Holidays in the UAE 2024/2025: when and how to celebrate?

The United Arab Emirates is a country where modernity and
ancient customs blend seamlessly.

Holidays in the UAE are significant for locals, expatriates,
and tourists alike. Knowing the holiday dates and their
observances will help you plan your trips and daily activities
effectively.

Overview of National Holidays in the UAE for 2024/2025

National holidays in the UAE are observed nationwide and are
accompanied by various official events. The major holidays for
2024 and 2025 are as follows:

• New Year (January 1) — the start of the year is celebrated
  with traditional fireworks and public festivities.
• Laylat al-Miraj (early April) — the Night Journey and
  Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad, marked by prayers and
  night vigils.
• Eid al-Fitr (April/May, depending on the lunar calendar) —
  the end of Ramadan, celebrated with festive gatherings and
  generous feasts.
• Day of Arafat (June) — a significant day of the Hajj
  pilgrimage, marked by prayers and fasting.
• Eid al-Adha (June/July, depending on the lunar calendar) —
  the Festival of Sacrifice, symbolizing devotion to faith.
• Islamic New Year (July) — the beginning of the Islamic lunar
  year.
• Mawlid al-Nabi (October) — the birth of the Prophet
  Muhammad.
• Martyrs’ Day (November 30) — a day to honor those who have
  sacrificed their lives for the nation.
• UAE National Day (December 2) — the country’s main national
  holiday, celebrated with parades, fireworks, and cultural
  events.

Each of these holidays has its significance and impact on life
in the UAE. The New Year marks the start of a new phase,
celebrated with great enthusiasm in cities like Dubai, Abu
Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah. Laylat al-Miraj is a spiritual
occasion emphasizing faith and devotion to Islamic traditions.
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a time
of generosity and giving.
The Day of Arafat and Eid
al-Adha (also known as Kurban Bayram) are closely related to
the Hajj pilgrimage, highlighting the importance of sacrifice
and dedication.
Islamic New Year and Mawlid al-Nabi
remind us of the importance of traditions and the history of
Islam, reinforcing the cultural identity of the UAE. Martyrs’
Day is a special occasion to honor national heroes who have
given their lives for their country.
UAE National Day symbolizes unity and prosperity, celebrated
with large-scale events across the country. During national
holidays in the UAE, public holidays are observed, allowing
residents and visitors to fully enjoy the festivities.

Religious Holidays in the UAE

Religious holidays in the UAE are deeply rooted in Islamic
traditions and are an integral part of the country’s life.

• Ramadan — the holy month of fasting, which starts at dawn
  and ends at sunset. During this time, Muslims refrain from
  eating and drinking during daylight hours, focusing more on
  prayer and charity.
• Eid al-Fitr — the festival marking the end of Ramadan, when
  fasting ends, and it is a time for joy and generosity. The
  holiday is celebrated with communal prayers, family
  gatherings, and.webpt-giving.
• Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayram) — the Festival of Sacrifice,
  commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to
  sacrifice his son in devotion to Allah. This day involves
  sacrificing an animal and distributing its meat to the
  needy.

Since the Islamic calendar is lunar, the dates for religious
holidays shift each year. Expected dates for 2024/2025 are:

• Ramadan begins on February 28, 2025.
• Eid al-Fitr: March 29, 2025.
• Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayram): June 6, 2025.

During religious holidays, UAE residents focus more on family,
prayer, and charity. Foreigners can also participate in the
celebrations, provided they respect local customs and culture.

National and Cultural Holidays in the UAE

The UAE is home to many expatriates who celebrate their
cultural holidays, which have become part of local life.

• Christmas (December 25) — celebrated widely by the Christian
  community with Christmas markets and decorations.
• Diwali (October/November) — the Indian festival of lights,
  marked by fireworks and festive dinners.
• Chinese New Year (January/February) — celebrated with
  parades and dragon shows, attracting many participants.
• Oktoberfest (September/October) — a German festival with
  themed parties and traditional cuisine.

In addition to religious holidays, the UAE has several
national events:

• UAE National Day (December 2) — the main national holiday,
  celebrating the unification of the emirates in 1971, with
  parades, fireworks, and cultural activities.
• Dubai Shopping Festival (January/February) — one of the
  world’s largest shopping events.
• Camel Festival in Al Dhafra (February) — a unique event
  showcasing the importance of camels in UAE culture,
  featuring parades, races, and exhibitions.