Mark your calendars: The next big UAE holiday is almost here
Four-day Eid break expected, but final dates depend on moon sighting
DUBAI: Eid Al Adha is officially the next public holiday in the UAE and is predicted to bring a four-day weekend for residents.
Following closely on the heels of Eid Al Fitr, this holiday is expected to start on Thursday, June 5, 2025, beginning with Arafat Day, and continue through Eid Al Adha from Friday, June 6 to Sunday, June 8.
Though the dates are not confirmed yet, they follow the Islamic Hijri calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle. This means public holidays can only be finalised closer to the time, depending on the moon sighting. Dhu Al Hijjah – the month in which Eid Al Adha falls – will begin after the completion of Dhu Al Qa’dah, which started on Tuesday, April 29.
How it works
If Dhu Al Qa’dah lasts 29 days, the month would end on Tuesday, May 27, and Dhu Al Hijjah would begin the next day. This places Arafat Day on Thursday, June 5, and the Eid holidays through Sunday, June 8. If the month extends to 30 days, then Eid Al Adha could start on Friday, June 6 and run through Monday, June 9.
Bonus time off?
For those looking to maximise their break, taking just three days off (Monday to Wednesday) could land you a nine-day holiday, spanning two weekends. But keep in mind: all dates are subject to moon sighting confirmations.
UAE public holidays 2025
Looking ahead, the Islamic New Year is expected on Friday, June 27, and Prophet Muhammed’s (PBUH) birthday falls on Monday, September 1. The UAE Union Day will be celebrated with a two-day break on Tuesday, December 2 and Wednesday, December 3.