What are the next UAE public holidays after Eid Al Adha? Here are the big holidays of 2025

With Eid Al Adha bringing a welcome four-day weekend in early June, many across the UAE are already asking the next logical question: when’s the next break?

Whether you’re hoping to travel, spend time with family, or simply hit pause, there’s still more to look forward to this year. The UAE Cabinet has confirmed 12 official public holidays for 2025, and with Eid behind us, three are still to come. Here’s a quick look at what’s next and how to make the most of each one.

Quick recap: Eid Al Adha in early June

According to the moon-sighting committee, Arafat Day will fall on Thursday, 5 June, with Eid Al Adha beginning on Friday, 6 June. With regular weekends factored in, most UAE residents will enjoy a four-day break through Sunday, 8 June.

This extended weekend marks one of the longest public holidays of the year, combining religious observance with a chance to unwind.

1. Islamic New Year – Thursday, 26 June

Just a few weeks later, the UAE will mark the first day of Muharram, signalling the start of the Islamic New Year.

While this is a quieter, more reflective occasion—often observed with prayer and family time—it also offers a smart opportunity for a long weekend. Since it falls on a Thursday, those who take Friday off as annual leave can enjoy another four-day break.

2. Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday – Friday, 5 September

Known as Mawlid Al-Nabi, this holiday commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and lands on Friday, 5 September this year.

It’s traditionally observed through religious lectures, community events, and gatherings. The timing—on a Friday—naturally sets up a three-day weekend, providing a break just as the post-summer routine begins to settle in.

3. UAE National Day – Tuesday and Wednesday, 2–3 December

The final—and perhaps most festive—public holiday of the year is UAE National Day, marking the unification of the Emirates in 1971.

Falling on Tuesday and Wednesday, 2–3 December, this two-day celebration promises flag-waving parades, fireworks, concerts, and widespread festivities.

If you’re strategic, adding Monday and Thursday to your annual leave could transform the week into a five-day mini-vacation—perfect for a staycation or travel getaway to wrap up the year.

A few things to remember

Holiday shifts are possible: Except for Eid, the UAE government reserves the right to move holidays to the start or end of the week.

No makeup days: If a public holiday falls on a weekend, it typically won’t be compensated.

Emirate-specific exceptions: Local governments may declare additional holidays for events unique to each emirate or institution.

So while the year’s major Eid holidays may be behind us, 2025 still holds a few more opportunities to unwind. Whether you’re planning around spiritual observance, national pride, or simply in need of a break—mark those dates and plan ahead.


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