The UAE is home to a vibrant mix of cultural, religious, and national holidays. To help you plan your year ahead, we’ve created this comprehensive calendar of events in 2025. Save it, share it, and use it to organize your vacations, family gatherings, and other key moments.

Holidays in the UAE 2025: Complete List

January

• January 1, Wednesday – New Year’s Day (1 day)

A global celebration marked by fireworks, family dinners, and festive activities. The UAE lights up with dazzling firework displays and live entertainment.

• January 1–31 – Dubai Shopping Festival (31 days)

The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is the ultimate shopping and entertainment extravaganza. With discounts of up to 90%, exciting raffles, live concerts, and family-friendly events, it’s a must-visit for shopaholics and families alike. Highlights include luxury prize giveaways, culinary festivals, and breathtaking fireworks.

February

• February 14, Friday – Valentine’s Day (1 day)

A romantic day celebrated with gifts, flowers, and candlelit dinners. Many restaurants and hotels in the UAE offer exclusive Valentine’s packages for couples.

• February 28 – March 29, Friday to Saturday – Ramadan (1 month)

The holy month of fasting and spiritual reflection for Muslims. Iftars (evening meals to break the fast) are hosted across the UAE, featuring traditional dishes and a sense of community.

March

• March 8, Saturday – International Women’s Day (1 day)

A celebration of women’s achievements. Events, special discounts, and campaigns honor women throughout the UAE.

• March 17, Monday – St. Patrick’s Day (1 day)

An Irish festival featuring parades, traditional music, and themed parties.

• March 21, Friday – Mother’s Day (1 day)

A special day to honor mothers. Gifts, flowers, and family dinners are popular ways to celebrate, alongside promotions in malls and restaurants.

• March 31 – April 2, Monday to Wednesday – Eid Al Fitr (3 days)

The festival marking the end of Ramadan. Families gather, exchange gifts, and give to charity. Fireworks and public celebrations light up the UAE during these festive days.

May – June

• May 30, Friday – Arafat Day (1 day)

A sacred day of reflection and prayers during the Hajj pilgrimage.

• May 31 – June 2, Saturday to Monday – Eid Al Adha (3 days)

The festival of sacrifice is celebrated with family gatherings, charitable acts, and festive meals.

• June 21, Saturday – Father’s Day (1 day)

A day to appreciate fathers with gifts, special dinners, and family activities.

• June 27, Friday – Islamic New Year (1 day)

The beginning of the new year in the Islamic calendar, observed with prayers and reflection.

September

• September 1, Monday – Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday and Start of the School Year (1 day)

A day for religious observance coinciding with the first day of the school year in the UAE.

• September 4–5, Thursday to Friday – Mawlid Al Nabi (2 days)

Celebrating the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday with prayers, Quran recitations, and charity events.

October

• October 31, Friday – Halloween (1 day)

A fun-filled day of costumes, themed parties, and spooky treats. Shopping malls and entertainment venues host Halloween-themed events for families and children.

• October 20, Monday – Diwali (1 day)

The festival of lights is celebrated with candles, traditional Indian sweets, and colorful decorations, especially among the Indian community in the UAE.

November – December

• November 3, Monday – UAE Flag Day (1 day)

A national day of pride with flag-raising ceremonies across the country.

• November 28, Friday – Black Friday (1 day)

The biggest shopping day of the year, with massive discounts in stores and online.

• December 1, Monday – Commemoration Day (1 day)

A day to honor the memory of the UAE’s martyrs with ceremonies and a national moment of silence.

• December 2–3, Tuesday to Wednesday – UAE National Day (2 days)

The UAE’s most significant holiday, celebrating the country’s unity and achievements with parades, concerts, fireworks, and cultural events.

Why Plan Ahead for UAE Holidays?

Knowing the holiday dates for 2025 can help you plan vacations, family outings, and events more effectively. Use this guide to make the most of the year ahead, and share it with friends and family to ensure everyone is ready to celebrate!

Save this calendar now and never miss a moment of joy in the UAE!