Eid Al Fitr 2025 in the UAE: Dates, public holidays, and what to expect

Eid Al Fitr Holidays

Plan your time off with this guide to Eid Al Fitr 2025 public holidays and expected dates

 

As we move further into 2025, anticipation builds for the year’s first significant public holiday—Eid Al Fitr.

This much-loved celebration marks the conclusion of Ramadan and ushers in a period of festivity and rest. Here’s everything you need to know about the dates, holidays, and what to expect.

 

Anticipated dates for Eid Al Fitr 2025

 

Based on astronomical forecasts, Ramadan is expected to commence on Saturday 1 March, 2025. If the holy month lasts for 29 days, Eid Al Fitr could begin on Sunday 30 March 2025, giving residents a four-day weekend, inclusive of Sunday to Tuesday as public holidays and the preceding weekend.

However, if Ramadan extends to 30 days, Eid celebrations will likely start on Monday 31 March 2025, offering an extended five-day break until Wednesday, alongside the weekend. These dates will be confirmed closer to the event based on the traditional moonsighting.

 

Public holidays during Eid Al Fitr

 

The UAE government has outlined that public holidays for Eid Al Fitr will run from Ramadan 30 through Shawwal 3. However, unlike other public holidays that can be rescheduled if they coincide with weekends, this rule does not apply to Eid Al Fitr or Eid Al Adha.

 

What Is Eid Al Fitr?

 

Eid Al Fitr, translating to the “festival of breaking the fast,” is one of the most important Islamic holidays. It celebrates the conclusion of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. The festival is a time for gratitude, communal meals, giving to charity, and spending quality time with loved ones.

 

Other major UAE holidays in 2025

 

Looking ahead, another important occasion to note is Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha, which are predicted to fall between Thursday 5 June and Sunday, 8 June 2025. These dates could provide a long weekend to enjoy festivities or take a short vacation.

 

Preparing for Eid Al Fitr

 

Since Ramadan falls during winter months until 2031, there’s an increased chance of cloudy skies delaying moon sightings, potentially extending the holy month to 30 days. Whether it’s a shorter or longer break, Eid Al Fitr 2025 is an excellent opportunity to relax, connect with loved ones, and recharge.

Stay tuned for official announcements and start planning your celebrations well in advance to make the most of this special holiday.

 

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Derek Issacs

A Brit in the Middle East for 25 years and counting, Derek loves scouring the streets for those under-the-radar cultural gems. And when he’s not putting Yalla – Abu Dhabi magazine to bed, you’ll find him working out at the gym.