United Arab Emirates Public Holidays 2025
United Arab Emirates has 8 public holidays and 0 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day | public |
| 27 Jan | Mon | Laylat al-Mi'raj | public |
| 1 Mar | Sat | First day of Ramadan | public |
| 30 Mar | Sun | End of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) | public |
| 6 Jun | Fri | Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) | public |
| 26 Jun | Thu | Islamic New Year | public |
| 4 Sep | Thu | Birthday of Muhammad (Mawlid) | public |
| 2 Dec | Tue | National Day | public |
About United Arab Emirates's Holidays
The UAE has a mix of national and Islamic holidays. National Day on December 2 celebrates the country becoming one nation. Commemoration Day on November 30 honors fallen soldiers. These are fixed public holidays with official events and parades.
Islamic holidays follow the lunar calendar so dates move each year. The biggest are Eid al Fitr after Ramadan and Eid al Adha during the pilgrimage season. People celebrate with prayers, family visits, feasts, and gifts. Working days off depend on moon sightings and official announcements.
Other observances include the Islamic New Year and the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. Schools, banks, and government offices close for major holidays. Private companies may set their own leave rules, but most follow the official holiday calendar.
Holiday Traditions
In the UAE people celebrate with respect for religion and Emirati customs. Days often begin with extra prayers and greetings. Families dress modestly and visit relatives. Hospitality and polite behavior are very important during celebrations.
Food is central. Large meals feature rice and slow cooked meat, with dates, sweet dumplings called luqaimat, and strong Arabic coffee. Children enjoy treats. Elders are honored and gifts or new clothes are common.
Public life becomes festive. Streets and buildings are decorated, fireworks light the sky, and malls host shows. Traditional dances like al ayala and music are performed. People show national pride and enjoy time together with neighbors and friends.
Travel Tips
The United Arab Emirates sees many public and religious holidays when shops, offices, and some attractions close or operate reduced hours. Plan for limited opening times, especially on weekends and official holiday dates.
Airports and hotels stay busy. Public transport like metros and buses run but may be crowded. Taxis and ride apps work well but expect longer waits and surge pricing during peak holiday periods.
Popular tourist sites, malls, and restaurants can be very busy in the evenings and during long holiday weekends. Book tickets, tours, and restaurant tables in advance to avoid disappointment.
Carry an ID copy, check official holiday calendars before travel, and allow extra time for journeys. Respect local customs and dress codes to ensure a smooth trip.