Kuwait announces Eid Al Adha 2025 holidays – When’s the UAE break?
Astronomers forecast Dhu Al Hijjah to begin on May 28 this year
DUBAI: Anticipation is building as Gulf nations prepare for Eid Al Adha 2025, with Kuwait officially declaring a four-day public holiday from Thursday, June 5, to Sunday, June 8.
In addition, Monday, June 9, has been designated as a rest day, allowing citizens and residents to enjoy an extended break before returning to work on Tuesday, June 10.
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), while the official Eid Al Adha dates have not yet been formally announced, the public can expect a similar schedule. As per the UAE Cabinet’s holiday list, residents will receive days off from Dhu Al Hijjah 9 to 12 – translating to a long weekend from Thursday, June 5, through Sunday, June 8, if astronomical projections hold.
Eid Al Adha 2025 in UAE
The Emirates Astronomy Society has forecast that the crescent moon marking the start of Dhu Al Hijjah will be visible on the evening of Tuesday, May 27. This would place the first day of the Islamic month on Wednesday, May 28.
According to Islamic tradition, Eid Al Adha is observed on the 10th day of Dhu Al Hijjah, meaning this year’s Eid celebrations are predicted to begin on Friday, June 6. The Day of Arafah – a significant day of fasting and prayer – is expected on Thursday, June 5.
Eid Al Adha
Eid Al Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most revered occasions in the Islamic calendar, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and willingness to sacrifice his son. Muslims around the world mark the occasion with communal prayers, feasts, charitable donations, and gatherings with friends and family.
In the UAE, Eid Al Adha typically brings one of the longest public holidays of the year. While dates are subject to moon sighting confirmations by relevant authorities, the pattern closely follows Kuwait’s announcement this year.
As per UAE labour laws updated in 2025, holidays falling on weekends are no longer shifted to weekdays, except for a few exceptions. However, Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr are not affected by this rule, meaning that if a day like Friday or Saturday coincides with Eid, there will be no compensation day granted.
That said, with Arafat Day likely on a Thursday and Eid Al Adha spanning the following three days, the UAE is still set for a solid four-day holiday, perfect for a getaway, local celebration, or time spent with loved ones.
Arafat Day
Arafat Day – falling one day before Eid – is observed by millions of Muslims worldwide as a day of reflection and fasting. It coincides with the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah, where pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat for prayers and sermons.
For those not performing Hajj, fasting on this day is considered highly rewarding. Many mosques in the UAE host special sermons and prayer gatherings to mark the day’s spiritual importance.
On the morning of Eid Al Adha, Muslims begin their day with a special prayer known as “Salat al-Eid,” often held in large congregations at mosques or outdoor prayer grounds. Sacrificial offerings are made, with a portion of the meat traditionally distributed to the needy.
Across the UAE, the occasion is also celebrated with a vibrant mix of community events, fireworks, and cultural activities. Retailers and malls usually roll out major sales and promotions, while hotels and tourist destinations prepare special packages for families and visitors.
With the Islamic lunar calendar running 10 to 12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, Eid Al Adha continues to shift earlier each year. In 2024, the festival fell in mid-June, while this year’s observance comes in the first week of the month – marking a seasonal shift that many travellers and holidaymakers are keen to take advantage of.