The UAE Cabinet confirmed at the beginning of 2025 that there would be at least 12 Public Holidays Dubai this year, depending on official moon sighting. Hence, the next major break on the UAE public holiday calendar is just around the corner. However, the best part is that it could turn into the longest weekend for the emirates’ residents.
When are the next Public Holidays Dubai?
After the country observed Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) on Friday, September 5, the next public holiday in Dubai will be the UAE National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad. However, the occasion will be celebrated on the 2nd of October. Moreover, this holiday is the formation day of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
According to the UAE public holiday law, the official days of the National Day fall on December 2 and December 3. Hence, this gives residents across Dubai and the UAE a two-day mid-week break.
On the other side, some holidays could be shifted to the beginning or end of the day under the revised public holiday framework introduced in early 2025. However, Eid holidays are exempt from this rule. Hence, this means that the UAE National Day 2025 could potentially be moved or extended to offer an even longer break.
Possibility of an Extended Long Weekend
Suppose the National Day holiday is shifted. In that case, employees in Dubai could get Monday, December 1, off instead of Wednesday, December 3, to create a four-day weekend. Alternatively, if the holiday is extended instead of shifted, December 1 might be added as an extra day off. Hence, it could result in a five-day weekend from Monday, December 1, to Friday, December 5, 2025.
It is essential to note that the UAE Cabinet will provide the ultimate confirmation on whether it will be a long weekend or not. Still, many residents are already planning their travel and family gatherings around this expected Dubai long weekend.
Full List of UAE Public Holidays 2025
As we mentioned above, the UAE will observe at least 12 official public holidays this year. Below is the complete list of those holidays:
- New Year’s Day – Wednesday, January 1
- Eid Al Fitr – Sunday, March 30 to Tuesday, April 1
- Arafat Day – Thursday, June 5
- Eid Al Adha – Friday, June 6 to Sunday, June 8
- Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) – Friday, June 27
- The Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) – Friday, September 5
- UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) – Tuesday, December 2 to Wednesday, December 3
These dates combine fixed Gregorian holidays (such as New Year’s Day and National Day) and lunar-based Islamic holidays, which depend on moon sightings each year.
Public Holiday Rules and Adjustments
As we mentioned earlier, holidays that fall mid-week can be moved to create a long weekend under the new Cabinet Resolution introduced in 2025. However, this rule ensures productivity and employee well-being. Yet, this rule excludes the Eid holiday, which requires following the lunar calendar dates.
The same regulation states that if a public holiday falls on a weekend, it will not be carried forward. Hence, this approach ensures that Public Holidays Dubai remains consistent while giving residents additional opportunities to plan extended weekend breaks.
Looking Ahead: UAE Public Holidays 2026 (Predicted)
According to early astronomical data, 2026 is expected to also include 12 public holidays. Below are the predicted dates:
- New Year’s Day – January 1
- Eid Al Fitr – March 20–22
- Eid Al Adha – May 26–31
- Islamic New Year – June 17
- Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) – Rabi Al Awwal 12
- UAE National Day – December 2–3
These predictions help residents and businesses prepare for future travel and event planning. However, the final confirmation will come closer to each closer.
Read more:
UAE National Day Holiday 2025: Dates, Meaning, and the Spirit of Eid Al Etihad
UAE Ministry of Education Lists 7 Categories Eligible for Excused Absence as Exams Approach
