Planning your year ahead? Here's a comprehensive list of public holidays in the United Arab Emirates for 2025, applicable to both public and private sectors.
*Please note that Islamic holidays are determined by the lunar calendar and are subject to official announcements based on moon sightings.
🗓️ UAE Public Holidays 2025
1. New Year's Day (January 1)
New Year's Day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is a one-day holiday celebrated nationwide. Businesses, government offices, and schools are generally closed on this day, allowing residents and visitors to ring in the new year with festivities, fireworks, and celebrations.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official announcements from the UAE government, as Islamic holiday dates are subject to change based on lunar observations.
2. Eid Al Fitr (March 30 – April 1)
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is celebrated for three days. The exact dates may vary depending on the sighting of the moon. During this Islamic holiday, families come together to perform special prayers, share meals, and give Zakat (charity) to those in need. Many businesses and government offices remain closed, and employees are typically granted leave to celebrate.
3. Arafat Day (June 5)
Arafat Day is observed on the second day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. It is a one-day holiday that holds significant religious importance for Muslims, as it commemorates the Day of Arafah, one of the holiest days in the Islamic calendar. It precedes Eid Al Adha and is a time for fasting, prayer, and reflection.
4. Eid Al Adha (June 6 – 8)
Known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," Eid Al Adha is a three-day holiday following Arafat Day. It is one of the most important Islamic holidays, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Families typically perform the ritual of sacrificing a sheep, goat, or cow and distribute the meat among the poor, relatives, and friends. The holiday is marked by prayers, feasts, and social gatherings.
5. Islamic New Year (June 26)
Also known as Hijri New Year, this holiday marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year. It is a one-day holiday during which Muslims reflect on the migration (Hijra) of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina. Government offices and some private businesses may be closed for the observance.
6. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (September 5)
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, also known as Mawlid Al Nabawi, is a one-day public holiday in the UAE commemorating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
7. Commemoration Day (December 1)
Commemoration Day, officially on November 30 but observed on December 1 in 2025, is a day to honor the Emirati martyrs who sacrificed their lives while serving the UAE. It is a solemn one-day holiday marked by official ceremonies and national pride.
8. UAE National Day (December 2 – 3)
National Day celebrates the unification of the seven emirates and the founding of the UAE in 1971. It is a two-day holiday filled with patriotic displays, parades, fireworks, and cultural events. Residents and tourists alike join in the celebrations, making it one of the most vibrant and colorful holidays in the UAE.
Haneen Ibrahim
Haneen Ibrahim is the Head of Communications at ZenHR, with over 8 years of marketing experience in the HR tech industry. Specializing in content marketing, social media, and branding, she is passionate about thought leadership and sharing insights on HR topics, employer branding, and workplace culture.
