UAE Public Holidays 2025: Your Complete Planning Guide

Planning your year ahead in the UAE? Whether you’re juggling work deadlines, organizing family trips, or simply trying to figure out when you can finally take that long weekend break, knowing the public holiday calendar is essential.

The good news? 2025 brings plenty of opportunities to unwind, travel, and spend quality time with loved ones. From Eid celebrations to National Day festivities, the UAE offers generous holiday provisions that benefit everyone—whether you work in the government sector, private companies, run your own business, or are planning your children’s school breaks.

But here’s what many people don’t realize: not all holidays work the same way for everyone. Government employees might get different days off compared to private sector workers. Some holidays extend when they fall on weekends, while others don’t. And if you’re new to the UAE or just want to maximize your vacation days, understanding these nuances can make a huge difference in your planning.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about UAE public holidays in 2025—no confusing jargon, no missing details. Just clear, practical information that helps you plan better.

Complete List of UAE Public Holidays 2025

New Year’s Day

Date: January 1, 2025 (Wednesday) Who Gets Off: All sectors (Government, Private, Schools)

The year kicks off with a public holiday for everyone. Since it falls midweek, you’re looking at a standard single-day break. Many expatriates use this time to recover from New Year celebrations or plan short staycation getaways around Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Pro Tip for Private Sector Employees: If your company follows international business calendars, check whether January 2nd is also considered a holiday in your organization. Some multinational companies extend this break.

Eid Al Fitr 2025

Expected Dates: March 30 – April 2, 2025 (Subject to moon sighting) Duration: Typically 3-4 days Who Gets Off: All sectors

Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, and it’s one of the most celebrated occasions in the UAE. The exact dates depend on the sighting of the moon, so official announcements usually come just a few days before.

What to Expect:

• Government sector usually gets 3-4 days off
• Private sector employees are entitled to the same holidays
• Many businesses close or operate on reduced hours
• Shopping malls and entertainment venues see massive crowds
• Hotels and resorts get booked quickly—plan early if you’re traveling

For Families: This is prime time for family gatherings, special meals, and children receiving Eidiya (gift money). If you’re planning to travel during Eid, book flights and hotels at least 2-3 months in advance. Prices skyrocket closer to the dates.

For Business Owners: Prepare for closures by informing clients in advance. Essential services like healthcare and hospitality remain operational but with adjusted schedules.

Eid Al Adha 2025

Expected Dates: June 6-9, 2025 (Subject to moon sighting) Duration: Typically 4 days Who Gets Off: All sectors

Often called the “Greater Eid,” Eid Al Adha is based on the Islamic lunar calendar and commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice. This is typically the longer of the two Eid holidays.

Key Points:

• Usually offers 4 consecutive days off
• Falls approximately 70 days after Eid Al Fitr
• Coincides with Hajj pilgrimage season
• Many residents travel abroad during this period

Travel Planning: June is already a popular travel month because it’s the start of summer. Add a 4-day holiday to the mix, and you’ve got one of the busiest travel periods in the UAE. Flight prices to popular destinations like Pakistan, India, Egypt, and European cities increase significantly.

School Holiday Overlap: This typically falls during the summer school break, making it ideal for extended family vacations. However, tourist destinations globally are crowded during this time.

For HR Managers: Start communicating leave policies early. With summer holidays and Eid Al Adha coinciding, you’ll receive numerous leave requests. Having a clear rotation schedule helps manage staffing.

Arafat Day 2025

Expected Date: June 5, 2025 (Day before Eid Al Adha) Who Gets Off: All sectors

Arafat Day is a significant religious observance that falls the day before Eid Al Adha. It’s a public holiday in the UAE, effectively extending the Eid break.

Why It Matters: This day is considered one of the holiest in the Islamic calendar. Many Muslims spend it in prayer and reflection. For planning purposes, it means your Eid Al Adha break actually starts a day earlier.

Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year 1447)

Expected Date: June 27, 2025 (Subject to moon sighting) Who Gets Off: All sectors

The Islamic New Year marks the beginning of the new Hijri year. While less commercially celebrated than other holidays, it’s still an official day off for everyone in the UAE.

Planning Note: This comes relatively soon after Eid Al Adha, giving residents another break in the summer months. Not typically used for travel, but great for rest or local activities.

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid)

Expected Date: September 4, 2025 (Subject to moon sighting) Who Gets Off: All sectors

This holiday celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad. It’s a day of religious observance and reflection for Muslim communities.

What’s Open/Closed:

• Government offices closed
• Most private businesses closed
• Shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues typically open with normal hours
• A good day for leisure activities if you’re not observing religiously

Commemoration Day (Martyrs’ Day)

Date: December 1, 2025 (Monday) Who Gets Off: All sectors

This solemn day honors Emirati martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the UAE. It’s marked by lowered flags, moments of silence, and remembrance ceremonies across the country.

Observance:

• National moment of silence at 11:30 AM
• Flags fly at half-mast
• Special ceremonies and tributes
• Schools hold educational programs about national service

Respectful Behavior: Whether you’re Emirati or expatriate, it’s important to show respect during the moment of silence. Many businesses pause operations briefly to honor the occasion.

UAE National Day

Dates: December 2-3, 2025 (Tuesday-Wednesday) Duration: 2 days Who Gets Off: All sectors

National Day celebrates the UAE’s formation on December 2, 1971. It’s the country’s biggest patriotic celebration, filled with fireworks, parades, concerts, and festivities.

The Festivities:

• Spectacular fireworks displays across all emirates
• Free concerts and cultural events
• Car parades with flags and decorations
• Streets decorated in red, green, white, and black (UAE flag colors)
• Special discounts and promotions at malls and restaurants

Perfect Long Weekend: Since Commemoration Day (Dec 1) and National Day (Dec 2-3) fall consecutively, you get a three-day weekend. Many people use this to travel or enjoy the cooler December weather with outdoor activities.

For Tourists: This is an excellent time to experience Emirati culture and national pride. Hotels offer special packages, and there’s an infectious celebratory atmosphere throughout the country.

Understanding Holiday Transfer Rules

Here’s where things get interesting—and where many people get confused. The UAE has specific rules about what happens when a public holiday falls on a weekend.

The Weekend Transfer Rule

Current UAE Weekend: Friday and Saturday

Transfer Rules:

• If a holiday falls on a Friday, it’s typically not transferred to another day (since Friday is already a weekend)
• If a holiday falls on a Saturday, it may be transferred to Sunday (making it a 2-day weekend extension)
• Official announcements are made by the UAE government before each holiday

Important: Transfer rules can vary by year and specific holidays. Always check official government announcements from the UAE Cabinet or Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

Why This Matters

Let’s say Commemoration Day falls on a Friday in a given year. Government employees and most private sector workers already have Friday off. The question is: do they get an additional day?

In most cases, the answer depends on official announcements. The UAE government typically aims to ensure that residents don’t lose out on holidays, but the specific compensation mechanism varies.

Pro Tip: Follow official UAE government social media channels or news sources like WAM (Emirates News Agency) for confirmed holiday announcements, especially regarding transfers.

Private vs. Government Sector: What’s the Difference?

One of the most common questions: “Do private sector employees get the same holidays as government workers?”

The Official Policy

According to UAE labor law, private sector employees are entitled to the same public holidays as government sector employees. This is mandated by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

Mandatory Public Holidays for All:

• New Year’s Day
• Eid Al Fitr (3-4 days)
• Eid Al Adha (4 days)
• Arafat Day
• Islamic New Year
• Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday
• Commemoration Day
• National Day (2 days)

The Reality on the Ground

While the law is clear, implementation can vary:

Government Sector:

• Always receives official public holidays
• Holiday announcements apply immediately
• Consistent across all government entities

Private Sector:

• Must legally provide the same holidays
• Some companies follow international calendars (e.g., offering Christmas for multinational firms)
• Certain essential services (healthcare, hospitality, retail) may require shift work during holidays with compensation

Your Rights: If you work in the private sector and your employer doesn’t provide mandatory public holidays, this violates UAE labor law. You can file a complaint with MOHRE.

Compensation for Working on Holidays

Sometimes businesses need employees to work during public holidays. Here’s what the law says:

If you work on a public holiday:

• You’re entitled to a paid day off in lieu (another day off)
• OR overtime pay calculated as your basic wage + 50% increase for those hours
• Plus your regular day’s pay for that holiday

Example: If your daily wage is AED 300 and you work a public holiday:

• You receive AED 300 (regular holiday pay)
• Plus AED 450 (time-and-a-half for working that day)
• Total: AED 750

School Holidays 2025: What Parents Need to Know

For parents and guardians, coordinating school holidays with work schedules is crucial for family planning.

Key School Holiday Periods 2025

Winter Break:

• Typically mid-December 2025 to early January 2026
• Duration: Approximately 2-3 weeks
• Overlaps with National Day holidays

Spring Break:

• Usually late March/early April
• Duration: 1-2 weeks
• Often coincides with Eid Al Fitr

Summer Holidays:

• Late June to late August/early September
• Duration: Approximately 6-8 weeks
• Longest break of the year

Note: School holiday dates vary by emirate and educational curriculum (MOE, British, American, IB, etc.). Always confirm with your specific school.

Planning Family Vacations

Best Times for Travel with Kids:

• Winter Break: Great weather in UAE, perfect for local activities or international travel
• Spring Break: Moderate temperatures, good for regional travel
• Summer: Hot in UAE, many families travel abroad to escape the heat

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• Book flights 2-3 months in advance
• Avoid peak travel periods like Eid for better prices
• Consider shoulder season destinations (travel just before/after peak times)

Maximizing Your Holiday Planning: Smart Strategies

Now that you know the dates, let’s talk strategy. How can you make the most of these holidays?

Bridge Holidays: Creating Extended Breaks

A “bridge holiday” is when you use annual leave strategically to connect public holidays with weekends, creating longer breaks.

Example for 2025: If a holiday falls on a Tuesday, taking Monday off gives you a 4-day weekend (Saturday-Sunday-Monday-Tuesday).

Best Opportunities in 2025:

• Watch for holidays falling on Thursday/Monday positions
• Coordinate with your team early to ensure coverage
• Submit leave requests well in advance

Budget Planning Throughout the Year

Public holidays affect your budget in several ways:

Increased Costs During:

• Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha: Travel prices surge
• National Day: Hotel rates in tourist areas increase
• School holidays: Family activities and travel more expensive

Savings Opportunities:

• Shopping sales during National Day
• Restaurant promotions during Eid
• Entertainment venue discounts for residents

Financial Tip: Start a “holiday fund” at the beginning of the year. Set aside a small amount monthly for Eid gifts, travel, and celebrations. By the time holidays arrive, you’re financially prepared.

For Business Owners and HR Managers

Managing a workforce during public holidays requires planning and clear communication.

Legal Obligations

Your Company Must:

• Provide all mandatory public holidays
• Compensate employees appropriately if working on holidays
• Announce holiday schedules in advance
• Ensure contracts specify holiday entitlements

Documentation:

• Keep clear records of holiday scheduling
• Document any compensation for work on holidays
• Maintain compliance with MOHRE regulations

Operational Planning

Before Each Holiday:

1. Announce closure dates or modified hours 2 weeks in advance
2. Coordinate with clients and suppliers
3. Ensure adequate staffing for essential operations
4. Plan inventory for businesses that remain open

Employee Management:

• Create fair rotation systems for essential staff
• Process leave requests on first-come-first-served basis
• Consider offering flexibility for religious observances
• Plan team celebrations to boost morale

Cost Management

Holidays impact your bottom line:

Direct Costs:

• Paid holiday time for employees
• Overtime/compensation for those working holidays
• Reduced productivity before/after long breaks

Indirect Costs:

• Supply chain delays
• Client communication gaps
• Project timeline adjustments

Planning Tip: Build holiday costs into annual budgets. Factor in not just wages, but also reduced revenue during closure periods.

Expat-Specific Considerations

If you’re new to the UAE or planning to move here, understanding holidays helps with cultural integration and practical planning.

Religious Observances

During Ramadan (before Eid Al Fitr):

• Reduced working hours (typically 6 hours per day)
• No eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours
• Many restaurants closed during the day, open after sunset
• Respectful behavior expected from all residents

During Eid Holidays:

• Family-focused celebrations
• Gift-giving traditions (Eidiya for children)
• Special prayers and mosque gatherings
• Increased social visiting

Respect and Participation:

• You’re not required to fast or participate religiously
• Showing respect for local customs is appreciated
• Many expats enjoy Eid celebrations with Emirati colleagues and friends
• It’s a great opportunity to learn about local culture

Traveling During UAE Holidays

Exit and Entry Considerations:

• Airports extremely busy during Eid holidays
• Arrive at airport 4-5 hours before international flights during peak times
• Border crossings to Oman/Saudi Arabia congested
• Book airport parking in advance

Travel Documentation:

• Ensure passport validity (6 months minimum for most countries)
• Check visa requirements for destinations
• Keep UAE residence visa valid
• Carry Emirates ID at all times

Cultural Sensitivity and Etiquette

Understanding the cultural context of UAE holidays enhances your experience and shows respect.

During Religious Holidays

Appropriate Behavior:

• Dress modestly, especially in public areas
• Keep music and noise levels considerate
• Avoid public displays of affection
• Respect prayer times and facilities

Gift Giving:

• Dates and Arabic sweets are traditional Eid gifts
• Modest gifts appropriate for colleagues and neighbors
• Avoid alcohol-related gifts during religious holidays

National Day Celebrations

Show Your Support:

• Displaying UAE flags is encouraged (on cars, buildings, clothing)
• Attend public celebrations and fireworks
• Many residents decorate with national colors
• Participate respectfully in national pride events

What to Avoid:

• Disrespectful behavior during Commemoration Day moment of silence
• Vandalism or reckless driving during celebrations
• Cultural insensitivity in social media posts

Emergency Services and Essential Services During Holidays

Worried about accessing services during public holidays? Here’s what remains operational:

Always Available

• Emergency services (police, ambulance, fire)
• Hospitals and emergency medical care
• Pharmacies (many remain open, some with reduced hours)
• Petrol stations
• Airport operations

Limited or Modified Hours

• Government offices (closed on public holidays)
• Banks (closed, but ATMs operational)
• Public transportation (may run on modified schedules)
• Postal services

Typically Open

• Shopping malls (especially during Eid)
• Restaurants and cafes
• Entertainment venues
• Hotels and tourism services

Pro Tip: Keep emergency numbers saved: Police (999), Ambulance (998), Dubai Police Non-Emergency (901).

Official Resources and Where to Stay Updated

Don’t rely solely on word-of-mouth. Get information from official sources:

Government Sources

• UAE Government Portal: u.ae
• Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE): mohre.gov.ae
• UAE Cabinet: Official announcements on social media and news outlets
• Emirates News Agency (WAM): wam.ae

News Outlets

• Khaleej Times
• Gulf News
• The National
• Al Arabiya English

Mobile Apps

• UAE Government app (for official announcements)
• Absher app (for Saudi border crossings)
• Local emirate apps (DubaiNow, TAMM, Sharjah24)

Follow on Social Media: Most UAE government entities actively post updates on Twitter/X, Instagram, and Facebook. Turn on notifications for important announcements.

Final Thoughts: Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet

Public holidays aren’t just days off—they’re opportunities. Opportunities to rest, reconnect with loved ones, explore new places, or simply enjoy the life you’ve built in the UAE.

Whether you’re counting down to Eid celebrations, planning a National Day staycation, or coordinating family travel during school breaks, having this information at your fingertips makes all the difference.

The UAE offers one of the most generous public holiday calendars in the region, and with proper planning, you can make the most of every single day off.