Earlier this month, UAE residents observed a one-day holiday for the Islamic New Year on Sunday, July 7. However, keywords like ‘UAE public holidays 2024’ and ‘next holiday in UAE’ are already trending on Google. Thankfully, the next holiday is just two months away.
Public holidays in the UAE so far this year
Until now, UAE residents have enjoyed holidays for New Year’s Day on January 1, Eid Al Fitr (three-day holiday from April 8 for the private sector), Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha (four-day holiday from June 15), and a one-day holiday on July 7 for the Islamic New Year.
When is the next holiday in UAE?
According to the UAE Cabinet’s list of official holidays for 2024, the next public holiday in the UAE will be for the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on Rabi Al Awwal 12.
According to the Dubai government’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), it will likely be on Sunday, September 15, subject to moon sighting.
Then, residents will observe a two-day break for the UAE’s 53rd National Day, on December 2 and 3 (Monday and Tuesday). When clubbed with the weekend, UAE residents will be able to enjoy a four-day break.
The Prophet’s birthday
The birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), born in 570 AD, is observed in the third month of the Islamic calendar. The day is observed as an official holiday in several countries. It is believed by the majority that the Prophet (PBUH) was both on the 12th of the Islamic month. However, some sections of Muslims also believe that he was born on the 17th.
UAE National Day
The UAE’s National Day falls on December 2. This is the day when the rulers of the emirates signed a unification agreement to create the United Arab Emirates, thus transforming the separate states into one thriving nation. ‘Spirit of the Union’ is the official theme of the UAE’s National Day celebrations.
UAE holidays in 2025
The IACAD has also listed some of the official holidays for 2025.
According to its calendar, January 1, Wednesday, will be a holiday for the New Year of the Gregorian calendar. There will likely be a four-day holiday for Eid Al Fitr in March-April, and a four-day holiday for Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha in June. There will also be a one-day break for the Islamic New Year a few days after Eid Al Adha.
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