

Planning your 2025 in the UAE? Knowing the public holidays is crucial for both residents and tourists. The official list of UAE public holidays for 2025 has been released, offering opportunities for long weekends, travel, and cultural celebrations. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the announced holidays, helping you plan your year effectively.
Wednesday, January 1, 2025, marks the beginning of a new year, a day traditionally filled with hope and resolutions. As the first day of the year, it’s a global celebration observed with fireworks, gatherings, and reflections on the past year. In 2025, this symbolic day falls on a Wednesday, setting the tone for the week and the months to come. Many will use this day to establish new routines, set goals, and embrace fresh starts. It’s a day of universal anticipation and optimism.
Eid Al Fitr 2025 is anticipated to span from Monday, March 31st, to Wednesday, April 2nd, marking the joyous conclusion of Ramadan. This celebration, corresponding to the first three days of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar, is a time of immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. Families and communities will gather to partake in prayers, share festive meals, and exchange gifts, fostering unity and goodwill. The precise timing is dependent on the sighting of the moon, a tradition that adds to the anticipation and reverence surrounding this holy occasion. It is a period of celebration, and thankfulness.

Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha in 2025 will be observed from Thursday, June 5th, to Sunday, June 8th, corresponding to the 9th to 12th days of Dhu Al Hijjah. Arafat Day, a pivotal day in the Islamic calendar, precedes Eid Al Adha, where millions of pilgrims gather on Mount Arafat for prayer and reflection. Following this, Eid Al Adha commemorates the prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, and is celebrated globally with the ritual sacrifice of animals and the sharing of meat with family, friends, and those in need. These days are marked by deep spiritual significance, communal gatherings, and acts of charity, fostering unity and devotion within the Muslim community.
The Islamic New Year, marking the start of 1447 AH, will commence on Thursday, June 26th, 2025, corresponding to the first day of Muharram. This significant day in the Islamic calendar is a time of reflection and remembrance, particularly for Shia Muslims who commemorate the Hijra, the Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina. While not typically celebrated with festive gatherings like other New Year’s observances, it holds deep spiritual significance. Many Muslims use this day to contemplate the past year and set intentions for the year ahead, emphasizing themes of piety and devotion.
The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, known as Mawlid al-Nabi, will be commemorated on Thursday, September 4th, 2025, corresponding to the 12th of Rabi Al Awwal. This day holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide, who celebrate the birth of their prophet through various acts of devotion and remembrance. Many Muslims will observe this day by reciting poems, sharing stories of the Prophet’s life, and engaging in charitable deeds. It’s a time for reflection on his teachings, his example of compassion and leadership, and the profound impact he had on the world. The celebration emphasizes unity and love within the Muslim community.
Commemoration Day and National Day in 2025 will be observed on Tuesday, December 2nd, and Wednesday, December 3rd, respectively. Commemoration Day, held on the 2nd, honors the sacrifices made by the nation’s heroes. Following this, National Day on the 3rd celebrates the anniversary of the UAE’s formation, marking a period of national pride and unity. These consecutive days are marked by various events, including parades, fireworks, and cultural performances, reflecting the nation’s heritage and progress. It is a time for citizens and residents to come together and celebrate the spirit of the nation.
The announcement of the UAE public holidays for 2025 provides valuable information for planning your year. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, these holidays offer opportunities for celebration, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Stay tuned for official confirmations of religious holiday dates and make the most of your 2025 in the UAE.
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