These dates may be modified as official changes are announced, so please check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day |
| 29 Mar | Sat | Eid al-Fitr Holiday |
| 30 Mar | Sun | Eid al-Fitr |
| 31 Mar | Mon | Eid al-Fitr Holiday |
| 1 Apr | Tue | Eid al-Fitr Holiday |
| 5 Jun | Thu | Arafat Day |
| 6 Jun | Fri | Eid al-Adha |
| 7 Jun | Sat | Eid al-Adha Holiday |
| 8 Jun | Sun | Eid al-Adha Holiday |
| 26 Jun | Thu | Islamic New Year |
| 4 Sep | Thu | Prophet Muhammad's Birthday |
| 1 Dec | Mon | Commemoration Day |
| 2 Dec | Tue | National Day |
| 3 Dec | Wed | National Day Holiday |
The dates in this table are an estimate. We will update this page once the official dates for 2025 are released.
Here are explanations for each of these important dates:
Arafat Day
Arafat Day, also known as the Day of Arafah, is the 9th day of the Islamic lunar month of Dhu al-Hijjah. It is considered one of the holiest days in Islam, marking the climax of the Hajj pilgrimage. On this day, pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafat to perform the most essential rites of Hajj. Muslims who are not on pilgrimage also observe this day with fasting and prayer.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, following Arafat Day. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma'il (Ishmael) in obedience to God's command. God provided a ram to sacrifice instead, and Muslims around the world celebrate this event by performing animal sacrifices, distributing meat to the needy, and spending time with family and friends.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr, or the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It falls on the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal. Muslims celebrate with communal prayers, feasting, giving charity (zakat al-fitr), and spending time with loved ones. It's a time of joy and gratitude for completing the month-long fast.
Islamic New Year
The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year or Muharram, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the Hijra (migration) of Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina. The first month of the Islamic calendar is Muharram, and the first day of this month is celebrated as the new year.
Martyrs' Day
Martyrs' Day, also known as Commemoration Day, is observed in the UAE on November 30th. It honors the Emirati martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty for their country. Various ceremonies and events mark the day to remember and honor the bravery and sacrifices of these heroes.
National Day
National Day in the UAE is celebrated on December 2nd, marking the unification of the seven emirates and the founding of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. The day is celebrated with parades, fireworks, concerts, and cultural events, reflecting the pride and unity of the nation.
New Year's Day
New Year's Day, observed on January 1st, is the first day of the Gregorian calendar year. It is celebrated worldwide with various traditions, including fireworks, parties, and gatherings, to welcome the new year and reflect on the past year's achievements and challenges.
Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
Prophet Muhammad's Birthday, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, is celebrated on the 12th day of Rabi' al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam. The day is marked by prayers, recitations of the Quran, and various religious and cultural events to honor his life and teachings.