The United Arab Emirates has announced that Friday, June 27, 2025, will be a paid holiday for private sector employees in observance of the Islamic New Year (1447 AH).
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirmed the date in an official statement issued on Saturday. The holiday aligns with the first day of Muharram, the opening month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and is part of the UAE Cabinet’s approved list of public holidays for the year.
The Islamic New Year holiday applies to all private sector establishments, with the MoHRE urging employers to comply with the directive. For employees whose weekend falls on Saturday and Sunday, the announcement effectively creates a three-day weekend, from June 27 to June 29. Regular working hours will resume on Monday, June 30.
The unified holiday calendar, introduced by the UAE government, aims to standardize leave across public and private sectors. The system is designed to promote equality and improve work-life balance for employees across the country.
The extended break follows shortly after the Eid Al Adha holiday earlier in June, providing UAE residents with another opportunity for rest, travel, or family time.
The Hijri calendar, also known as the Islamic calendar, is based on lunar cycles and began in 622 CE with the migration (Hijrah) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Makkah to Madinah. As it follows the moon’s phases, dates shift by approximately 10 to 12 days each year compared to the Gregorian calendar.
The UAE’s continued recognition of Islamic holidays highlights its commitment to honoring religious traditions while maintaining a balanced and inclusive work culture.
