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    UAE announces 3-day long weekend: Here’s how to make the most of it

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    Life

    August 26, 2025

    Mark your calendars and start planning your long weekend, because an unexpected break is on the horizon. The UAE government has announced that Friday, September 5, will be a public holiday for government employees across the country on the occasion of the Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) birthday.
    This means a welcome three-day weekend is official, with Saturday and Sunday forming the perfect bookends for a mini-getaway or a blissful staycation right here in the Emirates.
    New UAE public holidays law: Your guide to smarter planning for the long weekends in 2025

    The significance behind The holiday
    The holiday, known as Eid Milad un-Nabi, is a significant religious occasion celebrated by Muslims across the globe. It marks the birthday of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) and falls on the 12th day of the Islamic month of Rabi Al Awwal.
    The announcement of the specific date is always a moment of anticipation, as the Hijri calendar is based on lunar sightings. This year, the UAE’s moon sighting committee confirmed the start of Rabi Al Awwal began on Monday, August 25, after the non-sighting of the crescent on August 23. This celestial timing places the celebratory day on September 5.
    In a fascinating twist of astronomical timing, our neighbours in Saudi Arabia will celebrate on a different day this year, as the Kingdom sighted the new moon a day earlier—a rare occurrence that highlights the beautiful, traditional process of following the moon’s cycles.
    Planning your long weekend escape
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    Whether you’re a federal employee enjoying the Friday off or based in Sharjah where Friday is already part of your weekend, this surprise break is a gift of time. It’s the perfect opportunity to:
    Embrace a Local Staycation: The UAE’s world-class hotels are renowned for their exceptional weekend offers. Indulge in a spa day, lounge by a pristine pool, and enjoy a curated dining experience without the hassle of a long flight.
    Dreamy UAE staycations you must visit before the summer ends

    Plan a Neighbouring Emirate Adventure: Use the three days to explore a different corner of the UAE. From the cultural heart of Sharjah and the rugged peaks of Ras Al Khaimah to the lush green landscapes of Fujairah, a change of scenery is just a short drive away.
    Dive into Dubai’s Cultural Calendar: The long weekend is an ideal time to explore the city’s rich art, history, and culinary scenes. Visit a new exhibition, book that famous brunch you’ve been meaning to try, or simply enjoy a serene morning at one of the city’s beautiful parks.
    14 stunning museums to visit in the UAE this summer

    Predicted UAE public holiday dates 2025
    New Year’s Day: Wednesday January 1, 2025
    Eid Al Fitr: Sunday March 30 – Tuesday April 2, 2025
    Arafat Day: Thursday June 5, 2025
    Eid Al Adha: Friday June 6 – Sunday June 8, 2025
    Islamic New Year: Friday June 27, 2025
    The Prophet Muhammad’s birthday (PBUH): Friday September 5, 2025
    National Day: Tuesday December 2 to Wednesday December 3 2025
    So, whether you choose to reflect on the significance of the occasion, embark on a spontaneous adventure, or simply relish in some well-deserved rest, this three-day weekend is your canvas. Start planning now to make it unforgettable.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      UAE announces 3-day weekend for Islamic new year

      by

      Life

      June 16, 2025

      The UAE has officially declared Friday, June 27, 2025, a public holiday in observance of the Islamic New Year, marking the beginning of the Hijri year 1447 AH. The announcement, made by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), ensures a three-day weekend for federal government employees, with work resuming on Monday, June 30.
      The Islamic, or Hijri, calendar is based on lunar cycles, with the new year starting on the first day of Muharram—one of the four sacred months in Islam. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, Islamic dates shift annually by about 10-12 days, as they depend on moon sightings. This year’s holiday follows the UAE Cabinet’s pre-approved list of 2025 public holidays, with the exact date confirmed by official moon-sighting committees.
      While the FAHR’s announcement applies to federal government employees, private sector workers will follow the UAE’s labor law, which grants them the same public holidays unless otherwise stated by their employers. Residents should confirm with their HR departments to ensure alignment.
      This holiday comes shortly after the extended Eid Al Adha break, giving residents yet another opportunity to relax, travel, or spend time with family. With a three-day weekend ahead, many may take advantage of short getaways or staycations, boosting local tourism and hospitality sectors.
      When’s the next long weekend in the UAE?

      What’s Open, What’s Closed?
      While government offices and some businesses will close, shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues are expected to remain open, offering special promotions and events to mark the occasion. Public transport schedules may also see slight adjustments, so commuters should check for updates.
      The Hijri New Year is more than just a day off—it’s a moment for spiritual reflection and renewal. Many Muslims use this time to set intentions for the year ahead, recite prayers, and engage in charitable acts.
      12 activities to try over the long weekend in the UAE

      As the UAE continues to balance modern life with deep-rooted traditions, this holiday serves as a reminder of the country’s cultural and religious heritage. Whether you’re planning a getaway or a quiet weekend at home, make the most of this well-deserved break.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images & Feature Image: @humairaa_____ More

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      UAE Public Holidays 2025: How to plan your long weekends and extended breaks?

      by

      Life

      1 hour ago

      As we settle into 2025, residents across the UAE are already looking ahead to plan their vacations and downtime around the year’s public holidays.
      The official calendar has been released, confirming at least 12 days off for both public and private sector employees. These breaks present perfect opportunities for staycations, international travel, or simply enjoying quality time with loved ones.
      The most significant break from now is the one that is yet to come in June with the combination of Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha, potentially offering another four consecutive days off from June 5-8.
      Eid Al Adha 2025: UAE prepares for moon sighting, here’s all you need to know

      Mid-year brings the Islamic New Year on June 26, while September 5 marks the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday. The year concludes with the UAE’s National Day celebrations on December 2-3, always a highlight on the Emirates’ social calendar with spectacular fireworks and events across all seven emirates.
      For savvy planners, these holidays present excellent opportunities to maximize time off. By strategically combining just 14 days of annual leave with public holidays and weekends, residents can create extended breaks totaling 42 days off throughout the year. This smart scheduling approach allows for multiple international trips or longer stays abroad without exhausting annual leave allowances.
      Turn your 4 day Eid holiday into a 16 day vacation this year

      It’s important to note that while these dates are confirmed, some Islamic holidays may be adjusted based on moon sightings as the dates approach. The UAE government has implemented new regulations under Cabinet Resolution No.27 of 2024 to ensure residents don’t miss out when holidays fall on weekends, with provisions to move most observances to weekdays – though Eid celebrations remain exceptions to this rule.
      With this comprehensive holiday schedule, 2025 promises numerous opportunities for rest, travel, and celebration. Whether you’re planning city breaks, beach getaways, or cultural experiences, these public holidays provide the perfect framework to build your annual travel plans around.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram Feature Image: @fatmaaltaher_ More