Abu Dhabi, December 31, 2023 – The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has confirmed that Wednesday, January 1, 2025, will be the first public holiday of the new year for government employees across the United Arab Emirates.
The announcement, made on Friday, aligns with the country’s official calendar of public holidays issued earlier this year.
With up to 13 public holidays slated for 2025, residents can look forward to a range of opportunities to celebrate key national and Islamic occasions.
However, there are some notable changes compared to previous years, particularly concerning the duration of breaks for Islamic festivals such as Eid Al Fitr.
Shorter Break for Eid Al Fitr in 2025
The most significant adjustment to the public holiday schedule pertains to Eid Al Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
Unlike 2024, when residents enjoyed up to nine days off due to a combination of public holidays and weekends, the 2025 Eid Al Fitr holiday is expected to be shorter.
According to the UAE Cabinet resolution, the official break will include the first three days of Shawwal, the Islamic month following Ramadan.
If Ramadan lasts 30 days, the holiday will span from the 30th of Ramadan to the 3rd of Shawwal, providing residents with four days off. However, if Ramadan ends after 29 days, the break will cover only the first three days of Shawwal.
This adjustment reflects the country’s commitment to aligning holidays with Islamic calendar observances while optimizing work schedules.
Eid Al Adha and Arafah Day to Offer Extended Breaks
Another highlight of the 2025 public holiday calendar is the four-day break for Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha.
Arafah Day, considered one of the holiest days in Islam, will fall on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah. It will be immediately followed by a three-day holiday for Eid Al Adha, from the 10th to the 12th of Dhul Hijjah.
This extended break provides residents and expatriates with an opportunity to spend time with their families, perform religious rituals, or embark on leisure trips.
Fireworks and Festivities Await on New Year’s Eve
Ahead of the first public holiday of 2025, UAE residents are set to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style. Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Festival will feature a grand fireworks display on December 31, offering a vibrant start to the new year.
The festival is expected to draw large crowds, with visitors eager to witness the record-breaking fireworks and enjoy other cultural events.
Residents to Stay Updated
As the UAE prepares to ring in 2025, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has encouraged residents and employees to stay informed about official announcements.
Updates regarding public holidays and other important events are readily available through platforms such as WhatsApp Channels.
With a diverse and well-balanced holiday schedule for the upcoming year, 2025 promises to offer residents a mix of cultural celebrations, religious observances, and opportunities for relaxation.