When Is the Next UAE Public Holiday? Eid Al Adha 2025 Dates Revealed

Here’s when you can expect a long weekend, what the holiday means, and what other public holidays are on the UAE calendar this year.

Posted on

17 April 2025

| Last updated on 26 May 2025

by Vanessa Waimer

Eid Al Adha 2025 in the UAE confirmed public holiday dates

Mark your calendars, UAE!

Astronomers and Islamic scholars have begun predicting the likely dates for Eid Al Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) in 2025 and it could mean a perfectly timed long weekend for residents across the Emirates.

This year, the Muslim Festival of Sacrifice is expected to take place on Friday June 6th. Combined with Arafat Day that's been predicted for Thursday June 5th, this could mean a four-day long weekend for UAE residents whose weekends falls on Saturdays and Sundays! Work and classes in the UAE may resume on Monday June 9th.

What is Eid Al Adha?

According to early astronomical forecasts, Eid Al Adha is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, June 6, 2025. The day of Arafat considered the holiest day in the Islamic calendar, and the day before Eid is likely to fall on Thursday, June 5.. If these predictions hold, UAE residents could be looking at a four-day public holiday, from Thursday to Sunday (June 5–8), offering a welcome mid-year break.

However, as always, the exact dates will be confirmed by the UAE Moon Sighting Committee closer to the time. Official confirmation is expected on Tuesday, May 27.

What Is Eid Al Adha?

Eid Al Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice", is one of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was willing to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. In recognition of his devotion, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead.

The holiday is observed with prayers at mosques, the symbolic sacrifice of livestock (or charitable donations in lieu), and generous meals shared among family, friends, and the less fortunate. In the UAE, Eid Al Adha is not only a time of spiritual reflection but also a festive social occasion marked by shopping sales, entertainment, travel deals, and special gatherings.

Perfect Time for a Mid-Year Getaway

With the holiday likely to stretch across four days, many residents are already eyeing the break for some well-deserved rest. Whether it’s a staycation in Ras Al Khaimah, a cultural escape to Salalah, or a tropical jaunt to the Maldives, now is the time to start planning.

Expect demand for hotels, flights, and activities to spike closer to the dates, especially if the Eid break is officially confirmed for early June. So if you’re dreaming of a short but sweet escape, it’s worth getting ahead.

List of Remaining UAE Public Holidays in 2025

Beyond Eid Al Adha, here’s a look at the remaining official public holidays expected in the UAE this year (dates are tentative and subject to moon sightings):

Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) – Expected on Sunday, June 29
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday – Expected on Friday, September 5
Commemoration Day – Sunday, November 30
UAE National Day – Monday & Tuesday, December 1–2

When will Eid Al Adha 2025 start and end in the UAE?

Stay Tuned for Official Confirmation

While these dates are based on astronomical calculations, the final holiday schedule will be confirmed by government authorities. Bookmark this page and check back for the official confirmation closer to the date.

Until then, consider this your early green light to make plans, whether you’re spending it with loved ones, traveling, or simply catching up on rest. Eid Mubarak in advance!

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