UAE's Predicted Dates for Hijri New Year, Ramadan, and Eid
With the Eid Al Adha break now wrapped up, UAE residents can start looking forward to the next official public holiday: the Islamic New Year, expected to fall on Thursday, June 26, 2025.
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According to astronomical calculations, this date is likely to mark 1 Muharram 1447 AH, the beginning of the new Islamic lunar year. While it's still pending official confirmation from the UAE's moon-sighting committee, the projection gives hope for a one-day midweek break and maybe even a long weekend, depending on government announcements.
What Is the Islamic New Year?
Also known as Hijri New Year, this day commemorates the Prophet Muhammad's migration (Hijrah) from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. It marks the start of the Islamic calendar. While it's not celebrated with the same scale as Eid Al Fitr or Eid Al Adha, it's still a meaningful date and is observed as a public holiday in the UAE.
What's the Next Religious Holiday After That?
Following the Islamic New Year, the next significant occasion is Mawlid Al Nabawi, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, which is expected to be observed on Thursday, September 4, 2025. As always, the exact date will depend on the official moon sighting.
Islamic Calendar Highlights for 2026
Looking further ahead, the Islamic calendar in 2026 will bring several key religious dates during the cooler months, offering more opportunities for long weekends and spiritual observances:
Ramadan 2026 is likely to begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. This sacred month of fasting and reflection shifts earlier every year.
Eid Al Fitr 2026, which marks the end of Ramadan, is expected to fall on Friday, March 20, 2026, a potential three-day weekend for many.
Eid Al Adha 2026, the most significant of the Islamic holidays, is forecasted to be on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, based on an expected moon sighting on May 17.
A Quick Note on Accuracy
All these dates are based on astronomical forecasts and may shift depending on the actual sighting of the moon. The UAE government typically confirms public holidays closer to the date, so keep an eye on official announcements.
Until then, mark your calendars and get ready for more well-timed breaks in the coming year!
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