The UAE observes 14 official public holidays annually, combining both Islamic religious occasions and national celebrations. These holidays are divided between fixed dates on the Gregorian calendar and moveable dates based on the Islamic lunar calendar.
For 2025, residents and employees should note that government sector workers receive all 14 holidays, while private sector employees are entitled to a minimum of 10 days as per UAE labor law. Islamic holiday dates are confirmed through official moon sighting committees and are usually announced 1-2 days in advance.
Official UAE Public Holidays 2025
| Holiday Name | Gregorian Date (Expected) | Day(s) of Week | Duration | Islamic Date (Hijri) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 January 2025 | Wednesday | 1 day | 1 Rajab 1446 | Fixed – Gregorian Calendar |
| Eid Al Fitr | 31 March – 3 April 2025 | Mon-Thu | 4 days | 1-4 Shawwal 1446 | Subject to moon sighting |
| Arafah Day | 6 June 2025 | Friday | 1 day | 9 Dhul Hijjah 1446 | Day before Eid Al Adha |
| Eid Al Adha | 7-9 June 2025 | Sat-Mon | 3 days | 10-12 Dhul Hijjah 1446 | Subject to moon sighting |
| Islamic New Year | 27 June 2025 | Friday | 1 day | 1 Muharram 1447 | Hijri calendar beginning |
| Prophet’s Birthday | 5 September 2025 | Friday | 1 day | 12 Rabi’ al-Awwal 1447 | Birth of Prophet Muhammad |
| Commemoration Day | 1 December 2025 | Monday | 1 day | – | Fixed – Gregorian Calendar |
| National Day | 2-3 December 2025 | Tue-Wed | 2 days | – | Fixed – Gregorian Calendar |
New Year’s Day (1 January)
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year and is celebrated globally. In the UAE, it’s a single day public holiday for both government and private sectors.
The day is marked by fireworks displays, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Most businesses remain closed, though hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions operate with special events and offers.
Eid Al Fitr (31 March – 3 April 2025)
Eid Al Fitr celebrates the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. This is typically the longest holiday period in the UAE, with up to 4 days off for the public sector.
During this time, Muslims perform special prayers, give charity (Zakat al-Fitr), and celebrate with family gatherings and festive meals. Shopping centers and entertainment venues extend their hours with special promotions and activities.
Arafah Day (6 June 2025)
Arafah Day occurs on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, when Hajj pilgrims gather at Mount Arafah near Mecca. It’s considered one of the most sacred days in the Islamic calendar.
Many Muslims who are not performing Hajj observe voluntary fasting on this day. The holiday serves as a preparation for Eid Al Adha, which follows immediately after.
Eid Al Adha (7-9 June 2025)
Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It coincides with the completion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
The celebration involves special prayers, animal sacrifice (Qurbani), and distribution of meat to family, friends, and the needy. The UAE provides designated areas for performing sacrifices according to health and safety regulations.
Islamic New Year (27 June 2025)
The Islamic New Year marks the beginning of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the Hijra, Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.
This is typically a single day holiday observed quietly with prayers and reflection. Unlike the Gregorian New Year, it’s not marked by major public celebrations but rather personal contemplation and religious observance.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (5 September 2025)
Mawlid al-Nabi celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad on the 12th day of Rabi’ al-Awwal. Different Islamic traditions observe this day with varying practices.
Government offices and most businesses close for the day. Some communities organize religious lectures, poetry recitations about the Prophet’s life, and charitable activities.
Commemoration Day (1 December 2025)
Previously known as Martyrs’ Day, Commemoration Day honors UAE nationals who have given their lives in civil, military, and humanitarian service. The date marks the death of Salem Suhail Khamis in 1971.
The country observes a moment of silence at 11:30 AM, flags fly at half-mast, and official memorial ceremonies take place. This day immediately precedes National Day, creating an extended weekend.
National Day (2-3 December 2025)
UAE National Day celebrates the unification of the seven emirates on December 2, 1971. The country will celebrate its 54th anniversary in 2025.
The celebration includes official ceremonies, cultural shows, fireworks, and decorations in national colors across all emirates. Many businesses offer special promotions, and public buildings are illuminated with the UAE flag colors.
UAE Law Guidelines for Public Holidays
Legal Framework
The UAE Cabinet officially announces public holiday dates at the beginning of each year. Islamic holidays are confirmed by the Moon Sighting Committee based on lunar observations. Private sector companies must provide a minimum of 10 public holidays annually as per Article 74 of UAE Labor Law.
Compensation Rules
Employees required to work on public holidays are entitled to additional compensation. For regular public holidays, workers receive their basic wage plus 50% extra. For work performed on Eid holidays and National Day, employees receive their basic wage plus 150% extra, totaling 250% of the normal daily wage.
Weekend Adjustments
When public holidays fall on weekends, the government typically provides compensatory days off. If a holiday falls on Friday, Thursday is usually given as holiday. If it falls on Saturday, Sunday becomes the compensatory holiday.
Sector Differences
Government employees receive all 14 announced public holidays. Private sector employees receive holidays based on company policy, with the legal minimum being 10 days. Essential services like hospitals, utilities, and security services maintain operations with shift arrangements.
5 Tips to Maximize Your Time Off in 2025
1. Plan Annual Leave Around Holiday Clusters
Review the 2025 calendar to identify opportunities where taking 1-2 days of annual leave can create extended breaks. For example, the Eid Al Fitr period and December National Day holidays offer excellent opportunities for longer vacations with minimal leave days used.
2. Book Travel and Accommodations Early
Flight prices and hotel rates typically increase by 40-60% during public holidays. Book at least 6-8 weeks in advance for Eid holidays and 4 weeks for other holidays. Consider traveling on the first or last day of the holiday period when prices are relatively lower.
3. Monitor Official Announcements
Follow official UAE government social media accounts and the MOHRE website for confirmed holiday dates. Islamic holidays are usually confirmed 1-2 days in advance, so maintain flexibility in your planning for these periods.
4. Coordinate with School Calendars
If you have children, align your holiday plans with school vacation schedules. UAE schools typically have breaks during Eid holidays and National Day, but spring break and winter holidays may not always coincide with public holidays.
5. Consider Staycations During Peak Periods
During major holidays like Eid, international travel can be expensive and crowded. Explore local hotels and resorts offering special resident rates. Many UAE hotels provide attractive staycation packages during public holidays with added benefits like spa credits and dining offers.
