The UAE government has officially declared Friday, June 27, 2025, as the public holiday for Islamic New Year. The announcement means residents across both the public and private sectors can enjoy a three-day weekend from Friday, June 27 to Sunday, June 29.
The decision, backed by MOHRE and the Federal Authority, aligns with this year’s updated public holiday rules.
This marks the first time that the UAE Cabinet has used its authority under the revised 2025 holiday law to shift the official day off and provide an extended weekend for the nation’s workforce.
Why the date changes every year
The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year, marks the start of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which follows the solar cycle, the Islamic calendar is based on moon sightings, which is why the holiday date shifts annually.
The beginning of Muharram is determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon, which will be monitored in the UAE on the evening of Wednesday, June 25. Depending on this sighting, Muharram is expected to begin either on Thursday, June 26 or Friday, June 27.
Despite this uncertainty, the government has pre-emptively declared Friday as the official day off, ensuring consistency and allowing residents and businesses to plan ahead.
The new law behind your long weekend
Under the updated UAE Public Holiday Law introduced in early 2025, the Cabinet can reschedule official holidays to either the beginning or end of the week to ensure extended breaks. This initiative aims to enhance work-life balance, promote domestic tourism, and create opportunities for residents to relax and spend time with family.
This is the first time such a move has been made since the law came into effect. By aligning the Islamic New Year 2025 UAE holiday with a Friday, the government has effectively granted the country a three-day weekend without relying on last-minute moon sighting results.
What the Islamic New Year means
The Islamic New Year, or Al Hijri, marks Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina — a significant turning point in Islamic history. It symbolises the beginning of the Hijri calendar, which Muslims around the world use to observe religious events and rituals.
Unlike other public holidays, the Islamic New Year is generally marked by spiritual reflection and prayer, rather than celebratory events. However, in the UAE, it is often accompanied by quiet family gatherings, religious observances, and special dining offers across hotels and restaurants.
Muharram and the day of Ashura
The first month of the Islamic calendar, Muharram, is considered one of the most sacred months in Islam. The 10th day, known as Ashura, holds particular significance for both Sunni and Shia Muslims.
For Sunnis, Ashura is associated with Prophet Moses’s escape from Pharaoh, while for Shia Muslims, it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala.
This day is observed with prayers, fasting, and religious processions, especially within Shia communities.
What to expect during the long weekend
With the Islamic New Year 2025 UAE holiday confirmed, residents can look forward to various offers and experiences across the UAE. From staycations in Ras Al Khaimah to shopping promotions in Dubai’s malls, the three-day weekend presents the perfect opportunity to unwind.
Hotels across the country are also expected to launch special rates for families and couples, while cultural sites such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Al Ain Oasis remain popular destinations for reflective outings.
More lunar-based holidays to come
The Hijri calendar determines several UAE public holidays, including Islamic New Year, Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr, and Eid Al Adha. Since moon sightings can vary by region, the exact dates for these holidays may differ slightly each year.
With the UAE’s move to create more structured long weekends, future holiday announcements are likely to follow a similar approach — offering residents more clarity and employers better planning capabilities.
The confirmation of the Islamic New Year 2025 holiday as a Friday is a strategic and welcome move that gives residents across the UAE a much-needed break. With the next three-day weekend on the horizon, many will be planning short trips, family time, or simply a chance to recharge before the summer intensifies.
Read More:
- Emirates Set to Resume Damascus Flights from 16 July After 13-Year Hiatus – Social Kandura
- Electric Ocean Festival returns to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – Social Kandura
Stay informed on all the latest UAE public holidays, events, and weekend happenings — follow Social Kandura for daily updates on everything you need to know across Dubai and the UAE.
