UAE Public Holidays 2025-2026: Plan Your Getaways!

Hey everyone! Planning your next big adventure or just want to know when you can finally relax and recharge? You've come to the right place, guys! We're diving deep into the UAE public holidays for 2025 and 2026. Knowing these dates is super handy, whether you're an expat looking to make the most of your time off, a business owner scheduling important meetings, or just someone who loves a good long weekend. Let's get you clued in so you can start dreaming about those potential trips and family gatherings. Getting ahead of the game with holiday planning can save you a ton of hassle and help you snag those early bird deals for flights and hotels. Plus, it’s always fun to have something to look forward to, right? So, buckle up as we break down the upcoming holidays, giving you the inside scoop on when you can expect those precious days off.

Your Ultimate Guide to UAE Public Holidays in 2025

Alright folks, let's kick things off with UAE public holidays 2025. This year is packed with opportunities for some well-deserved breaks. Mark your calendars, because understanding these dates is key to maximizing your downtime. We'll cover the major religious and national holidays that are officially recognized, giving you a clear picture of your long weekends and potential extended breaks. It’s not just about knowing the dates; it’s about using them wisely. Think about planning short trips to nearby destinations, spending quality time with family and friends, or finally tackling that hobby you’ve been putting off. The UAE is known for its vibrant culture and incredible attractions, and having these holidays means you have more chances to explore them. Whether it's a quick getaway to Oman, a beach break in the Maldives, or simply enjoying the local festivities within the Emirates, having these dates locked down is your first step. Remember, some of these dates are based on the lunar calendar, so they can shift slightly each year. We'll provide the most anticipated dates, but it's always a good idea to double-check closer to the time with official announcements. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, ensuring you don't miss out on any opportunities for rest and recreation. So, let's get into the nitty-gritty of what 2025 has in store for us holiday-wise!

New Year's Day (Jan 1st)

We're starting the year off with a bang, guys! New Year's Day, celebrated on January 1st, is a public holiday across the UAE. This one's pretty straightforward – a guaranteed day off to recover from any New Year's Eve celebrations and perhaps enjoy a leisurely start to the year. It’s the perfect opportunity to set your intentions for the year ahead, catch up with loved ones, or just enjoy a quiet day at home. Many people use this day to reflect on the past year and look forward to the opportunities the new one brings. For families, it's a great chance to bond and create new memories. Businesses often see this as a time to restart operations with renewed energy. It's also a popular time for short trips, as the weather in the UAE is usually pleasant in early January. Whether you're planning a staycation or a quick international jaunt, booking in advance is always a smart move. This public holiday sets the tone for the year, reminding us to take time for ourselves and appreciate the moments of pause. It’s a universal celebration, and the UAE embraces it fully, giving everyone a chance to start the year refreshed and ready for whatever comes next. So, cheers to a happy and restful New Year's Day!

Eid al-Fitr (Expected around late March/early April)

Following the holy month of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr is a joyous occasion and a significant public holiday in the UAE. The exact date depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, but it's generally expected to fall around late March or early April 2025. This holiday typically grants a few days off, allowing for extended celebrations. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of fasting and is a time of immense joy, gratitude, and community. Families come together, exchange gifts, and share delicious meals. It’s a deeply spiritual and cultural celebration, and the public holiday ensures that everyone can participate in the festivities. For those planning travel, keep in mind that this is a very popular period for both domestic and international travel. Airports and travel routes can be busy, so planning well in advance is crucial. Many residents use these days to visit family in other Emirates or even travel abroad to see relatives. The atmosphere during Eid is truly special, filled with warmth and generosity. It’s a time to reflect on the spiritual journey of Ramadan and embrace the blessings of the new month. The UAE government's recognition of this holiday underscores the importance of religious and cultural observance for its diverse population. It’s a time for reflection, celebration, and connecting with what truly matters.

Eid al-Adha (Expected around mid-June)

Another major Islamic holiday, Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is observed as a public holiday in the UAE. Similar to Eid al-Fitr, its timing is determined by the lunar calendar. For 2025, it's anticipated to be around mid-June. This holiday commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son. It's a time of prayer, sacrifice, and charity, and typically grants a few days off for everyone to observe. It's a period when many families plan gatherings and travel, making it another busy time for tourism and transportation. If you're thinking of traveling, booking your flights and accommodation early is a must. Many people use this break to visit family, go on religious pilgrimages, or simply enjoy a longer break with loved ones. The spirit of giving and community is strong during Eid al-Adha. It’s a profound holiday that emphasizes faith, obedience, and compassion. The public holiday allows residents to fully immerse themselves in the traditions and significance of this important occasion. It’s a time that brings people closer, fostering a sense of unity and shared values across the nation. So, get ready for another opportunity to celebrate and connect!

Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) (Expected around early July)

The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the new Islamic calendar year. In 2025, it's expected to be observed around early July. This is typically a one-day public holiday. While it might not offer an extended break, it’s still an important date in the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide. It’s a time for reflection on the past year and a hopeful outlook for the year ahead. For many, it’s a quiet day of observance and personal reflection. While it may not be as widely celebrated with large public gatherings as the Eid festivals, it holds significant religious importance. Understanding this holiday adds another layer to the cultural fabric of the UAE. It’s a reminder of the rich history and traditions that shape the community. For those who observe it, it’s a day to connect with their faith and spiritual journey. Consider it another opportunity for a peaceful day, perhaps to catch up on reading or personal projects. It’s these quiet moments of observance that also contribute to the diverse rhythm of life in the UAE.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday (Mawlid) (Expected around mid-September)

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday, known as Mawlid, is another significant religious holiday celebrated as a public holiday in the UAE. The date is determined by the lunar calendar, and for 2025, it's anticipated to fall around mid-September. This holiday commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. It's a day of prayer, reflection, and celebrating his life and teachings. While it's a public holiday, it's often observed with religious gatherings and sermons rather than large-scale public festivities. It’s a day that encourages Muslims to reflect on the Prophet's message of peace, compassion, and guidance. For many, it's a day to focus on spiritual matters and engage in acts of charity. It’s a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Prophet and his impact on the world. Having this day off allows individuals to deepen their understanding and connection to their faith. It’s a cornerstone of Islamic culture and a testament to the religious values upheld in the UAE. Use this day to learn more, reflect, or simply enjoy a day of peace and contemplation.

National Day (December 2nd and 3rd)

We wrap up the year with one of the most significant celebrations: UAE National Day. Celebrated on December 2nd and 3rd, this holiday commemorates the formation of the UAE in 1971. It's a two-day public holiday filled with national pride, fireworks, parades, and cultural events across the Emirates. This is the time to witness the patriotic spirit of the nation. You'll see decorations everywhere, events happening in malls and public spaces, and a general atmosphere of celebration. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the UAE's vibrant culture and history firsthand. Many people use these days to spend time with family and friends, attend national day events, or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere. It’s a time to reflect on the nation's progress and future aspirations. For tourists, it’s an incredible time to visit and experience the UAE’s celebratory mood. So, get ready to feel the national pride and enjoy the festivities as we celebrate the UAE's remarkable journey. It's a highlight of the year, folks!

Navigating UAE Public Holidays in 2026

Alright guys, let's shift our focus to UAE public holidays 2026. Planning ahead is always the name of the game, and knowing these dates will help you structure your year, whether for personal trips, family commitments, or business planning. The year 2026 promises a similar pattern of religious and national holidays, offering those much-needed breaks throughout the year. Understanding these dates is crucial for maximizing your time off, allowing you to plan vacations, family gatherings, or simply enjoy extended weekends. The UAE's dynamic calendar ensures a mix of spiritual observances and national celebrations, each offering a unique opportunity to pause and reflect. For frequent travelers, these dates are golden tickets to explore new destinations or revisit favorite spots. Remember, like in 2025, some dates are tied to lunar sightings, so they might see slight adjustments. We’ll give you the most likely dates, but always keep an eye on official announcements as they get closer. This section is all about equipping you with the foresight to make the most of your year. Let's dive into what 2026 has in store for us holiday-wise, helping you sketch out those future plans and make sure you don't miss a beat!

New Year's Day (Jan 1st)

Kicking off 2026, New Year's Day on January 1st is, as expected, a public holiday. It's the universal symbol of a fresh start, and the UAE fully embraces it. This day provides a perfect opportunity to shake off the old year’s dust, relax, and set positive intentions for the twelve months ahead. Whether you're recovering from late-night festivities or simply enjoying a quiet day, it’s a chance to recharge. Many use this day for personal reflection, goal setting, or spending quality time with family. It’s also a popular time for short breaks, especially given the usually pleasant winter weather in the UAE. If you’re thinking of a quick trip, securing your bookings early is always a wise strategy. This holiday is more than just a day off; it's a collective moment to transition into a new cycle, filled with hope and renewed energy. So, let's welcome 2026 with open arms and a well-rested spirit!

Eid al-Fitr (Expected around mid-March)

Anticipated to occur around mid-March 2026, Eid al-Fitr will mark the end of Ramadan and bring with it a joyous public holiday. The exact date hinges on the sighting of the new crescent moon, as is tradition. This holiday is a significant celebration of breaking the fast, characterized by feasting, family gatherings, and charitable acts. Typically, it spans a few days, offering a substantial break. It’s a time of immense happiness and spiritual fulfillment. Travel during this period is extremely popular, both domestically and internationally. If you're considering a trip, booking flights and accommodations well in advance is essential to avoid disappointment and secure better rates. Many residents take this opportunity to visit relatives or explore new destinations. The festive spirit and communal warmth of Eid al-Fitr make it a truly special time in the UAE. It’s a period that beautifully blends religious devotion with vibrant cultural celebrations, ensuring everyone can partake in the joy.

Eid al-Adha (Expected around late February/early March)

Commemorating Prophet Ibrahim's sacrifice, Eid al-Adha is another vital public holiday in the UAE. For 2026, it's projected to fall around late February or early March, though the precise date depends on the lunar calendar. This holiday is a time for prayer, reflection, and often involves the ritual of sacrifice. It typically grants a few days off, making it a popular period for travel and family reunions. Similar to Eid al-Fitr, early bookings for travel are highly recommended due to the increased demand. Many people use this long weekend to visit loved ones, embark on spiritual journeys, or simply enjoy a extended period of rest. The ethos of generosity and community spirit is paramount during this time. It's a profound occasion that reinforces values of faith, obedience, and empathy. The public holiday ensures that the community has the space to observe and celebrate this significant event with due reverence and joy.

Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) (Expected around late July)

The Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) marks the commencement of the new Islamic calendar. In 2026, it is expected to be observed around late July. This is generally a one-day public holiday. While it might not provide an extensive break, it holds considerable religious significance for Muslims. It serves as a moment for introspection and looking forward to the year ahead. For many, it's a day of quiet contemplation and spiritual observance. Unlike the more elaborate Eid celebrations, this holiday is often marked by personal reflection and religious devotion. Understanding and acknowledging this holiday highlights the diverse cultural and religious landscape of the UAE. It’s a day to connect with one's faith and heritage. Consider it a peaceful pause in the year, perfect for personal reflection or engaging in quiet activities.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday (Mawlid) (Expected around mid-March)

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday, or Mawlid, is observed as a public holiday in the UAE. Based on the lunar calendar, it's anticipated to occur around mid-March 2026. This day honors the birth of the Prophet Muhammad and is a time for prayer, reflection, and learning about his teachings. It’s a significant religious occasion, often marked by mosque gatherings and spiritual discussions. The public holiday allows individuals to dedicate time to religious studies and contemplation. It's a chance to internalize the Prophet's message of peace, compassion, and wisdom. The UAE's recognition of Mawlid reflects its commitment to religious freedom and cultural preservation. Use this day to deepen your spiritual connection and reflect on the Prophet's enduring legacy. It’s a day that resonates with the core values of Islam and its followers.

Commemoration Day (December 1st)

Commemoration Day (formerly known as Martyrs' Day) is observed on December 1st in the UAE. This is a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring the Emirati martyrs and heroes who have sacrificed their lives in service to their nation and in the line of duty. It's a day of national remembrance, marked by official ceremonies and public tributes. While it’s a day of reflection and respect, it is often combined with National Day celebrations, creating a period of patriotic observance. It’s important to understand the significance of this day, as it pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of individuals who represent the nation's values. Take this day to reflect on their courage and the peace and security they helped to secure for the country. It’s a day to foster a sense of national unity and gratitude for those who have served.

UAE National Day (December 2nd and 3rd)

Concluding the year, the UAE National Day celebrations on December 2nd and 3rd are a massive event. This two-day public holiday marks the founding of the UAE. Expect spectacular fireworks, parades, cultural displays, and a nationwide outpouring of national pride. It’s a vibrant celebration of the nation's history, achievements, and future aspirations. Malls, public spaces, and landmarks across the country come alive with decorations and festivities. It’s an excellent time for both residents and tourists to experience the unique spirit and energy of the Emirates. Whether you join the public celebrations, spend time with family, or enjoy the patriotic atmosphere, these days are a highlight of the year. It's a powerful reminder of the nation's unity and progress. So, get ready to celebrate the UAE's journey and its bright future!

Disclaimer: Please note that the exact dates for Islamic holidays are subject to the sighting of the moon and may vary slightly. It's always recommended to check official sources for the most accurate dates closer to the time.