As we transition from the recent four-day break for Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha, many might be asking, “When’s the next long weekend in the UAE?” With the public holiday calendar still having several entries left for this year, it’s the perfect time to plan ahead.
The holiday festivities began with Arafat Day on Thursday, June 5, followed by the Eid Al Adha celebrations from Friday, June 6 through Sunday, June 8. This seamless alignment with the weekend offered an enjoyable extended break for everyone. These dates were part of the official 2025 public holiday schedule released by the government earlier this year.
Upcoming Public Holidays
What lies ahead? There are still three public holidays to mark on your calendar before we bid farewell to 2025. The next significant date is the Islamic New Year, anticipated to occur on Thursday, June 26. This one-day holiday signifies the beginning of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar and is a moment of reflection for many.
Later this year, we can look forward to celebrating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), which is expected on Friday, September 5. The exact date will be confirmed closer to the event, as it relies on moon sightings. This day is typically filled with community and religious observances, making it a meaningful occasion for many in the UAE.
Year-End Celebrations
To round off the year, we’ll celebrate UAE National Day on Tuesday and Wednesday, December 2-3. This two-day holiday is always a vibrant time marked by fireworks, concerts, and a host of patriotic festivities throughout the Emirates. With it falling mid-week, numerous residents may opt to take a few additional days off to elongate this festive break.
The government does occasionally adjust holidays to create longer weekends, although this flexibility doesn’t apply to Eid celebrations. If a public holiday coincides with a weekend, there is no provision for an additional day to compensate. Local governments may also announce extra holidays for special events within their respective emirates.
In short, there are three more opportunities to unwind and enjoy some time off before welcoming 2026. Whether you’re contemplating a quick escape, a leisurely staycation, or simply some well-deserved downtime, these forthcoming holidays promise to be a source of joy and relaxation in the latter part of the year.