United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) observes several public holidays that reflect its cultural, religious, and national heritage. These holidays include Islamic religious celebrations, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, as well as national holidays that commemorate the country’s founding and history. Many holidays are based on the Islamic lunar calendar, so their exact dates vary each year.

• New Year's Day

  • Origin & Significance: Marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year.
  • Date & Observance: Celebrated on January 1st. It is a public holiday with official closures and celebrations.
  • Notable: Often observed with fireworks and festivities nationwide.

• Eid al-Fitr Holiday (estimated)

  • Origin & Significance: Marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.
  • Date & Observance: Celebrated based on the lunar calendar, usually lasting 1-3 days.
  • Traditions: Muslims gather for prayers, feasts, and giving charity.

• Eid al-Fitr (estimated)

  • Same as above.

• Arafat Day (estimated)

  • Origin & Significance: The second day of the Hajj pilgrimage, commemorating the Prophet Muhammad’s farewell sermon.
  • Date & Observance: Observed on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah (Islamic calendar).
  • Traditions: Pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat; others observe a day of prayer and reflection.

• Eid al-Adha (estimated)

  • Origin & Significance: Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
  • Date & Observance: Celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah.
  • Traditions: Animal sacrifice, prayers, and feasting with family and community.

• Islamic New Year (estimated)

  • Origin & Significance: Marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year.
  • Date & Observance: Falls on the first day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar.
  • Traditions: Generally a quiet day for religious reflection.

• Prophet's Birthday (estimated)

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.
  • Date & Observance: Observed on the 12th day of Rabi' al-Awwal (Islamic calendar).
  • Traditions: Religious lectures, prayers, and community events.

• National Day

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates the unification of the seven emirates and the formation of the UAE in 1971.
  • Date & Observance: December 2nd is the main day, often accompanied by a holiday on December 3rd.
  • Traditions: Parades, fireworks, cultural displays, and patriotic events across the country.

Site officiel de référence

• UAE Government Official Portal