The United Arab Emirates has officially announced a public holiday in observance of the Islamic New Year for both private and public sector employees in 2025.
Workers across all sectors will benefit from a long weekend spanning three days, from Friday, June 27 to Sunday, June 29.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) confirmed that June 27 will be a public holiday for private sector employees, while the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources designated the same date as an official holiday for government workers.
Last year, the Islamic New Year coincided with the weekend, which for most residents in the UAE already marks time off. This year, however, employees can look forward to an official day off.
What is Islamic New Year?
The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year or Al Hijri, marks the beginning of the Hijri calendar and the first day of the month of Muharram. This occasion is celebrated nationwide with various festivities including fireworks displays and special dining offers.
During Muharram, particular attention is given to Ashura — the 10th day of the month — which holds deep religious significance. On Ashura, Muslims commemorate historical events such as the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, during the Battle of Karbala. The day is especially significant for Shia Muslims, who observe mourning rituals and processions.
Determining the Holiday Date
The precise date of the Islamic New Year varies annually because it follows the lunar Hijri calendar rather than the Gregorian solar calendar. Each new month in the Islamic calendar begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, which can differ by region, sometimes resulting in variations in holiday observances — a factor that also explains the differing dates for Ramadan and Eid across countries.
This year, the start of Muharram will be confirmed following the moon sighting on the evening of Wednesday, June 25. Current forecasts suggest that the Islamic New Year will fall on Thursday, June 26, although it may be observed on Friday, June 27 if the preceding month, Dhu Al Hijjah, lasts 30 days.
According to the UAE Public Holiday Law introduced earlier this year, official holidays can be shifted to the start or end of the week upon a cabinet decision. This year marks the first time the cabinet has exercised this provision to align the Islamic New Year holiday with a longer weekend.
