What are the next UAE public holidays after Eid Al Adha? Here are the big holidays of 2025
With Eid Al Adha bringing a welcome four-day weekend in early June, many across the UAE are already asking the next logical question: when's the next break?
Whether you're hoping to travel, spend time with family, or simply hit pause, there's still more to look forward to this year.
The UAE Cabinet has confirmed 12 official public holidays for 2025, and with Eid behind us, three are still to come.
Here's a quick look at what's next and how to make the most of each one.
Quick recap: Eid Al Adha in early June
According to the moon-sighting committee,
Arafat Day
will fall on Thursday, 5 June, with Eid Al Adha beginning on Friday, 6 June. With regular weekends factored in, most UAE residents will enjoy a four-day break through Sunday, 8 June.
This extended weekend marks one of the longest public holidays of the year, combining religious observance with a chance to unwind.
1. Islamic New Year – Thursday, 26 June
Just a few weeks later, the UAE will mark the first day of Muharram, signalling the start of the Islamic New Year.
While this is a quieter, more reflective occasion—often observed with prayer and family time—it also offers a smart opportunity for a long weekend. Since it falls on a Thursday, those who take Friday off as annual leave can enjoy another four-day break.
2. Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) Birthday – Friday, 5 September
Known as
Mawlid Al-Nabi
, this holiday commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and lands on Friday, 5 September this year.
It's traditionally observed through religious lectures, community events, and gatherings. The timing—on a Friday—naturally sets up a three-day weekend, providing a break just as the post-summer routine begins to settle in.
3. UAE National Day – Tuesday and Wednesday, 2–3 December
The final—and perhaps most festive—public holiday of the year is
UAE National Day,
marking the unification of the Emirates in 1971.
Falling on Tuesday and Wednesday, 2–3 December, this two-day celebration promises flag-waving parades, fireworks, concerts, and widespread festivities.
If you're strategic, adding Monday and Thursday to your annual leave could transform the week into a five-day mini-vacation—perfect for a staycation or travel getaway to wrap up the year.
A few things to remember
Holiday shifts are possible: Except for Eid, the UAE government reserves the right to move holidays to the start or end of the week.
No makeup days: If a public holiday falls on a weekend, it typically won't be compensated.
Emirate-specific exceptions: Local governments may declare additional holidays for events unique to each emirate or institution.
So while the year's major Eid holidays may be behind us, 2025 still holds a few more opportunities to unwind. Whether you're planning around spiritual observance, national pride, or simply in need of a break—mark those dates and plan ahead.
One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
12 hours ago
- Time of India
Rajasthan: Sariska tigress welcomes 4 cubs, tiger count hits 49 — time to book that safari
In a significant development for wildlife conservation, a six-year-old tigress, designated ST-19, has given birth to four cubs in the Bareli-Bari area of the buffer zone of Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar, Rajasthan. This marks her third litter, increasing her total offspring to nine. With the arrival of these new cubs, the tiger population in Sariska Tiger Reserve has risen to 49, signaling a significant achievement in the conservation efforts within the reserve. This event is especially significant because it is the first time that four cubs are born at the same time in the buffer zone, which is already home to seven resident tigers. In the past, tigresses ST-12 and ST-22 also gave birth to four cubs each in the same year, suggesting that the tiger population in the reserve is growing in a favourable manner. Rajasthan's Forest Minister, Sanjay Sharma, shared the news on social media, stating, "Good news from Sariska Tiger Reserve! Tigress ST-19 has been sighted with four healthy cubs for the first time. She is the third tigress in Sariska to give birth to four cubs in a span of one year. A promising sign for tiger conservation efforts in the region." Read more: The timeless mystery of Stonehenge, and the secrets buried in stone Chief Conservator of Forests, Sangram Singh, confirmed that camera traps captured images of ST-19 and her cubs, all of whom appear healthy. He urged the public to avoid entering the tigress's territory to prevent any disturbance to the wildlife. The Sariska Tiger Reserve has a storied history in tiger conservation. After a period of zero tiger sightings in the early 2000s, the reserve became the site of India's first successful tiger relocation program. Over the past two decades, concerted efforts by the state forest department have led to a steady increase in the tiger population. Dinesh Durani Verma, founder of the Sariska Tiger Foundation, remarked, "From zero to a population about to touch 50 is a success story. The conservation efforts of the state forest department over two decades made it possible." With the rise in tiger numbers, forest officials anticipate an increase in eco-tourism, as sightings in the reserve have become more frequent. However, they emphasize the importance of responsible tourism to ensure the continued well-being of the wildlife. Read more: France introduces mandatory online visa appointment system: What travellers need to know The birth of these four cubs not only adds to the reserve's tiger count but also serves as a reminder to the success of sustained conservation efforts in Sariska. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
12 hours ago
- Business Standard
Bakrid 2025 watchlist: Top OTT shows, films to stream or catch in theatres
The monsoon is arriving, and so is a wave of fresh entertainment! As Eid-ul-Adha 2025 (Bakrid) brings families together, streaming platforms and cinema halls are gearing up for a jam-packed weekend of high-octane releases. Whether you're looking to unwind with heartwarming stories or dive into edge-of-your-seat thrillers, this Bakrid weekend promises non-stop entertainment. In addition to the films, a variety of new web series will be available on the OTT platform this weekend on platforms like SonyLIV, JioHotstar, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video. To enjoy this Bakrid 2025 and the long weekend, let us take a look at some of the best films and OTT releases in India. Bakrid 2025: Top 5 OTT releases to stream this weekend 1. Tourist Family - JioHotstar (June 2) A Sri Lankan family looking for a new beginning in India is the focus of the heartfelt comedy, which was directed by Abishan Jeevinth. Through their generosity, they turn a disconnected neighbourhood into a vibrant community. Simran and M Sasikumar play the lead roles in this Tamil film. 2. Criminal Code Season 2 - Netflix (June 4) The Brazilian action series, inspired by real crimes, centres on Isaac and his Phantom Gang, who, after assisting the Ambassador in escaping from jail, become the primary targets of the Federal Police. However, the police, under Suellen's leadership, find it difficult to apprehend the Phantom Gang because of their misdeeds, which have made them legendary. 3. Stolen - Amazon Prime Video (June 4) This week, the Abhishek Banerjee film, Stolen, will make its Amazon Prime Video debut, 2 years after its Venice Film Festival debut. Two brothers watch a kid being snatched from a poor mother at a rural Indian railway station in this suspenseful criminal thriller. Abhishek Banerjee and Mia Maelzer will play the lead characters in the film under the direction of Karan Tejpal. 4. Ginny & Georgia Season 3 - Netflix (June 5) The Miller family's existence will be completely upended by the new episodes, which will continue to explore the repercussions of Georgia's imprisonment after season 2 ended on a cliffhanger. Now it is Georgia and Ginny against the world. 5. Chhal Kapat - The Deception - ZEE5 (June 6) In the course of investigating the death of a well-known influencer at her friend's wedding, a talented police investigator uncovers dark secrets and betrayals. The next series' ensemble cast includes, among others, Ragini Dwivedi, Kamya Ahlawat, and Shriya Pilgaokar. Bakrid 2025 special: Top 5 films to watch in theatres this weekend 1. Housefull 5- June 6, 2025 The hit comedy franchise, directed by Tarun Mansukhani, features a ridiculously massive cast including Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, John Abraham, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sanjay Dutt, Bobby Deol, Kriti Sanon, Pooja Hegde, Sonakshi Sinha, among others. Expect outrageous jokes, misidentifications, and classic slapstick chaos. Mark your calendars if you want to experience a crazy comedy ride with well-known characters and lots of laughter. 2. Ballerina- June 6, 2025 Ballerina, a spin-off from the John Wick universe, features Ana de Armas as a proficient assassin who wants an act of exact revenge for the death of her family. The movie, which takes place between John Wick: Chapter 3 and Chapter 4, includes cameos by the late Lance Reddick, Ian McShane, and Keanu Reeves. Len Wiseman, the film's director, promises thrilling action scenes and a more in-depth exploration of the franchise's history. 3. The Life of Chuck- June 6, 2025 Mike Flanagan is the director of 'The Life of Chuck', a science-fiction drama based on Stephen King's novella. Tom Hiddleston plays Chuck in the movie, which explores significant events in his life by telling his story in reverse. It won the People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. 4. Materialists- June 13, 2025 Celine Song is the director of the romantic comedy, Materialists, which stars Pedro Pascal, Chris Evans, and Dakota Johnson. Modern relationships and the difficulties of love in a materialistic society are the subject of the movie. It is expected to be a delightful addition to the genre because of its all-star cast. 5. Sitaare Zameen Par- June 20, 2025 R.S. Prasanna's heartwarming story, 'Sitaare Zameen Par', marks Aamir Khan's comeback. With an emotional impact and the goal of increasing awareness, the film centres on the life of a child with 'Down syndrome' and the difficulties he and his family encounter. This emotional movie, which also stars Genelia Deshmukh and Darsheel Safary, explores themes of acceptance, empathy, and resiliency.
Time of India
15 hours ago
- Time of India
Malaika Arora just made red the new black in this backless gown
(Image Credits: Instagram) Always serving the main character energy with her fashionable presence, when Malaika Arora steps out, you know it will be a star-gazing moment. Exuding sultrous grace on her Goa getaway, Bollywood's fitness maven flaunted a stunning red slip gown that made everyone stop and stare. Sipping cocktails and serving glam, she wore a bright red satin maxi gown from the brand Zumel and Co, worth Rs 14,000. Although this satin piece is not something out of the box, the flowy tailoring makes it look like it's peeking out from a romantic dress catalogue. (Image Credits: Instagram) Her iconic ensemble featured a deep V-neckline with spaghetti straps that cascaded into a flowy, sheer skirt reaching to her ankles. Wrapping around her body most sensually, it also had a cinched satin detailing around the bodice and made a strong case for vacation fashion. Malaika Arora Steps Out In Style Post-Dinner However, the main highlight was the backless criss-cross strap detailing, which created an alluring yet sensual effect and enchanted all in a minute. Skipping any heavy accessory show, she simply showed off her stack of dainty rings and kept a blood-red manicure that complemented perfectly her resort fit. (Image Credits: Instagram) Ditching a glam makeup show, she simply tied her hair into a messy bun and carried a laid-back, voguish avatar, abiding by the notes of modesty and elegance. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
