Looking ahead to UAE Holidays 2025, one thing is certain — everyone loves a good break. In the UAE, public holidays aren’t just time off; they’re about reconnecting with family, discovering the nation’s culture, and enjoying moments of reflection and joy.
As 2025 promises to be a dynamic year with many possibilities, let’s explore UAE holidays — not just the dates, but what they truly represent, how to make the best of them, and how they influence life throughout the Emirates.
Whether you’re an inhabitant planning your holidays, a tourist wanting to experience genuine celebrations, or a company aiming to sync marketing efforts with festive peaks — this piece has you sorted.
Official UAE Public Holidays in 2025 (Tentative Dates) 📅
| Date | Day | Holiday Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day | Fixed Gregorian date |
| Mar 30 – Apr 2 | Sun – Wed | Eid Al Fitr (End of Ramadan) | Subject to moon sighting |
| Jun 5 | Thursday | Arafat Day | Islamic holiday |
| Jun 6 – Jun 8 | Fri – Sun | Eid Al Adha | Likely long weekend |
| Jun 26 | Thursday | Islamic New Year | Also based on lunar calendar |
| Sep 4 or 5 | Thu or Fri | Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday | Varies by moon sighting |
| Dec 1 | Monday | Commemoration Day | Honoring fallen heroes |
| Dec 2 – Dec 3 | Tue – Wed | UAE National Day | Biggest national celebration |
🌓 Note: Islamic holidays are determined by moon sightings, so actual dates may vary by a day.
What Makes UAE Holidays 2025 Special?
Holidays in the UAE are deeply rooted in tradition, but they’re also marked by joy, innovation, and community spirit. Whether it’s Eid or National Day, each occasion brings the country together — in malls, mosques, and public squares alike.
Here’s what stands out in 2025:
Eid Al Fitr (March 30 – April 2)
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Marks the end of Ramadan fasting.
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Characterized by early morning prayers, gift-giving, and feasts with loved ones.
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Malls in Dubai and Abu Dhabi launch mega sales and family entertainment shows.
Eid Al Adha (June 6 – June 8)
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Known as the “Festival of Sacrifice”.
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Usually a 4-day break including Arafat Day.
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Big cities organize fireworks, cultural festivals, and live concerts.
UAE National Day (Dec 2–3)
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A patriotic 2-day celebration with parades, light shows, and traditional performances.
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Expect record-breaking drone shows, desert events, and school celebrations.
How to Make the Most of UAE Holidays in 2025
Holidays are a gift — but only if you use them well. Here’s how you can truly benefit:
1. Plan Your Leave Smartly
Several UAE holidays fall near weekends in 2025, allowing you to stretch your time off:
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Eid Al Adha: If the holiday starts Thursday and ends Sunday, that’s 4 days off.
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National Day: Falling midweek, can be extended with personal leave.
2. Travel or Staycation? Your Call
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Staycations: Try luxury resorts in Ras Al Khaimah or eco-retreats in Hatta.
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Quick getaways: With short flights to the Maldives, Georgia, or Sri Lanka — many UAE residents plan 3–4 day breaks during Eid holidays.
3. Family Activities
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Cultural centers like Qasr Al Hosn or Al Seef organize special programs for children.
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Dubai Festival City, Yas Mall, and The Galleria in Abu Dhabi host themed family zones during long weekends.
4. Community & Volunteering
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On Commemoration Day, communities honor martyrs with moments of silence and local ceremonies.
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Many NGOs run charity drives during Ramadan and Eid. A perfect time to give back.
For Businesses: Aligning with the Holiday Pulse
If you run a brand or business in the UAE, aligning campaigns with holidays is a must:
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E-Commerce Boom: Shopping spikes 30–40% during Eid and National Day.
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Hospitality Sector: Hotel bookings rise up to 60% near long weekends.
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Retail Tips: Launch offers a week before holidays, especially during Ramadan.
Pro Tip: Build content calendars and marketing strategies around these dates to stay ahead.
Top Public Spaces to Enjoy UAE Holidays
| Location | Best For |
|---|---|
| Al Majaz Waterfront | Family picnics, fountain shows |
| The Corniche (Abu Dhabi) | Fireworks, beach activities |
| Global Village (Dubai) | Cultural shows, food tours |
| Sharjah Heritage Area | Traditional celebrations |
Holidays in the UAE aren’t just checkboxes on a calendar — they’re moments that bring people together. They blend religious significance, national pride, and joyful celebration.
As 2025 unfolds, use this guide to live your holidays, not just take them.
Whether you’re booking flights, planning family time, or simply hoping for some well-earned rest, knowing the UAE’s holiday calendar puts you in control of your year.
Source : uaelegislation
