UAE Official Holidays 2024-2025: Your Essential Guide
Official UAE Holidays for 2024-2025: Essential Information You Need
The number and timing of official holidays in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can vary each year, though certain fixed dates and holidays connected to the Islamic calendar provide consistent reference points for planning. Below is a rundown of the official holidays for 2024 and 2025, applicable to both the public and private sectors, which are worth noting when organizing travel plans or family events.
List of holidays for 2024:
1. New Year’s Day: January 1, 2024 – This day marks the first official day off of the year, celebrated globally.
2. End of Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr: April 10-13, 2024 – Eid Al Fitr celebrates the end of Ramadan, lasting three days and marking a joyous close to the fasting period.
3. Arafat Day: June 16, 2024 – This day marks the pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage and is the day before Eid Al Adha.
4. Eid Al Adha (Feast of Sacrifice): June 17-19, 2024 – One of Islam's most important festivals, Eid Al Adha commemorates the story of sacrifice and involves many religious and family activities.
5. Hijri New Year: July 6, 2024 – The first day of the Islamic calendar year, symbolizing a quieter, reflective period.
6. Prophet’s Birthday (Mawlid Al Nabi): September 15, 2024 – Celebrating the birth of the Prophet Mohammed with religious prayers and family gatherings.
7. Commemoration Day: December 1, 2024 – A day to honor the UAE’s heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country.
8. National Day: December 2-3, 2024 – Celebrating the UAE’s founding in 1971, it is one of the most important national holidays, featuring parades, fireworks, and cultural events.
List of holidays for 2025:
1. New Year’s Day: January 1, 2025
2. End of Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr: March 30-April 2, 2025
3. Arafat Day: June 6, 2025
4. Eid Al Adha: June 7-9, 2025
5. Hijri New Year: June 26, 2025
6. Prophet’s Birthday: September 5, 2025
7. Commemoration Day: December 1, 2025
8. National Day: December 2-3, 2025
Important Information about the Holidays
The list of official UAE holidays often depends on the Islamic lunar calendar, meaning dates can change each year, notably for Ramadan and related Eid celebrations. Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha dates are determined by the lunar phase, so actual dates may vary by one day from the expected dates.
During these holidays, both public and private sector employees are given official leave. On state holidays, most shops and institutions have shorter working hours, and unique programs and events await residents. The official holidays are regulated and announced by the Presidential Affairs Ministry and the Ministry of Labour, enabling employees and companies to plan in advance.
How to Plan for the Holidays?
Longer holidays such as Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha offer ideal opportunities for domestic or international vacations and family events. It's advisable to book travel and accommodations early, as these periods see increased demand and bookings fill up quickly. Many hotels and resorts offer special holiday packages, so it's worth keeping an eye on local tourist offers.
The UAE's official holidays provide residents not only rest days but also a chance to connect with the local culture and traditions. Numerous events, fairs, and cultural activities take place during the holidays, offering experiences for all age groups.
Keep this list in mind and enjoy the opportunities provided by official days off over the next two years in the UAE!
