The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) has confirmed that January 1, 2025 will be an official holiday in the UAE for all private sector employees. The announcement aligns with the UAE Cabinet’s decision on public holidays for government and private sector workers.
The holiday will fall on Wednesday, marking the first public holiday of 2025 for government employees, according to the Federal Government Human Resources Authority. This follows the country’s official list of public holidays, which was published earlier this year.
UAE residents can expect up to 13 public holidays in 2025. However, there will be some notable changes, particularly when it comes to the Islamic festival of Eid Al-Fitr. Unlike previous years, the holidays will be shorter in 2025.
Shorter Eid Al Fitr Holidays
the change to Eid Al-Fitr marks the most significant alteration to the festive calendar in recent years. The Eid break, traditionally celebrated after the month of Ramadan, in 2025 will allow residents to enjoy up to four days off. The holiday will cover the first three days of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan.
If Ramadan lasts 30 days, residents will have a four-day break Ramadan 30 to Shawwal 3. If Ramadan lasts 29 days, the break will only include the first three days of Eid (Shawwal 1 to 3). In 2024, the Eid Al Fitr holiday was extended from Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3creating a nine-day break when combined with weekends.
Arafah Day and Eid al Adha
In addition to Eid Al-Fitranother key holiday in 2025 will be Arafah Day in Dhul Hijjah 9considered the holiest day of Islam. This will be followed by a three-day holiday to Eid Al-Adha of Dhul Hijjah 10-12offering another four days off to residents.
These updates reflect the UAE’s commitment to providing clear and structured holiday calendars, ensuring that both residents and businesses can plan accordingly.
