Calendar of Official Holidays in Dubai for 2025
Dubai observes the UAE’s official holiday schedule, which includes 14 public holidays in 2025. This calendar blends fixed-date national holidays with Islamic holidays that vary based on the lunar calendar. Use this table to plan your travel, business activities, and family events for the year ahead.
| Holiday Name | Expected Date (Gregorian Calendar) | Dates (Islamic Calendar) | Number of Days Off | Sector (Public/Private) |
| New Yearâs Day | January 1 (Wednesday) | N/A | 1 | Both |
| Eid al-Fitr | March 30 â April 2 (Tentative) | Shawwal 1-3 | 3-4 | Both |
| Arafat Day | June 6 (Tentative) | Dhu al-Hijjah 9 | 1 | Both |
| Eid al-Adha | June 7-9 (Tentative) | Dhu al-Hijjah 10-12 | 3 | Both |
| Hijri New Year | June 26 (Tentative) | Muharram 1 | 1 | Both |
| Prophet Muhammadâs Birthday | September 4 (Tentative) | Rabiâ Al Awal 12 | 1 | Both |
| Commemoration Day | November 30 (Sunday) | N/A | 1 | Both |
| UAE National Day | December 2-3 (Tuesday-Wednesday) | N/A | 2 | Both |
Important Note: Why Do Dates for Islamic Holidays Shift?
The dates for Islamic holidays shift each year because they are based on the Hijri lunar calendar, which is about 11 days shorter than the 365-day Gregorian solar calendar. The start of each lunar month, and thus the holiday, is determined by the physical sighting of a new crescent moon. This ancient practice, known as “moon sighting,” is why final dates are confirmed by UAE authorities only a few days beforehand.
Official dates are confirmed by the UAE Cabinet closer to the event. For the most accurate information, it’s best to track updates on the official government portal. According to The Official Portal of the UAE Government, “Islamic holiday dates are finalized upon moon sighting, often announced by religious authorities close to the event.”
How Holidays in Dubai Affect Daily Life and Travel: Planning Guide
Public holidays transform the rhythm of Dubai, impacting everything from traffic flow to shopping hours. As someone who has navigated Dubai’s roads for over a decade, I’ve seen how these days bring immense excitement but also demand smart planning to avoid disruptions.
Tips for Tourists: What to Know
- Business Hours: Major shopping centers like The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates often extend their hours during holidays, becoming lively hubs for special sales and entertainment. Many tourist attractions also operate on extended schedules.
- Special Events: Expect a city alive with activity. Major holidays like Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr are celebrated with city-wide festivals, spectacular fireworks, and live concerts. The New Year’s Eve celebration is world-famous for its incredible displays.
- Traffic and Transport: Be prepared for significant traffic congestion, especially around popular venues. I’ve seen a 20-minute trip near Downtown Dubai turn into a two-hour ordeal during National Day festivities. The Dubai Metro is an excellent alternative, but expect it to be very crowded.
- Advance Booking: It’s crucial to book hotels and flights well in advance. Prices can easily double around peak holidays like Eid al-Fitr and National Day due to high demand from both international and regional visitors.
Information for Residents and Businesses
- Government Services: All government offices close completely during public holidays. Plan any administrative tasks or visa appointments accordingly.
- Private Sector: While the UAE Cabinet aims to unify holidays for both sectors, private companies may have slight variations. Most businesses, however, observe major holidays like Eid and National Day.
- School Calendars: School holidays are aligned with the official public holiday calendar, giving families time to celebrate together. This often contributes to the increased crowds at family-friendly destinations.
Key UAE Holidays: History and Traditions
Dubai’s holidays are a vibrant mix of national pride and deep-rooted Islamic heritage. Understanding their significance offers a richer experience of the city’s culture.
UAE National Day (December 2) and Commemoration Day (November 30)
The UAE National Day on December 2 celebrates the historic unification of the seven emirates in 1971, marking the country’s formation. It’s a day of immense patriotism, celebrated with car parades, dazzling air shows, and grand fireworks displays across the country. The preceding day, November 30, is Commemoration Day, a solemn occasion to honor the Emirati soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the nation.
Eid al-Fitr: The Festival of Breaking the Fast
Eid al-Fitr marks the joyous end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. The celebration begins with special morning prayers, followed by family gatherings, feasts, and the exchange of gifts. It is a time of spiritual renewal, charity (Zakat al-Fitr), and community bonding. In Dubai, the festive spirit is visible everywhere, with malls and public spaces adorned with decorations and hosting special events.
Eid al-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice
Known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. A key tradition is the sacrifice of an animal, the meat of which is shared among family, friends, and the less fortunate. This holiday emphasizes the values of compassion, charity, and community support, with families coming together for large celebratory meals.
Forecast of Holiday Days in Dubai for 2026
Planning further ahead? Here is a preliminary forecast for public holidays in 2026. Please remember that dates for Islamic holidays are estimates based on lunar projections and will be confirmed by official moon sightings.
| Holiday | Forecasted Date for 2026 |
| New Yearâs Day | January 1 |
| Eid al-Fitr | March 20-22 (Tentative) |
| Arafat Day | May 27 (Tentative) |
| Eid al-Adha | May 28-30 (Tentative) |
| Hijri New Year | June 17 (Tentative) |
| Prophet Muhammadâs Birthday | August 26 (Tentative) |
| Commemoration Day | November 30 |
| UAE National Day | December 2-3 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Holidays in Dubai
Are public holidays in the UAE paid?
Yes, official public holidays are paid days off for employees in both the public and private sectors. This is mandated by UAE labor law and confirmed by UAE Cabinet resolutions, ensuring consistency for most workers.
Do the private and public sectors always have the same number of holidays?
Generally, yes. The UAE government has moved to standardize the number of holiday days for both sectors to create uniformity. However, some minor variations can occasionally occur depending on a company’s specific policies, but all must observe the nationally declared holidays.
What happens if a holiday falls on a weekend (Saturday/Sunday)?
According to the UAE Cabinet Resolution, if a public holiday falls on a weekend, it is typically not compensated with another day off. The main exception is for Eid holidays, which may be adjusted by official declarations to ensure the full festive period is observed.
How many days in advance does the government announce the exact dates for Islamic holidays?
The final dates for Islamic holidays are officially announced a few days before they are set to begin. This announcement is made by a dedicated moon-sighting committee and is based on the physical observation of the new crescent moon, which marks the start of a new Islamic month.
