Somalia Public Holidays 2025
Somalia 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 |
| 30 Mar | Sun | End of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Labour Day | public |
| 6 Jun | Fri | Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) | public |
| 26 Jun | Thu | Independence of British Somaliland | public |
| 1 Jul | Tue | Independence Day | public |
| 5 Jul | Sat | Day of Ashura | public |
| 4 Sep | Thu | Birthday of Muhammad (Mawlid) | public |
About Somalia's Holidays
Somalia’s major holidays mix national pride and Islamic faith. The most noticed days are the two big Eids, which mark the end of Ramadan and the Hajj. These move each year because they follow the lunar calendar.
Independence Day on July 1 is the main national holiday. It celebrates the 1960 union of British and Italian territories. Government offices hold ceremonies and people mark it with flags, speeches, and local events.
Religious observances like the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday and the Islamic New Year are public and culturally important. Holidays often mean prayers, family meals, charity, and school and office closures across most regions. Local traditions and celebrations can vary by community.
Holiday Traditions
Somali holidays blend religion, family, and community. People dress in colorful traditional clothes. They pray at mosques for Islamic holidays and visit elders. Respect and hospitality are important. Children often receive small gifts or new clothes.
Food is central to celebration. Families prepare big meals with rice, stews, grilled meat, and flatbread. Sweet pastries and tea are shared. Cooking is a group activity where relatives bring special dishes and recipes are passed down.
Public celebrations include singing, poetry, and dance. Markets become lively with music and decorations. Neighbors visit each other and hospitality is offered to guests. The mood is joyful and focused on togetherness, giving, and honoring tradition.
Travel Tips
Traveling to Somalia (so) during the holiday season means many government offices, banks, and some shops close for national and religious holidays. Plan ahead for paperwork and banking needs before holiday dates.
Public transport and flights can be limited or changed. Domestic ferries and small airlines may reduce schedules. Book tickets early and keep flexible plans in case of last minute changes.
Major cities and airports get busy before and after holidays. Expect crowds, higher fares, and longer lines. Allow extra time for check in, security, and road travel to avoid missing connections.
Carry cash, copies of documents, and emergency contacts. Respect local customs and dress. Check local news and your embassy advice for safety and updated transport or closure information.