UAE announces holiday for Islamic New Year 1447 AH
Next public holiday expected in September for Prophet’s birthday
DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially announced a public holiday on Friday, June 27, to mark the Hijri New Year, also known as the Islamic New Year.
The decision was shared by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) and will apply to all federal ministries and government departments.
The announcement aligns with the start of the new Islamic lunar year, 1447 AH.
What is the Islamic New Year?
The Islamic New Year commemorates the Hijrah, the historic migration of Prophet Muhammad from Makkah to Medina in 622 CE. This pivotal event marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar, making it a spiritually significant date across the Muslim world. While it is observed with less festivity than Eid Al Fitr or Eid Al Adha, it remains a recognised holiday in the UAE.
When is the next holiday?
Following the Hijri New Year, the next public holiday in the UAE will be Mawlid Al Nabawi, which honours the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. It is expected to fall on Thursday, September 4, 2025, subject to moon sighting.
Who benefits?
All employees working in ministries and federal entities will benefit from the official one-day break, providing a long weekend for many residents.