After the recent Islamic New Year break, residents across the UAE are already eyeing the next long weekend. According to the official UAE calendar, the upcoming public holidays will fall in September and December, giving both Emiratis and expats more time to unwind, travel or reconnect with loved ones.
With many professionals and families planning their schedules in advance, these upcoming breaks are highly anticipated—especially as they land just right for long weekends.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday likely to bring a 3-day weekend
The next confirmed holiday on the UAE calendar is Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, also known as Mawlid Al-Nabi. It is expected to fall on Friday, 5 September 2025, subject to moon sighting.
As the date coincides with a Friday, it effectively creates a long weekend for most residents. While official confirmation is usually released closer to the date, previous years’ patterns make this prediction highly reliable.
Those planning short trips or family gatherings might want to block out the weekend early. Whether it’s a quick staycation in Ras Al Khaimah or a relaxing break at home, the timing couldn’t be better.
UAE National Day break to follow in December
Looking ahead to the end of the year, UAE National Day—celebrated every 2 December—is also marked as a public holiday. This year, it falls on a Tuesday and Wednesday (2 and 3 December), ensuring a two-day break midweek.
National Day is one of the most celebrated occasions in the country, with festive events, parades, light shows and cultural activities taking place across the Emirates. Many offices and schools close for these two days, and some residents may even pair it with Monday’s leave to enjoy a four-day break.
Smart planning can maximise your time off
With both September and December breaks offering potential for extended weekends, now is a good time for residents to start planning ahead.
Those looking to travel during the Prophet’s Birthday weekend in September might consider a local escape—destinations like Hatta, Fujairah or Abu Dhabi offer scenic getaways without the need for long travel. Meanwhile, UAE National Day is often a time for cultural experiences, making it ideal for those staying within the country to enjoy heritage villages, fireworks, and traditional performances.
Booking early is also recommended, especially for hotel stays and flights, as demand typically spikes around official holidays.
Public holiday outlook for the rest of 2025
Here’s a quick summary of the key public holidays still to come in the UAE this year:
Upcoming UAE Holidays 2025
| Date | Occasion | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 5 September 2025 | Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday | Expected to fall on a Friday |
| 2–3 December 2025 | UAE National Day | Fixed dates, Tuesday–Wednesday break |
As always, residents are encouraged to keep an eye out for formal announcements from UAE authorities closer to the actual dates, especially for holidays based on the Islamic calendar.
Mark the dates early and plan smart
With two important public holidays still on the horizon, the rest of 2025 holds much to look forward to for those living and working in the UAE. Whether you’re after rest or adventure, these holidays are the perfect year-end recharge.
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For more updates on UAE holidays, events, and things to do in Dubai, make sure to follow Social Kandura.
