UAE Announces Holiday on Islamic New Year

The United Arab Emirates has declared a public holiday on Friday, June 27, in observance of the Hijri New Year.

The announcement was made by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, confirming that government employees will have the day off. A similar notice is expected from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation regarding the private sector.

About the Islamic New Year

Also known as the Hijri New Year, this day marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the Hijrah (migration) of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. While it is not celebrated with the same festivities as Eid Al Fitr or Eid Al Adha, the day holds religious and historical significance and is observed as a public holiday in the UAE.

Upcoming Religious Holiday in 2025

The next notable Islamic occasion following the Hijri New Year is Mawlid Al Nabawi, which celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This is expected to fall on Thursday, September 4, 2025, though the exact date will be confirmed closer to the time based on moon sightings, as is customary with all Islamic observances.

Anticipated Islamic Dates for 2026

Looking ahead to 2026, major Islamic holidays are expected to occur during the cooler months:

• Ramadan 2026 is projected to begin on Wednesday, February 18, subject to moon sighting.
• Eid Al Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, will likely fall on Friday, March 20, potentially offering residents a long weekend.
• Eid Al Adha, one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar, is anticipated around Tuesday, May 26, following the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon on May 17.

As always, final confirmation of these dates will depend on the official lunar calendar and announcements from religious authorities within the UAE.