Post by : Sam Jeet Rahman
The UAE is famous for its luxurious lifestyle, scenic deserts, and modern cities, but did you know it’s also perfect for long weekend travel? With public holidays in 2025 strategically spread throughout the year, residents and expats have plenty of opportunities to explore the Emirates or nearby countries without taking too many leave days. Here’s your ultimate guide to UAE public holidays in 2025 and exciting long weekend travel ideas.
The UAE observes a mix of Islamic holidays and national celebrations, many of which are linked to the Hijri calendar, meaning exact dates may shift slightly. Key public holidays include:
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2025
Isra and Mi’raj – February 14, 2025 (approx.)
Eid Al-Fitr – Expected around March 29–31, 2025
Arafat Day – Expected around June 6, 2025
Eid Al-Adha – Expected around June 7–10, 2025
Hijri New Year – Expected around July 28, 2025
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – Expected around September 6, 2025
Commemoration Day – December 1, 2025
UAE National Day – December 2–3, 2025
Tip: Islamic holidays are based on the lunar calendar, so dates may change depending on the moon sighting.
With these holidays, you can plan quick trips, whether you want relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences.
Desert Safari & Overnight Camping in Abu Dhabi or Dubai – Enjoy dune bashing, camel rides, and starry night camping. Perfect for Eid Al-Fitr or Arafat Day weekends.
Weekend in Ras Al Khaimah – Adventure seekers can experience Jebel Jais zipline, mountain hiking, and luxury resorts. Great for New Year or Hijri New Year weekends.
Cultural & City Break in Sharjah – Explore museums, heritage villages, and art galleries. Ideal during Commemoration Day or National Day.
International Getaway to Oman – Scenic drives, Salalah beaches, and Nizwa forts are just a few hours’ drive. Best during Eid or long weekends in spring and summer.
Beach Relaxation in Fujairah – Enjoy snorkeling, water sports, and quiet beaches, perfect for Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday or 3-day weekends.
Luxury Staycations in Dubai – Quick urban breaks at Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah resorts, or Marina hotels, suitable for any public holiday.
| Public Holiday | Date | Suggested Destination | Recommended Activities | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Jan 1 (Wed) | Dubai / Abu Dhabi | Luxury staycation, city sightseeing, fine dining, fireworks | Couples, Families |
| Isra and Mi’raj | Feb 14 (Fri) | Ras Al Khaimah | Jebel Jais zipline, mountain hiking, resort stay | Adventure Seekers, Families |
| Eid Al-Fitr | Mar 29–31 (Sat–Mon) | Liwa Oasis / Abu Dhabi Desert | Desert safari, camel rides, overnight camping | Adventure & Nature Lovers |
| Arafat Day | Jun 6 (Fri) | Fujairah / East Coast | Beach relaxation, snorkeling, water sports | Families, Couples |
| Eid Al-Adha | Jun 7–10 (Sat–Tue) | Oman (Musandam / Salalah) | Scenic drives, mountains, cultural tours | Adventure Seekers, Culture Enthusiasts |
| Hijri New Year | Jul 28 (Mon) | Dubai / Sharjah | City exploration, museums, cultural experiences | Families, Culture Lovers |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday | Sep 6 (Sat) | Fujairah / Ras Al Khaimah | Beach, nature retreats, local attractions | Families & Couples |
| Commemoration Day | Dec 1 (Mon) | Sharjah / Ajman | Museums, heritage villages, art galleries | Culture Enthusiasts, Families |
| UAE National Day | Dec 2–3 (Tue–Wed) | Dubai / Abu Dhabi | Fireworks, parades, theme parks, city events | Everyone, Families & Tourists |
Combine leave days: Add a day off before or after a mid-week holiday to create a 4–5 day weekend.
Book early: Hotels and tours fill up quickly during long weekends.
Explore locally: UAE’s emirates offer diverse experiences within a short drive.
Mix adventure & relaxation: Plan activities like mountain hikes, desert camping, and beach days for a balanced break.
Family-friendly options: Many resorts and destinations provide kid-friendly amenities and entertainment.
Minimal leave days required: Many holidays are mid-week, but with planning, you can enjoy extended breaks.
Diverse experiences: From luxury urban escapes to nature retreats, there’s something for everyone.
Family-friendly options: Dubai and neighboring emirates have resorts, parks, and cultural attractions ideal for children.
Budget flexibility: You can choose economical trips like camping or splurge on luxury resorts.
UAE public holidays in 2025 are more than just days off—they’re a chance to explore, relax, and create memories. With this long weekend travel calendar, you can maximize every holiday, whether it’s a desert adventure, beach retreat, city break, or international getaway.
Dulquer Salmaan Faces On-Screen Slap Drama in ‘Kaantha’
Bhagyashri Borse recalls hesitating to slap Dulquer Salmaan in ‘Kaantha’. The 1950s-set drama earns
Karan Johar Hints at Ahaan Panday-Aneet Padda’s Possible Romance
Karan Johar sparks rumours about Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, exciting fans after the release of Sa
Miss India Manika Vishwakarma stuns in electric blue swimsuit at Miss Universe 2025
Miss India Manika Vishwakarma wows in an electric blue one-piece swimsuit at Miss Universe 2025, sho
Etihad & Vietnam Airlines Launch Codeshare, Connect Asia & Mideast
Etihad and Vietnam Airlines join forces with a codeshare, linking Abu Dhabi to Hanoi and beyond, exp
Madhuri Dixit Returns as a Dark Serial Killer in Mrs Deshpande
Madhuri Dixit stuns fans with a dark new avatar in Mrs Deshpande, a thriller series where she plays
Winter Skincare Guide 2025: Keep Your Skin Soft, Hydrated, and Glowing
Prepare your skin for winter 2025 with hydrating cleansers, moisturisers, sunscreen, and simple habi
Aaishvary Thackeray to Face Ahaan Panday in Action Thriller
Rising star Aaishvary Thackeray to play villain opposite Ahaan Panday in Ali Abbas Zafar’s upcoming
PTPA Nears Settlement with Tennis Australia Over Player Concerns
PTPA is close to settling with Tennis Australia over player welfare concerns and tournament practice
Mushfiqur Rahim Hits Century in 100th Test Against Ireland
Mushfiqur Rahim scored a century in his 100th Test against Ireland, becoming the 11th batter in hist
Shubman Gill Misses Second Test, Rishabh Pant to Captain India
Shubman Gill ruled out of second Test vs South Africa; Rishabh Pant captains, Sai Sudharsan steps in
Italy Beats Austria to Reach Davis Cup Semi-Finals 2025
Italy beat Austria 2-0 in Davis Cup to reach semi-finals, with Berrettini and Cobolli leading, setti
IIHF to Require Neck Guards at 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics
IIHF makes neck guards mandatory for players at 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics after a fatal 2023 inju
Jesper Wallstedt Leads Wild to 4-3 Win Over Carolina Hurricanes
Jesper Wallstedt made 42 saves and led Minnesota Wild to a 4-3 shootout win over Carolina, with Bold
Mushfiqur Rahim Scores Century in 100th Test Against Ireland
Mushfiqur Rahim scored a century in his 100th Test against Ireland, joining cricket legends and mark
Sonam Kapoor Glows as She Announces Second Pregnancy in Diana-Inspired Look
Sonam Kapoor announces her second pregnancy in a Princess Diana-inspired pink outfit, receiving warm
