyrs’ Day, it commemorates the Emirati soldiers and civilians who died to serve their nation. It is a day of solemn remembrance and thanks.
8. National Day of UAE (2 & 3 December 2025)
The United Arab Emirates National Day commemorates the country’s establishment in 1971. The residents and visitors enjoy parades, fireworks, concerts, and cultural exhibitions over two days, thus forming one of the most popular galas of the year.
Tips on Best Use of Public Holidays in the UAE
Book in Advance: Many residents make trips during public holidays. Flights and accommodations become quite pricey; hence, booking early may guarantee better deals and options.
Discover Locally: The UAE has a rich heritage and many attractions, such as Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Hatta Heritage Village, and Jebel Jais. These holidays are great opportunities to explore them.
Participate in cultural events: Many of the UAE’s national holidays host public events and celebrations. Involvement in such activities is a great way to learn and appreciate Emirati culture.
Show respect for traditions: On Islamic holidays like Ramadan and Eid, local customs such as dress code and fasting should be considered.
Conclusion
UAE public holidays in 2025 will be a great year filled with spiritual, cultural, and patriotic celebrations. While Arafat Day provides solemn observations, UAE National Day offers lively festivities. This is the perfect time for reflection, merry-making, and bonding. Knowledge of the significance and date of these public holidays will help residents and visitors schedule and appreciate more of what the United Arab Emirates has to offer. UAE public holidays are always the best for visiting local heritage, travelling abroad, spending quality time with loved ones, and creating memories.
FAQs
1. Is the date for UAE public holidays fixed annually?
No, public holidays, like Eid and Islamic New Year, according to the Islamic calendar, are not the same every year as they are according to the lunar calendar. Holidays that are nation-based, for example, UAE National Day, are fixed on the Gregorian calendar.
2. How many UAE public holidays in 2025 will there be?
There are about 14 public holidays in the UAE in 2025, which include Islamic and national holidays. Dates for Islamic holidays vary slightly depending on moon sightings.
3. Which of the UAE public holidays are most celebrated?
Eid Al-Fitr, Eid Al-Adha, and UAE National Day are the most celebrated holidays in United Arab Emirates. In these days, unite communities through festive meals, prayers, cultural events, and fireworks.
4. Can tourists join in the celebrations of UAE public holidays?
Tourists are encouraged to celebrate UAE National Day with parades, fireworks, and public culture exhibits. Islamic holidays observe local traditions.
5. How can residents plan vacations around UAE public holidays?
It is best to take leave to join the long weekend holidays. However, advanced flight and accommodation reservations are advised, especially for Eid and National Day holidays.
