In 2025, UAE residents will benefit from up to 13 public holidays, as outlined in a new resolution issued by the UAE Cabinet. One of the significant changes next year is the adjustment to the holiday schedule for Eid Al Fitr, marking a notable shift from recent years.

Public and Private Sector Holidays

These holidays apply to both private and public sector employees, in addition to the 30 annual leave days available to them each year. This unique combination of public holidays and annual leave allows residents to plan up to three vacations annually.

Holiday Dates and Islamic Calendar

Most holiday dates follow the Islamic Hijri calendar, based on the lunar cycle. Corresponding Gregorian calendar dates will be announced closer to each occasion. Here’s the detailed list of public holidays for 2025:

Full List of Public Holidays in 2025

New Year: 1 Day Off

Date: Wednesday, January 1, 2025

Eid Al Fitr: Up to 4 Days Off (March-April)

Details: Eid Al Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, will provide up to four days off. If Ramadan lasts 30 days, residents will have holidays from Ramadan 30 to Shawwal 3. If it lasts 29 days, the holiday will be from Shawwal 1 to 3.

Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha: 4 Days Off (June)

Details: Arafah Day on Dhul Hijjah 9, followed by Eid Al Adha from Dhul Hijjah 10-12, gives residents a four-day break.

Hijri New Year: 1 Day Off (June)

Date: Muharram 1

Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday: 1 Day Off (September)

Date: Rabi Al Awwal 12

UAE National Day: 2 Days Off (December)

Dates: Tuesday, December 2, and Wednesday, December 3, 2025

Flexibility in Moving Holidays

According to the resolution, except for the Eid holidays, other holidays can be moved to the beginning or end of the week through a UAE Cabinet decision. If a holiday falls on the weekend, it cannot be shifted to a weekday. Local governments in each Emirate may also announce additional holidays as necessary.