UAE's Three-Day Break for Prophet's Birthday

Three-Day Public Holiday in UAE: September 5th Off for Prophet's Birth Anniversary

The United Arab Emirates announced that on September 5, 2025, a Friday, public sector employees will receive a day off to celebrate the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) birthday. This decision aligns with the 12th day of the month of Rabi Al Awwal according to the Hijri calendar, which is celebrated as a religious holiday in many Islamic countries.

This announcement is particularly joyful for government workers, as it results in a three-day weekend — with the official weekend in the UAE spanning Saturday and Sunday. However, for public sector employees in Sharjah, this does not constitute an additional day off, as Friday is already part of their customary weekend.

Why is September 5th the holiday date?

The Hijri calendar, based on lunar cycles, begins each month with the sighting of the new moon. The start of Rabi Al Awwal was delayed to August 25 this year because the new moon was not observed on August 24, according to the country's astronomical center's report. As a result, the preceding month, Safar, was 30 days, with the 12th day of Rabi Al Awwal landing precisely on September 5.

Moon Observation: The Calendar's Foundation

In the United Arab Emirates, official moon sighting occurs on the 29th day of each Hijri month. The moon-sighting committee’s report determines the start of the following month. This procedure ensures that the dates of religious holidays adhere strictly to Islamic traditions. Islamic months can be 29 or 30 days long, depending on when the new moon is sighted.

Difference with Saudi Arabia

This year, a rare phenomenon was observed: the UAE and Saudi Arabia are not celebrating the Prophet's birthday on the same day. While the new moon was not seen in the UAE on August 24, it was visible in neighboring Saudi Arabia, so their Rabi Al Awwal began a day earlier, and the celebration will thus occur a day sooner.

This difference highlights how the dates of Islamic holidays can vary by country, even when geographically close. Since moon sightings are location-specific, each nation decides the start of months based on its own observations.

The Significance of the Prophet's Birthday

The Prophet’s (peace be upon him) birthday, or Mawlid Al-Nabi, is one of the most significant religious events in the Islamic world. While the form of commemoration varies by country, the common feature is that the event provides believers a chance to deepen their religious knowledge and reflect on the teachings of Islam's founder.

The holiday is often marked with special Friday prayers, religious lectures, and communal programs. Mosques in Dubai and other cities frequently hold ceremonies, and cultural events are also organized.

What This Means Practically for Public Sector Employees

With the announcement of the holiday, public sector employees can expect a three-day rest from September 5th to 7th. The long weekend offers an opportunity to spend time with family and loved ones, engage in religious practices, or even plan short domestic trips.

Such extended weekends are particularly popular in the UAE, especially before the start of the school year, as many families organize their last summer activities or shopping trips during this time.

Private Sector and Schools

Although the current announcement applies exclusively to the public sector, it is not uncommon for private sector companies to follow the government's example—partly for employee loyalty and partly to support work-life balance. However, decisions on work schedule adjustments remain at each company’s discretion.

For schools, government-maintained institutions will have an official break, while the decision to hold classes on the holiday falls to the discretion of private institutions. Based on recent years' experiences, most educational establishments align with the holiday.

Summary

The UAE's declared holiday on September 5th carries significant religious and cultural importance. The 12th day of the month of Rabi Al Awwal marks the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) birthday, providing believers a chance for reflection, spiritual renewal, and family togetherness.

The decision also illustrates how seriously the UAE takes religious traditions. Furthermore, because of the Islamic calendar's peculiarities, such holiday dates can change from year to year—even compared to neighboring countries.

Key Message

Following the Islamic lunar calendar is vital not only for religious but also for social and cultural reasons in the United Arab Emirates. Holiday announcements always rely on precise astronomical observations, ensuring the tradition's authenticity and continuity. The September long weekend offers relaxation, community, and spiritual deepening opportunities for the population.

(The article is based on an announcement by the UAE government.)