The UAE Cabinet has officially announced the UAE public holidays for 2025, a comprehensive schedule applicable to both public and private sectors. As per Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024, these holidays ensure that all residents can plan their year ahead with clarity. Here’s everything you need to know about the UAE public holidays for 2025, including a detailed holiday calendar and a summary of the total number of days off.
Summary of UAE Public Holidays for 2025
In 2025, the UAE will observe up to 13 public holidays, spread across various significant dates. These holidays are mandated by Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 and cater to both the public and private sectors.
Detailed Holiday Calendar
Here is the official holiday calendar for the UAE public holidays in 2025:
- New Year’s Day: January 1, 2025 (1 day)
- Eid Al Fitr: Shawwal 1-3 (3 days)
- Dates to be confirmed based on moonsighting
- Potential Additional Holiday: Ramadan 30 (if applicable)
- Arafa Day: Dhu Al Hijjah 9 (1 day)
- Eid Al Adha: Dhu Al Hijjah 10-12 (3 days)
- Islamic New Year: Muharram 1 (1 day)
- Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) Birthday: Rabi Al Awwal 12 (1 day)
- UAE National Day: December 2-3, 2025 (2 days)
Key Details on the Holidays
New Year’s Day
- Date: January 1, 2025
- Duration: 1 day
- Significance: Celebrates the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year.
Eid Al Fitr
- Dates: Shawwal 1-3 (Islamic calendar, based on moonsighting)
- Duration: 3 days (plus an additional day if Ramadan completes 30 days)
- Significance: Marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and prayer.
Arafa Day
- Date: Dhu Al Hijjah 9
- Duration: 1 day
- Significance: The day before Eid Al Adha, considered one of the holiest days in Islam.
Eid Al Adha
- Dates: Dhu Al Hijjah 10-12
- Duration: 3 days
- Significance: Commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah.
Islamic New Year
- Date: Muharram 1
- Duration: 1 day
- Significance: Marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar.
Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) Birthday
- Date: Rabi Al Awwal 12
- Duration: 1 day
- Significance: Celebrates the birth of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH).
UAE National Day
- Dates: December 2-3, 2025
- Duration: 2 days
- Significance: Celebrates the union of the seven emirates and the formation of the UAE.
Additional Information
- Article No.2: Allows the transfer of public holidays, except for Eid holidays, to the beginning or end of the week by a Cabinet decision.
- Article No.3: Public holidays cannot be carried forward if they fall on another public holiday or a weekend.
- Article No.4: Local governments may approve additional holidays for special occasions or other reasons.
Conclusion
The UAE public holidays for 2025 provide ample opportunities for residents to enjoy time with family and friends, reflect on significant cultural and religious events, and celebrate national pride. With 15 days of holidays throughout the year, it’s a perfect time to plan vacations, special events, or simply take a break from the routine. Keep this calendar handy to make the most out of the UAE public holidays for 2025.
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