Public Holidays in United Arab Emirates 2025
United Arab Emirates observes a number of public holidays that blend Islamic (Hijri calendar) religious observances with fixed national commemorations. The exact dates of Islamic holidays are confirmed through official moon sighting announcements.
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Overview of Public Holidays in the UAE
Public holidays in the UAE include fixed national days such as New Year’s Day and UAE National Day, alongside movable Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Islamic New Year, and Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday. Islamic holiday dates are finalized closer to the event based on moon sighting.
List of Public Holidays in the UAE (2026)
| Holiday | Expected Date (2026) | Day | Remarks / Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| Eid al-Fitr | March 20 – March 22 | Friday – Sunday | Marks the end of Ramadan; dates subject to moon sighting. |
| Arafah Day | May 26 | Tuesday | Observed during the Hajj pilgrimage. |
| Eid al-Adha | May 27 – May 29 | Wednesday – Friday | Islamic Feast of Sacrifice; multi-day holiday. |
| Islamic New Year | June 16 | Tuesday | First day of the Hijri calendar year. |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid) | August 25 | Tuesday | Commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad. |
| Commemoration Day | December 1 | Tuesday | Honors Emirati martyrs. |
| UAE National Day | December 2 – 3 | Wednesday – Thursday | Celebrates the founding of the UAE in 1971. |
List of Public Holidays in the UAE (2025)
| Holiday | Expected Date (2025) | Day | Remarks / Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Start of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| Eid al-Fitr | March 30 – April 2 | Sunday – Wednesday | End of Ramadan; multiple public holidays. |
| Arafah Day | June 5 | Thursday | Important day of Hajj pilgrimage. |
| Eid al-Adha | June 6 – June 8 | Friday – Sunday | Major Islamic Feast of Sacrifice. |
| Islamic New Year | June 26 | Thursday | Beginning of the Hijri year. |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid) | September 4 | Thursday | Birth of Prophet Muhammad. |
| Commemoration Day | December 1 | Monday | Remembers UAE martyrs. |
| UAE National Day | December 2 – 3 | Tuesday – Wednesday | National celebration of federation. |
Religious and Cultural Significance
The UAE’s public holidays reflect Islamic faith and national unity. Eid celebrations emphasize worship, charity, and family gatherings, while National Day and Commemoration Day highlight patriotism, leadership, and sacrifice. New Year’s Day aligns with international observance.
Public Observances and Closures
Government offices, banks, schools, and many private-sector businesses close on public holidays. Eid holidays often extend for several days. Because Islamic dates depend on moon sighting, final confirmation is issued shortly before the holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does the UAE have in 2026?
The UAE is expected to observe around eight official public holidays in 2026, with variations depending on Eid holiday duration.
Why do Islamic holidays in the UAE change every year?
Islamic holidays follow the lunar Hijri calendar, which is about 10–11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, causing dates to shift each year.
Conclusion
Public holidays in the United Arab Emirates reflect a balance of religious devotion and national pride. From the spiritual significance of Eid to the unity celebrated on National Day, these holidays bring communities together across all seven Emirates.
