Life
As we settle into 2025, residents across the UAE are already looking ahead to plan their vacations and downtime around the year’s public holidays.
The official calendar has been released, confirming at least 12 days off for both public and private sector employees. These breaks present perfect opportunities for staycations, international travel, or simply enjoying quality time with loved ones.
The most significant break from now is the one that is yet to come in June with the combination of Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha, potentially offering another four consecutive days off from June 5-8.
Eid Al Adha 2025: UAE prepares for moon sighting, here’s all you need to know
Mid-year brings the Islamic New Year on June 26, while September 5 marks the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday. The year concludes with the UAE’s National Day celebrations on December 2-3, always a highlight on the Emirates’ social calendar with spectacular fireworks and events across all seven emirates.
For savvy planners, these holidays present excellent opportunities to maximize time off. By strategically combining just 14 days of annual leave with public holidays and weekends, residents can create extended breaks totaling 42 days off throughout the year. This smart scheduling approach allows for multiple international trips or longer stays abroad without exhausting annual leave allowances.
Turn your 4 day Eid holiday into a 16 day vacation this year
It’s important to note that while these dates are confirmed, some Islamic holidays may be adjusted based on moon sightings as the dates approach. The UAE government has implemented new regulations under Cabinet Resolution No.27 of 2024 to ensure residents don’t miss out when holidays fall on weekends, with provisions to move most observances to weekdays – though Eid celebrations remain exceptions to this rule.
With this comprehensive holiday schedule, 2025 promises numerous opportunities for rest, travel, and celebration. Whether you’re planning city breaks, beach getaways, or cultural experiences, these public holidays provide the perfect framework to build your annual travel plans around.
Images: Instagram Feature Image: @fatmaaltaher_
