Public Holidays in Dubai: When to Plan Your Vacations

Whether you're a resident, expat, or tourist, understanding public holidays in Dubai can help you make the most of your time in the UAE. From religious observances to national celebrations, UAE public holidays are rooted in both tradition and governance. This guide will walk you through the Dubai holiday calendar, types of official leaves in Dubai, and smart tips to plan your vacations accordingly.

Dubai Holiday Calendar: An Overview

Dubai, like the rest of the UAE, observes a blend of Islamic holidays and national celebrations. While the Islamic calendar (Hijri) governs religious holidays, fixed-date events follow the Gregorian calendar.

Key National Holidays

• New Year’s Day (January 1): Celebrated across the UAE.
• UAE National Day (December 2): Marks the founding of the UAE in 1971.
• Commemoration Day (December 1): Honoring Emirati martyrs.
  
  

Major Islamic Holidays (Dates Vary)

• Eid Al Fitr: Celebrated at the end of Ramadan. Typically 2–3 days off.
• Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha: A 3–4 day holiday commemorating the Hajj pilgrimage.
• Islamic New Year (Hijri Year): Marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
• Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid Al Nabi): Celebrated with prayers and family gatherings.
  

Note: Islamic holidays are determined by moon sightings and may shift by a day or two each year.

Official Leaves in Dubai: What You Need to Know

For Private Sector Employees

The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) mandates a list of paid public holidays for private-sector employees. Employers cannot deduct wages for these days.

For Government Sector Employees

Government employees may receive slightly more days off than the private sector, especially during extended celebrations like Eid.

Unified Holiday List

As of 2019, the UAE announced a unified list of holidays for both sectors to ensure parity. However, implementation may slightly vary.

Upcoming Government Holidays in UAE: July to December 2025

As we are halfway through 2025, here are the remaining public holidays in Dubai for the rest of the year. Dates are subject to moon sightings and official announcements:

• Islamic New Year – June 27 (1 day) (Recently Observed)
• Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – September 4 (1 day)
• Commemoration Day – December 1 (1 day)
• UAE National Day – December 2 to 3 (2 days)
  

Disclaimer: Dates are approximate and depend on moon sightings and government announcements.

Smart Tips to Plan Your Vacation Around UAE Public Holidays

1. Combine weekends with public holidays for longer breaks.
2. Book flights and hotels early during Eid and National Day to avoid price hikes.
3. Keep an eye on announcements from MOHRE and the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources.
4. Consider offbeat destinations in the UAE during crowded holidays.
5. Leverage flexible work-from-home policies (if applicable) for extended stays.

Read more like this: National Day of UAE: History, Celebrations, and Events

FAQs About Public Holidays in Dubai

1. Are public holidays the same across all emirates?
Yes, but actual observance may vary slightly based on local moon sightings and announcements.

2. Can private sector employees be asked to work on a holiday?
Yes, but they must be compensated with another day off or overtime pay.

3. How are Islamic holidays determined in the UAE?
They follow the Hijri lunar calendar, with dates finalized based on moon sightings by UAE authorities.

4. Are schools and universities closed during public holidays?
Yes, educational institutions follow the official holiday calendar.

5. Do expats celebrate Islamic holidays in Dubai?
Yes, expats enjoy public holidays regardless of religion, and many participate in cultural events and local traditions.

Conclusion

Understanding the UAE’s public holiday calendar helps you better plan personal time, travel, and social engagements. Whether you're observing Eid or enjoying National Day fireworks, holidays in Dubai offer moments of reflection, celebration, and rest.

For more lifestyle tips, planning guides, and local updates, visit Labeeb.ae—your trusted source for everything UAE.

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