Eid Al Adha 2025: Qatar declares 5-day holiday
UAE residents can expect a four-day break starting June 5
DUBAI: Qatar has confirmed a five-day public holiday for Eid Al Adha 2025, giving residents a significant mid-year break aligned with the Islamic calendar.
The holiday will begin on the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah – known as Arafah Day – and extend until the thirteenth day of the month.
According to astronomical forecasts, Arafah Day is expected to fall on Thursday, June 5, 2025. This date marks the start of the public holiday in Qatar. The Eid Al Adha celebrations will follow, beginning on Friday, June 6, with the break continuing until Monday, June 9, which corresponds to the thirteenth day of Dhul Hijjah. The dates, based on the lunar calendar, will be officially confirmed closer to the time through moon sighting.
Eid holiday in Qatar
The five-day holiday in Qatar applies to government ministries, public institutions, and most private sector organisations. It begins on the holiest day in Islam – Arafah Day – and includes the three days of Eid Al Adha, which fall on Dhul Hijjah 10 to 12, ending on the thirteenth day.
Eid Al Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice", commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. Before the act could be carried out, a ram was divinely provided in the son’s place. The day is marked by special prayers, animal sacrifices, charity, and gatherings with family and friends.
Eid break in UAE
In the UAE, Arafah Day will also be observed as a public holiday. This will be followed by a three-day Eid Al Adha break, giving residents a four-day weekend. Based on current calculations, the break will run from Thursday, June 5 (Arafah Day) to Sunday, June 8 (Dhul Hijjah 12).
While these dates are in line with astronomical predictions, UAE authorities will issue an official announcement following the sighting of the crescent moon. The moon-sighting committee plays a key role in determining the start of each Islamic month and public holidays tied to them.
Arafah Day
Arafah Day, which falls on the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah, is the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage and holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims. On this day, pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat near Makkah, engaging in prayer and reflection.
For those not performing Hajj, Arafah Day is widely observed through fasting and acts of devotion. While not compulsory, fasting on this day is considered highly rewarding in Islamic tradition.
Eid Al Adha follows immediately after Arafah Day. Worshippers attend special morning prayers and participate in ritual animal sacrifices. The meat is distributed among family, friends, and those in need. The festival also encourages charitable acts, community spirit, and spiritual reflection.