Public Holidays in Dubai
Public holidays in Dubai are the days when people enjoy unity with their family, traditions, and having spare time. Sometimes they are the best days to blend into the crowds and experience spectacular activities; other times, they mark moments when certain public services pause, allowing responsible individuals to cherish time with their loved ones.
As public holidays in Dubai are celebrated with a blend of Islamic tradition, modern festivity, and extravagant public events it is better to know about them beforehand. As Islamic days follow lunar calendar rather than a solar one, each year some public holidays coincide with another part of the year. Here’s how each major public holiday in Dubai is typically celebrated:
1. Islamic First Day of the Year
Islamic New Year, known as Al Hijri, is a significant occasion in Dubai, observed with a blend of cultural reverence and modern festivities. In 2025, the Islamic New Year is expected to fall on Wednesday, June 25, marking the beginning of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar .
Cultural and Spiritual Observances
While the Islamic New Year is a public holiday in the UAE, it is traditionally a time for reflection and spiritual renewal rather than grand celebrations. Mosques across Dubai hold special prayers and sermons focusing on the significance of the Hijra—the Prophet Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Medina
Many residents use the day to spend quality time with family in this public holiday of Dubai, engage in personal reflection, and partake in community gatherings. It's also common for people to exchange greetings and well-wishes for the year ahead.
Modern Celebrations and Activities
In recent years, Dubai has incorporated modern elements into the observance of Islamic New Year:
- Fireworks and Light Displays: Iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa and Emirates Palace often feature modest fireworks or light shows to mark the occasion
- Cultural Performances: Various venues host traditional music and dance performances, offering residents and tourists a glimpse into Emirati heritage.
- Culinary Experiences: Restaurants across the city may offer special menus featuring traditional Emirati dishes, allowing people to celebrate through cuisine.
Family-Friendly Attractions
For those looking to enjoy the day with family, several attractions offer special experiences:
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- Public Holiday: Islamic New Year is a public holiday in the UAE, so government offices and many businesses will be closed.
- Dry Night: In observance of the occasion, there is typically a "dry night" during which the sale of alcohol is prohibited, and live entertainment is suspended in respect of the holiday.
- Moon Sighting: As the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, the exact date of the New Year may vary depending on the sighting of the moon.
If you're planning to be in Dubai during the Islamic New Year, it's advisable to check local listings and official announcements closer to the date for specific events and activities.
2. Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)
- Duration: 2–3 days.
- Celebration Style:
- Prayers at mosques (especially Grand Mosque in Bur Dubai).
- Family gatherings and feasting after a month of fasting.
- Giving Zakat al-Fitr (charity) to the needy.
- Shopping festivals, fireworks, cultural shows.
- Popular Attractions: Malls offer Eid sales; fireworks at Dubai Festival City and The Beach (JBR).
3. Arafat Day & Eid al-Adha
- Duration: 3–4 days.
- Celebration Style:
- Arafat Day: Spiritual reflection and fasting.
- Eid al-Adha: Animal sacrifice (Qurbani) and distribution of meat to the poor.
- Festive meals, mosque prayers, and visiting relatives.
- Government and businesses may close for up to 4 days.
- Events: Dubai Parks & Resorts and malls often host family events and entertainment.
4. New Year’s Day (1 January)
- Celebration Style: Fireworks, concerts, and parties.
- Notable Locations: Burj Khalifa fireworks, Atlantis the Palm, Global Village, Dubai Festival City
- Vibe: Family outings, luxury hotel events, and nightlife parties.
In the New Year’s Day, The Burj Khalifa - the world's tallest building, hosts a mesmerizing fireworks and laser show. Beyond Downtown Dubai, several landmarks featured their own celebrations:
- Palm Jumeirah: The Pointe hosted a vibrant fireworks show, illuminating the skies over the iconic palm-shaped island.
- Global Village: This multicultural park offered seven countdowns corresponding to different time zones, each accompanied by fireworks and drone displays.
- Dubai Festival City Mall: Visitors enjoyed a blend of fireworks and live entertainment, including performances by renowned artists.
Practical Tips for Attendees
- Transportation: Due to extensive road closures and heavy traffic, attendees were advised to use public transport or arrive early to secure spots.
- Viewing Spots: Many residents opted to watch the fireworks from rooftops or less crowded areas to avoid the downtown congestion.
5. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid al-Nabi)
- Celebration Style:
- Religious programs at mosques and Islamic centers.
- Poetry, sermons, and remembrance events.
- Less commercial, more spiritual.
On this sacred day, mosques across Dubai host special prayers and sermons focusing on the life, teachings, and virtues of the Prophet Muhammad. These gatherings provide an opportunity for reflection and spiritual enrichment, emphasizing the Prophet's message of compassion, humility, and faith.
Beyond religious services, various cultural practices mark this public holiday in Dubai:
- Decorations: Homes, mosques, and public spaces are adorned with lights and banners celebrating the Prophet's birth.
- Community Gatherings: Families and communities come together to share meals and sweets, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness.
- Charitable Acts: Emulating the Prophet's generosity, many engage in acts of charity, such as distributing food to the needy and donating to charitable organizations .
6. Commemoration Day (1 December)
- Purpose: Honors Emirati soldiers who died in service.
While the day is marked with reverence across the UAE, Dubai observes it through various activities:
- Moment of Silence: At 11:30 AM on November 30th, residents and institutions observe a minute of silence to honor the fallen heroes and flags are …
- Flag Displays: The UAE flag is flown at half-mast across government buildings, schools, and public spaces.
If you're in Dubai during this period, it's an opportunity to witness the nation's deep respect for its heroes and to participate in the reflective observances that underscore the country's commitment to honoring its past.
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7. UAE National Day (2–3 December)
Dubai's skyline will be illuminated with spectacular fireworks and light displays at various iconic locations:
- Burj Khalifa: A dazzling fireworks and LED light show will adorn the world's tallest building, accompanied by a choreographed Dubai Fountain performance
- The Beach at JBR: A vibrant fireworks display will light up the coastline, offering a festive atmosphere for families and visitors.
- Global Village: Celebrations will include fireworks and cultural performances, showcasing traditions from around the world.
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Emirati culture takes center stage during National Day celebrations:
- Al-Ayyala Dance: Traditional Emirati stick dance performances will be held at various venues, symbolizing unity and heritage.
- Heritage Villages: Set up across the city, these villages will offer insights into traditional crafts, cuisine, and customs.
- Etihad Museum: Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the formation of the UAE and its journey since 1971.
Concerts & Entertainment
Live music and entertainment will be abundant:
- Coca-Cola Arena: Hosting concerts featuring renowned Arab and international artists.
- La Mer & Al Seef: Beachfront venues will offer live performances, food stalls, and family-friendly activities.
Retailers and restaurants across Dubai will provide special deals:
- Malls: Major shopping centers like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates will offer discounts and promotions.
- Restaurants: Dining establishments will feature special menus and offers to celebrate the occasion.
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Time of Public Holiday in 2025
The UAE government has declared December 2nd and 3rd, 2025, as public holidays for both public and private sectors, allowing residents and visitors to partake in the festivities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the weekly public holiday in Dubai?
As of January 1, 2022, Dubai and the rest of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) officially adopted a Saturday–Sunday weekend for weekly public holidays in Dubai, aligning with global business practices. This change applies to both the public and most private sectors.
Dubai’s Standard Workweek :
- Monday to Friday: Full working days.
- Saturday and Sunday: Official weekend (non-working days).
- Friday: For many public sector employees, Friday is a half-day, with work concluding at 12:00 PM to accommodate the Jumu'ah (Friday) prayer.
2. What is dry night in Dubai?
In Dubai, a "dry night" refers to a designated period during which the sale and service of alcohol are suspended across the city. This observance typically aligns with significant Islamic holidays, such as the Islamic New Year (Al Hijri), Eid Al Mawlid (Prophet Muhammad's birthday), and Israa Wal Miraj. During these times, Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) issues official circulars mandating all licensed venues—including hotels, bars, restaurants, and clubs—to cease alcohol service and suspend live entertainment.
The duration of a dry night usually spans approximately 24 hours, often commencing in the early evening (around 6:00 PM) and concluding the following evening (around 7:00 PM). For instance, during a previous Islamic New Year, the dry night was observed from 6:00 PM on Monday to 7:00 PM on Tuesday.
Dry nights are observed as a mark of respect for Islamic traditions and to ensure that the sanctity of religious occasions is maintained. During these times in Islamic public holidays in Dubai, the focus is on reflection, prayer, and family gatherings, aligning with the spiritual significance of the events.
It's important to note that these restrictions apply uniformly across all licensed establishments in Dubai. However, private events may seek exemptions from the authorities.
If you're planning to visit Dubai during an Islamic holiday, it's advisable to check official announcements for public holidays in Dubai or consult with your accommodation to stay informed about any dry night regulations.
