Public holidays offer a welcome break from our busy routines, and in a vibrant country like the UAE, they hold cultural, spiritual, and national significance. Whether you’re a resident, an expat, or planning a trip to the UAE, knowing the UAE holidays in 2025 will help you prepare for celebrations, travel, or simply a few relaxing days at home. This guide explores the predicted public holidays, their historical and cultural importance, and how you can make the most of each occasion.

Complete Calendar of UAE Public Holidays in 2025

Date	Day	Holiday
January 1	Wednesday	New Year’s Day
March 29	Saturday	Eid Al Fitr Holiday
March 30	Sunday	Eid Al Fitr
March 31	Monday	Eid Al Fitr Holiday
April 1	Tuesday	Eid Al Fitr Holiday
May 30	Friday	Arafat Day
May 31	Saturday	Eid Al Adha
June 1	Sunday	Eid Al Adha Holiday
June 2	Monday	Eid Al Adha Holiday
June 27	Friday	Islamic New Year
September 4	Thursday	Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday
December 1	Monday	Commemoration Day
December 2	Tuesday	National Day
December 3	Wednesday	National Day Holiday

This year’s calendar includes holidays with extended weekends, making it an excellent time for leisure and travel. Let’s take a closer look at each holiday.

New Year’s Day (January 1, Wednesday)

The first holiday of the year, New Year’s Day, is celebrated on January 1st. This midweek break offers a chance to start 2025 on a festive note. Cities across the UAE, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, light up with fireworks and events, making it a perfect day to enjoy with family and friends.

How to Spend It:

• Watch the iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks.
• Enjoy concerts, and family-friendly activities, or visit the Global Village for a cultural celebration.
• Take the day to set goals and reflect on the upcoming year.

Eid Al Fitr (March 29 – April 1)

Eid Al Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, is one of the most celebrated Islamic holidays in the UAE. Ramadan is a sacred month of fasting, reflection, and charity for Muslims, and Eid Al Fitr brings an atmosphere of joy and gratitude. In 2025, Eid Al Fitr is expected to start on Saturday, March 29, and extend for four days until Tuesday, April 1.

Cultural Significance

• Families gather for prayers and share festive meals.
• Gifts, often called Eidiya, are exchanged, particularly for children.
• Acts of charity and giving are a highlight of this holiday.

How to Celebrate

• Join the morning prayers at your local mosque.
• Explore the festive markets and malls decorated for the occasion.
• Participate in community events or enjoy traditional Emirati cuisine at cultural venues.

Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha (May 30 – June 2)

Arafat Day, falling on Friday, May 30, is a significant day in the Islamic calendar as it marks the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage. It is followed by Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, from Saturday, May 31, to Monday, June 2.

Cultural Significance

Eid Al Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. The holiday is marked by the symbolic sacrifice of livestock, prayers, and communal meals.

How to Spend These Days

• Attend Arafat Day prayers and reflect on its spiritual meaning.
• Participate in family gatherings and enjoy traditional dishes like machboos and harees.
• Use the extended holiday for a quick getaway to nearby destinations like Oman or Jordan.

Islamic New Year (June 27, Friday)

The Islamic New Year holiday in the UAE marks the beginning of the Hijri calendar. Expected to fall on Friday, June 27, this day is observed quietly, making it a time for reflection and new beginnings.

Cultural Significance

Islamic New Year, or Hijri New Year, celebrates the migration (Hijra) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Mecca to Medina. Unlike Gregorian New Year celebrations, this holiday is more about introspection than festivities.

How to Celebrate

• Spend the day in prayer or learning more about Islamic history.
• Enjoy a peaceful family day or visit a cultural site like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
• Take advantage of the long weekend to relax or rejuvenate.

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (September 4, Thursday)

Known as Mawlid Al-Nabi, the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday is a day to honor the life and teachings of Islam’s beloved prophet. It is predicted to fall on Thursday, September 4, providing a long weekend for residents and visitors.

Cultural Significance

This day is marked by spiritual gatherings, religious discussions, and charitable acts across the UAE.

How to Spend It

• Attend a cultural lecture or event in your local community.
• Volunteer or participate in charitable activities to honor the Prophet’s legacy.
• Spend quality time with your family or visit the UAE’s spiritual landmarks.

Commemoration Day and National Day (December 1 – 3)

As the year comes to a close, the UAE celebrates two significant holidays back-to-back. Commemoration Day, observed on Monday, December 1, honors the sacrifices of Emirati martyrs. It is followed by National Day on Tuesday, December 2, with an additional holiday on Wednesday, December 3.

Cultural Significance

National Day celebrates the formation of the UAE in 1971. The country unites with parades, fireworks displays, and cultural events.

How to Celebrate

• Watch the National Day parade in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
• Explore local heritage sites to learn about the UAE’s history.
• Attend fireworks shows or join in community celebrations.

Tips to Maximize UAE Public Holidays in 2025

1. Plan Ahead: Book flights, accommodations, or activities well in advance for holidays like Eid Al Adha 2025 or National Day, which often attract crowds.
2. Explore Locally: Discover the UAE’s hidden gems, from Fujairah’s serene beaches to Ras Al Khaimah’s majestic mountains.
3. Balance Rest and Fun: Use reflective holidays like Islamic New Year to relax and recharge, while using festive occasions for travel or family time.
4. Engage in Culture: Take part in local traditions and events during holidays like Eid Al Fitr or Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday to deepen your understanding of Emirati culture.

The Meaning Behind UAE Public Holidays

Public holidays in the United Arab Emirates are more than just days off; they have national, cultural, and spiritual importance. These holidays unite people and emphasize the country’s ideals, from celebrating the conclusion of Ramadan on Eid Al Fitr to commemorating the UAE’s togetherness on National Day.

Conclusion

With an interesting list of public holidays, UAE holidays in 2025 offer plenty of opportunities for celebration, mindfulness, and adventure. These holidays accommodate everyone’s needs, whether you’re looking for cultural activities, anticipating family get-togethers, or organizing a quick vacation.

So, mark your calendar, start planning, and prepare to make 2025 a year filled with meaningful moments. What will you do on the next public holiday in the UAE? Let us know your plans!