Planning your year ahead in the UAE? The official UAE public holidays 2025 calendar has been announced by the UAE Cabinet under Resolution No. 27 of 2024, confirming at least 12 paid public holidays for both government and private sector employees. Whether you’re a resident, expat employee, or business owner, understanding these dates is essential for maximizing vacation time, planning travel, and ensuring workplace compliance.
This comprehensive guide covers all confirmed public holidays, long weekend opportunities, cultural significance, and strategic planning tips to help you make the most of your time off in 2025.
Official UAE Public Holidays 2025: Complete Calendar
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) and Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) have confirmed that 2025 offers excellent opportunities for extended breaks, with several holidays falling adjacent to weekends.
Fixed Gregorian Calendar Holidays
New Year’s Day – Wednesday, January 1, 2025
The UAE celebrates the beginning of 2025 with a mid-week public holiday on Wednesday, January 1. All government offices, schools, and most private businesses will be closed.
Smart Planning Tip: Take Tuesday, December 31 off to create a 5-day break (Saturday-Wednesday) perfect for international travel or staycations.
Who’s Covered: All public and private sector employees receive this paid holiday as mandated by UAE labor law.
Islamic Calendar Holidays (Subject to Moon Sighting)
The UAE follows the Hijri lunar calendar for religious holidays. All Islamic holiday dates are subject to official moon sighting confirmation by the UAE’s International Astronomy Center and may shift by one day.
Eid Al Fitr – Sunday, March 30 to Tuesday, April 1, 2025
Islamic Calendar: Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3, 1446 AH
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, and is one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar. The UAE government grants 3 paid days off from Ramadan 29 through Shawwal 3.
Holiday Duration: 3 days minimum (may extend to 4 days if Ramadan has 30 days)
Long Weekend Potential:
- If Ramadan ends with 29 days: 3-day break (Sunday-Tuesday)
- If Ramadan ends with 30 days: 4-day break including Wednesday
Cultural Significance:
- Families gather for celebratory meals and traditional Emirati dishes
- Children receive gifts and money (Eidi) from elders
- Mosques hold special Eid prayers at sunrise
- Charity giving (Zakat Al-Fitr) is mandatory before Eid prayers
- Shopping malls host massive Eid sales and extended hours
Travel Planning: This is the peak travel season in the UAE. Book flights and hotels at least 2-3 months in advance. Expect premium pricing and full capacity at popular destinations.
Arafat Day & Eid Al Adha – Friday, June 6 to Monday, June 9, 2025
Islamic Calendar: Dhul Hijjah 9-12, 1446 AH
Eid Al Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The holiday coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
Holiday Duration: 4 days (including Arafat Day on June 6)
Automatic Long Weekend: Since June 6 is Friday, combined with Saturday-Sunday weekend and Monday holiday, residents enjoy a 4-day break perfect for summer getaways.
Cultural Significance:
- Muslim families sacrifice livestock (sheep, goats, cows) following Sunnah
- Meat is distributed among family, friends, and the less fortunate
- Special prayers held at mosques and outdoor prayer grounds
- Families visit relatives and exchange gifts
- Traditional dishes like Harees and Machboos are prepared
Strategic Leave Planning: Take Tuesday, June 10 off for a 5-day break, or combine with preceding days for a full week vacation.
Travel Tip: This coincides with European summer season. Consider domestic tourism or regional destinations to avoid peak international prices.
Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) – Friday, June 27, 2025
Islamic Calendar: Muharram 1, 1447 AH
The first day of Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar year and commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) historic migration (Hijra) from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.
Holiday Duration: 1 day
Weekend Extension: Falling on Friday creates a natural 3-day weekend (Friday-Sunday).
Cultural Observance:
- A day of reflection on Prophet Muhammad’s journey and sacrifices
- Islamic lectures and educational programs at mosques
- Families spend quiet time together
- Less commercial than Eid celebrations, more spiritual in nature
Practical Note: Government offices and banks close. Shopping malls and attractions remain open with normal hours.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid Al Nabi) – Friday, September 5, 2025
Islamic Calendar: Rabi’ Al-Awwal 12, 1447 AH
This holiday celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) on the 12th day of Rabi’ Al-Awwal.
Holiday Duration: 1 day
Weekend Bonus: Since it falls on Friday, UAE residents enjoy another 3-day weekend (Friday-Sunday).
Cultural Celebrations:
- Special prayers and religious gatherings
- Recitation of poetry praising the Prophet
- Charity events and community service
- Distribution of sweets and dates
- Islamic lectures about Prophet’s life and teachings
Perfect for: Short domestic trips to Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, or Abu Dhabi’s cultural attractions.
National Celebrations
Commemoration Day (Martyrs’ Day) – Monday, December 1, 2025
Officially observed: November 30, moved to December 1
Although officially November 30, Commemoration Day is observed on Monday, December 1, 2025, to honor UAE’s fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation, both military and civilian.
Holiday Duration: 1 day
Cultural Significance:
- Flags across the UAE fly at half-mast
- Moment of silence observed at 11:30 AM
- Wreath-laying ceremonies at Wahat Al Karama memorial in Abu Dhabi
- Schools and organizations hold tribute events
- Red, black, and white colors dominate decorations (omitting green)
Four-Day Weekend Alert: Combined with National Day (December 2-3), residents enjoy December 1-4 off, creating the perfect year-end break.
UAE National Day (54th Eid Al Etihad) – Tuesday-Wednesday, December 2-3, 2025
The UAE celebrates its 54th National Day, commemorating the unification of the seven emirates on December 2, 1971. This is the nation’s biggest celebration featuring nationwide festivities.
Holiday Duration: 2 days
Extended Break: Combined with Commemoration Day (December 1) and the weekend, UAE residents enjoy 4 consecutive days off (December 1-4).
Major 2025 Highlight: The highly anticipated Zayed National Museum is scheduled to open on December 3, 2025, making this National Day extra special.
Nationwide Celebrations:
- Grand Parades: Major parades in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and all emirates
- Fireworks Displays: Spectacular shows at Burj Khalifa, Corniche, and Sheikh Zayed Road
- Air Shows: UAE Air Force and Al Fursan aerobatic team performances
- Cultural Exhibitions: Traditional Emirati crafts, music, and dance
- Flag Decorations: Buildings, cars, and homes adorned with UAE flag colors (red, green, white, black)
- Concerts and Events: Free public concerts featuring Arab and international artists
Shopping Bonanza: Dubai Shopping Festival begins December 5 (just after National Day), offering massive discounts across malls and attractions through January 11, 2026.
Travel Opportunities:
- Explore newly opened Zayed National Museum
- Visit Dubai’s Expo City attractions
- Experience Yas Island’s winter festivals
- Discover cultural events across all seven emirates
Budget Tip: Hotels and attractions offer special National Day packages. Book early for the best rates.
UAE Holidays 2025: Quick Reference Calendar
| Holiday | Date | Day | Islamic Date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | – | 1 day |
| Eid Al Fitr | March 30 – April 1 | Sun-Tue | Ramadan 29 – Shawwal 3 | 3-4 days* |
| Arafat Day & Eid Al Adha | June 6-9 | Fri-Mon | Dhul Hijjah 9-12 | 4 days |
| Islamic New Year | June 27 | Friday | Muharram 1 | 1 day |
| Prophet’s Birthday | September 5 | Friday | Rabi’ Al-Awwal 12 | 1 day |
| Commemoration Day | December 1 | Monday | – | 1 day |
| UAE National Day | December 2-3 | Tue-Wed | – | 2 days |
Total: 12-13 paid public holidays (*depending on Ramadan duration)
Note: Islamic holiday dates are subject to moon sighting confirmation and may shift by ±1 day.
Strategic Holiday Planning for 2025
Maximizing Long Weekends: The Smart Employee’s Guide
Best Long Weekend Opportunities in 2025:
1. New Year Super Break (5 days)
- Official Holiday: Wednesday, January 1
- Take Off: Tuesday, December 31
- Result: 5 consecutive days (Saturday-Wednesday)
- Perfect for: International travel, European winter destinations
2. Eid Al Fitr Extended Vacation (11 days)
- Official Holidays: March 30 – April 1 (possibly April 2)
- Take Off: March 23-27 (5 days)
- Result: 11-12 consecutive days including weekends
- Perfect for: Major international trips, family visits to home countries
3. Summer Eid Getaway (5 days)
- Official Holidays: June 6-9 (4 days)
- Already includes: Friday-Monday
- Take Off: Tuesday, June 10
- Result: 5-day break
- Perfect for: European summer holidays, beach destinations
4. Mid-Year Mini Break (3 days)
- Official Holiday: Friday, June 27 (Islamic New Year)
- Natural Weekend: Already 3 days
- No leave needed!
- Perfect for: Domestic tourism, staycations
5. September Escape (3 days)
- Official Holiday: Friday, September 5 (Prophet’s Birthday)
- Natural Weekend: Already 3 days
- No leave needed!
- Perfect for: Quick trips to Oman, Ras Al Khaimah mountain resorts
6. Ultimate Year-End Break (11+ days)
- Official Holidays: December 1-3 (4 days including weekend)
- Take Off: November 23-27 + December 4-5 (7 days)
- Result: 15 consecutive days
- Perfect for: Year-end international travel, winter holidays, visiting family
Pro Strategy: By taking just 14 vacation days strategically, you can enjoy 45+ days off in 2025!
Travel Planning Around UAE Holidays 2025
Peak Travel Periods & Booking Timeline
Highest Demand Periods:
Eid Al Fitr (March 30 – April 1)
- Book By: January 2025 (2-3 months advance)
- Price Surge: 40-60% above normal
- Popular Destinations: Europe, Asia, home countries
- Airport Congestion: Expect long queues at DXB, AUH, SHJ
Eid Al Adha (June 6-9)
- Book By: April 2025 (2 months advance)
- Price Surge: 30-50% above normal
- Popular Destinations: Turkey, Greece, Maldives, Seychelles
- Summer Peak: Coincides with global summer travel season
UAE National Day (December 1-4)
- Book By: October 2025 (2 months advance)
- Price Surge: 25-40% above normal
- Popular Destinations: Domestic (Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah), Oman, Saudi Arabia
- Hotel Availability: Limited in UAE; book hotels early for local celebrations
Budget-Friendly Travel Tips
1. Domestic Tourism During Short Breaks
- Islamic New Year (June 27): Explore Fujairah’s beaches and mountains
- Prophet’s Birthday (September 5): Visit Al Ain’s cultural sites
- Commemoration Day: Experience Liwa Desert or Hatta
2. Off-Peak Booking Windows
- Book domestic hotels mid-week for weekend holidays
- Consider Tuesday-Thursday departures instead of weekends
- Use hotel loyalty points during peak periods
3. Regional Destinations
- Oman: Muscat, Salalah (30-40% cheaper than international)
- Saudi Arabia: Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla (new tourism destinations)
- Bahrain: Manama (short flight, affordable)
4. Dubai Staycations
- Explore Dubai’s best attractions during public holidays
- Take advantage of National Day staycation packages
- Visit newly opened attractions: Museum of the Future, AYA Universe
5. Early Bird Discounts
- Airlines release deals 8-12 months in advance
- Book summer Eid travel during winter for best rates
- Set price alerts on Google Flights, Skyscanner
Business & Employment Considerations
Legal Framework: UAE Holiday Regulations
Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 officially mandates public holidays for 2025, applicable to:
✅ Federal Government Employees
✅ Private Sector Employees (all companies registered in UAE)
✅ Free Zone Companies (unless specific free zone rules apply)
✅ Domestic Workers (entitled to holidays or compensation)
Important Legal Points:
Paid Holidays: All public holidays are paid days off. Employers cannot deduct salary for these days.
Working on Holidays: If business operations require employees to work on public holidays, they are entitled to:
- Regular daily wage PLUS 50% overtime pay, OR
- Compensatory day off within 30 days
Part-Time Employees: Entitled to proportional holiday benefits.
Leave Cannot Replace Holidays: Employers cannot force employees to use annual leave for public holidays.
Public Holiday Work Permits: Certain sectors (healthcare, hospitality, retail) may require employees to work but must provide proper compensation.
Workforce Planning & HR Best Practices
For HR Departments and Business Leaders:
Immediate Actions (Before January 2025):
- ✅ Update company calendars with all 12 confirmed holidays
- ✅ Communicate holiday schedule to all employees
- ✅ Plan project timelines around Eid breaks (major disruptions expected)
- ✅ Budget for potential overtime costs if operations continue
- ✅ Coordinate with clients on service availability during holidays
Staffing Considerations:
Critical Periods Requiring Coverage:
- Eid Al Fitr (4 days): Skeleton staff for essential services
- Eid Al Adha (4 days): Reduced operations expected
- National Day (4 days): Retail/hospitality sectors remain busy
Employee Leave Management:
- Implement leave request deadlines (60 days before Eid periods)
- Create fair rotation systems for working on holidays
- Offer incentives for holiday coverage (bonus days off, compensation)
Remote Work Policies:
- Consider remote work options during transition days
- International teams may need different arrangements
- Ensure clear communication protocols during extended breaks
Operational Planning:
- Manufacturing: Stock inventory before long breaks
- Retail: Plan for increased foot traffic during National Day
- Hospitality: Peak staffing during all holiday periods
- Healthcare: Maintain 24/7 operations with proper rotations
- Education: Align with school holiday calendars
Understanding Islamic vs Gregorian Calendar Holidays
The Hijri Lunar Calendar System
Islamic holidays follow the Hijri calendar, which is based on lunar cycles rather than the solar Gregorian calendar. This creates important differences:
Key Characteristics:
- Hijri year = 354-355 days (10-11 days shorter than Gregorian)
- Each month begins with the new moon sighting
- Islamic holidays shift approximately 10-11 days earlier each Gregorian year
- Dates are confirmed only after official moon sighting by UAE authorities
Moon Sighting Process:
- Astronomy Calculations: International Astronomy Center provides estimates
- Physical Sighting: Moon Sighting Committee confirms visual observation
- Official Announcement: UAE government announces confirmed dates (usually 1-2 days before)
- Flexibility: Dates may shift by one day based on sighting results
Why This Matters:
- ✈️ Travel Bookings: Book refundable tickets for Islamic holidays until dates are confirmed
- 📅 Event Planning: Keep flexibility in scheduling important events around Ramadan/Eid
- 🏢 Business Operations: Prepare for potential date shifts in operational planning
Gregorian Calendar Holidays (Fixed Dates)
These holidays occur on the same date every year:
- New Year’s Day: Always January 1
- Commemoration Day: Always November 30 (observed December 1 if weekend)
- UAE National Day: Always December 2-3
Cultural Significance & Celebrations
Understanding UAE Holiday Culture
Public holidays in the UAE represent more than days off – they’re essential to understanding Emirati culture, Islamic traditions, and the nation’s modern identity.
Eid Celebrations: A Complete Cultural Experience
Eid Al Fitr Traditions:
Pre-Eid Preparations:
- Zakat Al-Fitr: Mandatory charity given before Eid prayers (typically AED 25 per person)
- Shopping: Families buy new clothes (especially children)
- Home Cleaning: Thorough cleaning and decorating
- Food Preparation: Traditional sweets (baklava, luqaimat, kunafa)
Eid Day Customs:
- Early Morning: Special Eid prayers at mosques or outdoor prayer grounds
- Breakfast: First meal after month of fasting, often includes dates and coffee
- Family Visits: Visiting elders and relatives, starting with parents
- Gift Exchange: Children receive “Eidi” (money gifts) from adults
- Traditional Foods: Harees (wheat and meat porridge), Thareed (bread and vegetable stew), Balaleet (sweet vermicelli)
Eid Al Adha Traditions:
The Sacrifice (Udhiyah):
- Muslim families sacrifice livestock (sheep, goats, cows, camels)
- Meat divided into thirds: family, friends, and charity for the poor
- Performed after Eid prayers on any of the four days
- Professional services available through mosques and organizations
Community Spirit:
- Sharing meals with neighbors regardless of background
- Visiting relatives and strengthening family bonds
- Charitable giving emphasized
- Traditional dress (kandura for men, abaya for women)
UAE National Day: Pride & Patriotism
54th Eid Al Etihad Celebrations:
Public Events:
- Morning: Flag-raising ceremonies across all government buildings
- Midday: Grand parades featuring military displays, traditional performances
- Afternoon: Cultural exhibitions showcasing Emirati heritage
- Evening: Spectacular fireworks at multiple locations
Community Participation:
- Car decorations with UAE flags and portraits of rulers
- Traditional Emirati dress (national colors encouraged)
- Falcon shows and camel displays
- Henna art with patriotic designs
- Arabic calligraphy demonstrations
Commercial Celebrations:
- Shopping malls extend hours with special entertainment
- Restaurants offer Emirati cuisine promotions
- Hotels create themed staycation packages
- Attractions discount tickets for residents
Family Activities:
- Corniche celebrations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai
- Heritage village visits
- Traditional sports demonstrations (falconry, camel racing)
- Children’s activities and face painting
2025 Special Milestone: The opening of Zayed National Museum on December 3, 2025, adds historic significance to the 54th National Day celebrations.
Exploring Dubai & UAE During Holidays
Top Attractions for Holiday Visits
Eid Al Fitr (March-April):
- Dubai Mall – Extended hours, Eid sales, entertainment
- Global Village – Final weeks before seasonal closure
- IMG Worlds of Adventure – Indoor theme park beats the heat
- Ski Dubai – Families flock to indoor skiing
- Dubai Marina Walk – Evening strolls with fireworks
Summer Eid Al Adha (June):
- Indoor attractions recommended due to heat
- Aquaventure Waterpark – Beat the heat with water fun
- Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
- VR Park Dubai – Immersive virtual reality experiences
- Ice rinks across major malls
National Day Weekend (December):
- Burj Khalifa – Fireworks viewing
- Al Seef – Traditional celebrations along Dubai Creek
- La Mer – Beach parties and live music
- Dubai Frame – Panoramic city views
- Global Village – Peak season entertainment
- Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding – Learn about Emirati culture
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood – Heritage walking tours
- Dubai Museum – UAE history and traditions
- Etihad Museum – UAE formation story
- Jumeirah Mosque – Non-Muslim tours available
Shopping & Entertainment Deals
Eid Shopping Festivals:
- Pre-Eid sales: Up to 70% off at major malls
- Gold & jewelry special promotions
- Electronics deals (especially smartphones, laptops)
- Fashion brands offer “Buy 1 Get 1” deals
- Supermarkets run special food promotions
Dubai Shopping Festival (Post-National Day):
- Dates: December 5, 2025 – January 11, 2026
- Biggest Sales: Fashion, electronics, home goods
- Raffles: Daily car raffles, grand prize drawings
- Entertainment: Free concerts, fireworks, shows
- Discounts: 25-75% across participating stores
National Day Promotions:
- Hotels offer staycation packages (up to 50% off)
- Restaurants create special Emirati menus
- Attractions bundle tickets for families
- Retailers run patriotic-themed sales
Transportation & Services During Holidays
Public Transportation Schedules
Dubai Metro & Tram:
- Regular Holidays: Modified schedules with reduced frequency
- Eid & National Day: Free metro rides often provided
- Check: RTA Dubai app for real-time updates
Abu Dhabi Public Transport:
- Bus Services: Reduced schedules on public holidays
- Check: Darb app for current timings
Intercity Travel:
- Dubai-Abu Dhabi Bus: E100/E101 routes run with reduced frequency
- Intercity Taxis: Available but expect surge pricing during Eid
Essential Services Availability
Banking:
- ❌ Closed during all public holidays
- ✅ ATMs and online banking remain operational
- ✅ Some exchange houses open in tourist areas
Government Offices:
- ❌ All government entities closed on public holidays
- ❌ No visa processing, document attestation, or official services
- ✅ Smart government services (apps) remain available
Healthcare:
- ✅ Hospital emergency rooms operate 24/7
- ✅ Major hospitals maintain skeleton staff
- ⚠️ Clinics and non-urgent services often closed
- ✅ Pharmacies in hospitals remain open
Shopping & Dining:
- ✅ Major malls open (often with extended hours during Eid and National Day)
- ✅ Restaurants remain operational (some offer holiday specials)
- ✅ Supermarkets maintain regular or extended hours
- ⚠️ Smaller shops may close, especially during religious holidays
Delivery Services:
- ✅ Food delivery (Talabat, Deliveroo, Noon Food) operational
- ⚠️ Courier services may have delays
- ✅ Grocery delivery available with possible delays
School Holidays & Family Planning
UAE School Calendar 2025 Alignment
While not official public holidays, school breaks significantly impact family planning:
Winter Break:
- Approximately mid-December 2025 to early January 2026
- Aligns perfectly with National Day holidays
- Ideal for family international travel
Spring Break:
- Usually late March/early April
- Often coincides with Eid Al Fitr
- Popular for family vacations
Summer Holiday:
- Typically begins late June/early July
- Continues through August
- Eid Al Adha falls during summer break
Strategic Family Planning:
- Combine school breaks with public holidays for extended trips
- Book family-friendly resorts early during school holiday periods
- Consider educational travel during longer breaks
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How many public holidays does UAE have in 2025?
A: The UAE will observe at least 12 confirmed public holidays in 2025. If Ramadan has 30 days, Eid Al Fitr extends to 4 days, bringing the total to 13 holidays.
Q: Are private sector employees entitled to all public holidays?
A: Yes. Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 mandates that all public holidays apply equally to both government and private sector employees. All holidays are paid days off.
Q: Do Islamic holiday dates change every year?
A: Yes. Islamic holidays follow the Hijri lunar calendar and shift approximately 10-11 days earlier each Gregorian year. Exact dates depend on moon sighting and are confirmed 1-2 days in advance.
Q: What if a public holiday falls on a weekend?
A: If a public holiday falls on a weekend (Friday-Saturday), it’s typically moved to the following working day (Sunday or Monday) to ensure employees receive the day off.
Q: Can employers make me work on public holidays?
A: Certain sectors (healthcare, hospitality, security, retail) may require operations during public holidays. If you must work, you’re entitled to either: (1) Regular pay + 50% overtime, OR (2) A compensatory day off within 30 days.
Q: When is the next long weekend in UAE?
A: After New Year’s Day (January 1), the next long weekend is Eid Al Fitr (March 30 – April 1, potentially 4 days). Following that, Eid Al Adha creates a 4-day weekend (June 6-9).
Q: How early should I book travel for Eid holidays?
A: For Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, book international flights and hotels at least 2-3 months in advance. Prices surge 40-60% during peak periods, and availability becomes limited.
Q: What’s the best public holiday for international travel?
A: Eid Al Fitr (late March/early April) offers the best combination of weather (spring), duration (3-4 days extendable), and global travel conditions. The year-end break (December 1-4) combined with annual leave creates excellent opportunities for extended trips.
Q: Are shops and malls open during public holidays?
A: Yes, most shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues remain open during public holidays, often with extended hours during Eid and National Day. However, expect reduced operations during religious holidays.
Q: Do Islamic holiday dates get announced officially before they happen?
A: Tentative dates are announced well in advance, but final confirmation comes only after official moon sighting by UAE authorities, typically 1-2 days before the holiday begins.
Q: What happens if I’m new to UAE and don’t understand Islamic holidays?
A: The UAE is very welcoming to people of all backgrounds. During Ramadan, non-Muslims are not required to fast but should avoid eating/drinking in public during daylight hours out of respect. During Eid, join in the celebrations – it’s a time of community joy open to everyone.
Q: Can I combine annual leave with public holidays for longer vacations?
A: Absolutely! Strategic planning by combining annual leave days with public holidays can create extended vacation periods. The examples in this guide show how 14 leave days can yield 45+ days off in 2025.
Year-End Planning: Making the Most of 2025 Holidays
Top 5 Strategic Takeaways
1. Plan Early, Save More
Book Eid travel 2-3 months in advance. Flights and hotels during peak periods cost 40-60% more if booked last minute.
2. Maximize Long Weekends
By taking just 14 strategic annual leave days, you can enjoy 45+ days off in 2025. See the “Strategic Holiday Planning” section for detailed leave plans.
3. Embrace Cultural Experiences
Use Eid and National Day holidays to genuinely experience Emirati culture. Attend Eid prayers, join National Day parades, taste traditional foods, and learn about the UAE’s rich heritage.
4. Stay Flexible for Islamic Holidays
Islamic holiday dates shift based on moon sighting. Book refundable travel options or wait for official confirmation before making non-refundable bookings.
5. Budget Wisely
Hotel and flight prices surge during holidays. Set aside travel budget early in the year, or consider domestic tourism during shorter breaks to save money.
Resources & Official Sources
Stay Updated:
- UAE Government Portal: u.ae/en/information-and-services/public-holidays
- Ministry of Human Resources: Official announcements on labor regulations
- Dubai Calendar: dubacalendar.ae for events during holidays
- RTA Dubai: Transport schedules during holidays
- Visit Dubai: Tourist information and holiday promotions
Final Thoughts
Understanding the UAE public holidays 2025 calendar empowers you to plan better vacations, balance work-life commitments, and fully experience the UAE’s unique cultural fabric. With 12-13 paid holidays strategically spread throughout the year, 2025 offers excellent opportunities for both relaxation and exploration.
Whether you’re planning international adventures during Eid breaks, exploring local attractions during long weekends, or simply enjoying quality time with family during National Day celebrations, advance planning ensures you maximize every holiday.
Key Reminders: ✅ Save this calendar for quick reference throughout 2025
✅ Book peak-period travel (Eid, National Day) at least 2-3 months in advance
✅ Follow official government channels for Islamic holiday confirmations
✅ Plan annual leave strategically to create extended vacations
✅ Embrace cultural experiences during religious and national holidays
Bonus Tip: Consider visiting newly opened attractions during 2025 holidays – the Zayed National Museum opens on December 3, making National Day weekend extra special!
For budget-conscious travelers, explore Dubai’s free attractions or affordable local experiences during shorter holiday breaks. For comprehensive destination guides, check out our resources on Dubai’s top attractions, Abu Dhabi cultural sites, and family-friendly activities across the UAE.
Make 2025 your best year yet in the UAE – plan smart, travel wisely, and celebrate every moment of these special holidays!
Last Updated: November 2025
Note: Islamic holiday dates are subject to official moon sighting confirmation. Check back regularly for updates from UAE government sources.
Hi! We’re the Travel Blog Dubai Team — passionate travelers who explore Dubai every day to bring you honest tips, best places to visit, budget ideas, and real experiences.Whether you’re planning your first trip or you live in the UAE, our guides help you discover the best of Dubai, hassle-free.
