UAE Holidays 2025: Plan Your Days Off
UAE Holidays in 2025: Upcoming Public Days Off
Following New Year's Day on January 1, many people are already curious about the next public holiday in the United Arab Emirates. The UAE government has announced that there will be a total of 12 holidays in 2025, and if Ramadan follows the 30-day pattern as in 2024, an additional day off is expected.
This is significant as holidays provide an opportunity for rest and family time for residents, while also playing an important role in the economy by often boosting tourism and local commerce.
When is the next holiday in Dubai?
After New Year's Day, the next major holiday is Eid Al-Fitr, anticipated to fall between March 31 and April 2, 2025. This festival marks the end of Ramadan and traditionally signifies several days of rest, allowing many to plan spring trips or family activities.
Eid Al-Fitr is a time when Dubai offers special programs for locals and tourists alike, including spectacular fireworks, fairs, and unique cultural events.
Forecast of 2025 Holidays
Holidays in the UAE revolve around religious and national events. Here are the anticipated dates:
- New Year's Day: January 1 (Wednesday)
- Eid Al-Fitr: March 31 - April 2 (Monday - Wednesday)
- Arafat Day: May 30 (Friday)
- Eid Al-Adha: May 31 - June 2 (Saturday - Monday)
- Islamic New Year: June 27 (Friday)
- Prophet Mohammed's Birthday: September 1 (Monday)
- National Day: December 2-3 (Tuesday - Wednesday)
What if a holiday falls on the weekend?
Starting in 2025, the UAE implemented a rule that if a holiday falls on a weekend, it can be shifted to the beginning or end of the following week. This law was published in the official gazette of the UAE, aiming to ensure the benefits of a day off for the population. For example, if Islamic New Year falls on a Saturday, the day off may be moved to the following Sunday or Monday.
Why are holidays important in Dubai?
Dubai is one of the world's favorite tourist destinations, where holidays play a significant role in attracting visitors. During periods like Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha, many hotels and attractions offer special deals to enhance the experiences of both tourists and locals.
National Day, December 2-3, is also a prominent event celebrating the country’s history and culture with fireworks, parades, and cultural festivities.
Holiday Planning for 2025
If you live in Dubai or other cities in the UAE, it's wise to plan holidays in advance. Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha are particularly suitable for extended trips or family gatherings. The new regulations also make taking advantage of days off more flexible, even if a holiday falls on a weekend.
Whether it's a religious festivity, national remembrance, or simply a long weekend, UAE holidays every year offer exciting opportunities for residents and tourists alike.
