September might bring a welcome pause in routine for many in the UAE, with Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) expected to fall during the first weekend of the month. The UAE observes the occasion each year as a confirmed public holiday rooted in the Islamic Hijri calendar.
While the official date depends on moon sightings, preliminary predictions suggest the holiday will land on Friday, 5 September 2025. If so, residents could benefit from a long weekend stretching through Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Based on the Islamic calendar, but not fixed
Muslims mark Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) on the 12th day of Rabi Al Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Because moon phases determine the calendar, the exact Gregorian date changes each year.
This year, the Islamic month of Safar is projected to end by the start of September, with Rabi Al Awwal beginning soon after. If the 12th day of the month is confirmed to be Friday, 5 September, the public holiday would naturally fall into place for a three-day break.
If officials declare the holiday on Thursday, 4 September, they will likely move it to Friday under the UAE’s policy to extend weekends.
UAE policy supports shifting holidays to weekends
The UAE has a clear and flexible approach when it comes to national holidays. Certain days, including Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH), are eligible to be rescheduled to the closest weekend. This benefits both public and private sector employees by offering a more consistent break.
Holidays like Commemoration Day and Islamic New Year have often been shifted to Fridays or Sundays, likely again in September 2025.
Time to plan your break?
With the potential for a three-day weekend in early September, now’s a good moment to think ahead. Residents in Dubai often use such holidays to make the most of the season—whether that means checking into a hotel nearby or booking a quick escape to nearby destinations.
As summer tapers off, temperatures begin to shift ever so slightly, making it an ideal window for early autumn staycations or short-haul travel. Here are some ideas residents might want to consider:
- City breaks within the UAE: Luxury hotels in Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Abu Dhabi often launch exclusive public holiday offers, including family packages, free upgrades, and wellness add-ons.
- Nature and culture getaways: Spots like Hatta, Al Ain, and Fujairah offer a refreshing change from city life, with mountain views and heritage sites all within driving distance.
- Quick trips under six hours: Countries like Oman, Jordan, Georgia, and Sri Lanka continue to be favourites thanks to short flights and relaxed visa options for UAE residents.
No matter the choice, having a flexible itinerary is key until the public holiday is officially confirmed by the UAE government closer to the date.
Employers and employees across the UAE typically await final confirmation from federal authorities regarding public holidays. That announcement is usually made just days in advance, after official moon sighting committees declare the start of Rabi Al Awwal.
Organisations in the public and private sectors are encouraged to stay alert for updates and prepare for a possible three-day closure. It’s also common for schools to adjust their academic calendars slightly during such breaks.
If the long weekend is confirmed, it would provide a timely reset before the final quarter of the year—often the busiest stretch for businesses in the UAE.
Quick recap
| Holiday | Expected Gregorian Date | Likely Weekend Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) | Friday, 5 September 2025 | Friday–Sunday long weekend |
- If declared on Friday, Residents enjoy an automatic three-day weekend.
- If declared on Thursday, the holiday will likely be moved to Friday for consistency.
- Official confirmation: To be announced in early September following moon sighting.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday in UAE 2025 may fall on a Friday, offering Dubai residents a long weekend to rest or travel.
So while the final word depends on moon sightings, it might be wise to keep your weekend flexible—and your bags half-packed.
Read More:
- Here’s How the UAE Is Celebrating Emirati Women’s Day 2025 – Social Kandura
- Celebrate Rakshabandhan 2025 in Dubai with These Incredible Indian Dining Deals – Social Kandura
For the latest updates on UAE holidays, staycation ideas, and local events, follow Social Kandura for everything happening across Dubai and the Emirates.
