Are you wondering when the UAE will observe the Hijri New Year in 2025? You’re not alone. Every year, residents across the UAE await the official announcement for the Islamic New Year holiday. Known as the Hijri New Year, this occasion marks the beginning of a new lunar year in the Islamic calendar.
In 2025, the UAE government has officially declared Friday, June 27, as a public holiday for this significant event. The announcement affects both the public and private sectors, offering most employees a well-deserved long weekend.
While the Hijri New Year isn’t celebrated with elaborate festivities like Eid, it carries deep cultural and spiritual meaning for Muslims worldwide.
Whether you’re a resident planning a short getaway or an employer scheduling your workforce, staying updated on this holiday is essential. Let’s explore what this announcement means, who it applies to, and how it may impact your plans in the UAE.
What Is the Hijri New Year and Why Is It Celebrated in the UAE?
The Hijri New Year, also called the Islamic New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar and is one of the key spiritual events observed in the Muslim world.
Unlike the Gregorian New Year, celebrated with fireworks and countdowns, the Islamic New Year is a time for reflection and prayer. It begins on the first day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar.
In the UAE, the Hijri New Year is recognized as a public holiday, and its cultural and spiritual significance is respected across the country.
The occasion commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s migration (Hijrah) from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This migration signifies the starting point of the Islamic calendar and holds profound historical and religious meaning.
Key aspects of the Hijri New Year include:
- It is based on lunar cycles, unlike the solar Gregorian calendar.
- The first day of Muharram is considered sacred in Islam.
- Observances are generally spiritual rather than festive.
- Many Muslims attend special prayers and reflect on the past year.
In the UAE, this observance underscores the country’s commitment to Islamic traditions and provides an opportunity for citizens and residents to engage in introspection and spiritual practices. The holiday also aligns with the UAE’s broader respect for religious and cultural observances.
When Is the Hijri New Year Holiday in the UAE in 2025?
As the UAE aligns with the Islamic lunar calendar, the Hijri New Year holiday date is always subject to moon-sighting. However, for 2025, the government has made an early announcement to aid in planning and preparation.
Official Holiday Dates Announced
The UAE Cabinet has confirmed that Friday, June 27, 2025, will be a public holiday for both the public and private sectors in observance of the Hijri New Year, 1447 AH.
This announcement was made jointly by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Gregorian Calendar vs Hijri Calendar Alignment
- The Islamic New Year starts with Muharram 1, which is based on lunar observation.
- Due to the nature of the lunar cycle, the exact date may shift by a day depending on moon sightings.
- While astronomical predictions estimate Muharram 1 to fall on Thursday, June 26, 2025, the official public holiday will be observed on Friday, June 27.
Uae Cabinet Announcements and Updates
The holiday was declared in advance as part of the UAE’s 2025 approved holiday calendar. It allows citizens and residents to benefit from a three-day weekend, with normal work resuming on Monday, June 30.
| Occasion | Islamic Date | Gregorian Date | Sector |
| Hijri New Year 1447 | 1 Muharram | June 27, 2025 | Public & Private |
This early declaration provides residents the opportunity to plan vacations, short getaways, or rest days accordingly.
Who Is Entitled to the Hijri New Year Holiday in the UAE?
The UAE has always prioritised a work-life balance, and the declaration of public holidays, including the Hijri New Year, plays a vital role in this framework. The announcement for 2025 ensures that both public and private sector employees receive the day off.
Public Sector Leave Policy
Employees working in ministries, government departments, and other federal entities will enjoy a one-day paid holiday on Friday, June 27, 2025. The announcement by FAHR was made through an official circular, ensuring compliance across all government institutions.
- Applies to all federal government workers
- Part of the UAE’s 2025 official holiday calendar
- Employees benefit from a three-day weekend
- Normal working hours resume on Monday, June 30
Private Sector Leave Details (Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation Update)
Following the public sector announcement, MOHRE confirmed that the same date applies to private companies. This step reflects the UAE’s strategy to standardize holiday observances across sectors.
- Friday, June 27, is an official paid holiday for private companies
- Employers are encouraged to comply with labour laws
- Employees must not be forced to work unless necessary, and compensation applies
Differences in Entitlements
While both sectors observe the same date, differences may still exist in implementation:
- Government employees typically receive automatic leave
- Private companies may require formal notice or internal HR coordination
- Employees in essential services may work with compensatory benefits
This unified approach enhances fairness while respecting operational differences.
How Does the UAE Decide on Islamic Holiday Dates?
Islamic holidays in the UAE, including the Hijri New Year, are determined through a combination of astronomical forecasting and religious confirmation via moon-sighting. This process ensures alignment with the Hijri lunar calendar, which differs from the Gregorian solar calendar.
- Moon-sighting committees are appointed to observe the crescent moon.
- Religious authorities confirm the sighting to mark the start of Muharram.
- Official announcements are often made the night before the holiday.
This practice ensures religious accuracy and consistency. However, due to its lunar nature, the exact dates of Islamic holidays are not fixed and can change annually. Government entities like FAHR and MOHRE release holiday dates based on these confirmations.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated with government channels or trusted news outlets for the latest declarations.
What Should You Know If You’re Working or Travelling on This Day?
Planning to travel or work during the Hijri New Year holiday in the UAE? There are a few practical considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience.
- Most government offices and private businesses will be closed on June 27.
- Airports, malls, and hospitality venues typically remain open.
- Public transportation services may run on modified schedules.
Travelers should confirm bookings and schedules in advance. For employees in essential services such as healthcare, hospitality, and aviation, work may continue but often includes extra compensation or compensatory leave.
If you’re staying in the UAE:
- Expect moderate crowds at tourist spots
- Watch out for cultural events and religious programming
- Plan errands and business tasks before or after the holiday
Staying informed can help avoid delays or missed opportunities during the public holiday.
How Does the Hijri New Year Affect the UAE’s Work Week and Schedule?
The declaration of Friday, June 27, as a public holiday for the Hijri New Year brings a shift to the work schedule for many across the UAE.
How Does This Affect Public and Private Sector Workweeks?
- Friday is already part of the weekend in the UAE, so many workers gain an extended weekend.
- Employees in the public sector typically return to work on Monday, June 30.
- Private companies may resume work depending on internal policies.
Is There a Long Weekend for Most Employees?
- Yes, this creates a three-day weekend for most government employees.
- For private sector employees, especially those with Friday-Saturday off, the holiday aligns well with regular time off.
Do Working Hours Shift During Islamic Holidays?
- Generally, work hours are not officially changed unless during Ramadan.
- However, reduced or flexible shifts may be implemented informally, depending on the employer.
Understanding these adjustments can help both employees and employers plan their schedules effectively.
What Other Upcoming Public Holidays Follow the Hijri New Year in 2025?
With the Hijri New Year being one of the first religious holidays in the second half of the year, it sets the stage for several more observances to come in the UAE.
Which Are the Major Holidays Following the Hijri New Year in 2025?
| Holiday Name | Islamic Date | Expected Gregorian Date |
| Mawlid Al Nabawi | 12 Rabi Al Awwal | September 4, 2025 |
| UAE National Day | Fixed Date | December 2 and 3, 2025 |
When Will the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday Be Observed?
- Mawlid Al Nabawi is expected on Thursday, September 4, 2025.
- The date will be confirmed through moon-sighting.
What is the Final Holiday of 2025?
- UAE National Day, celebrated on December 2 and 3, is the last major public holiday.
- It offers a mid-week break for most sectors.
Staying aware of these dates allows for strategic planning, whether for business or leisure.
Conclusion
Keeping up with official holiday announcements, such as the Hijri New Year in 2025, is vital for everyone living and working in the UAE.
Whether you’re managing a team, booking travel, or simply planning family time, knowing the exact dates helps you make informed decisions. Holidays like these are more than days off—they reflect the nation’s respect for its cultural and religious roots.
The UAE’s commitment to sharing announcements early ensures smooth transitions and promotes work-life balance. As a resident, staying updated allows you to benefit from these well-deserved breaks while honouring their significance.
FAQs
What is the significance of the 1st of Muharram in Islam?
The 1st of Muharram marks the start of the Islamic calendar and commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s migration to Medina.
How does the Hijri calendar differ from the Gregorian calendar?
The Hijri calendar is lunar-based, while the Gregorian calendar is solar-based, leading to different lengths and shifting dates for Islamic events each year.
Are all Islamic holidays declared as paid leave in the UAE?
Yes, most Islamic holidays, including the Hijri New Year are declared as official paid leave for both public and private sectors.
Will private companies follow the same holiday dates as the government?
Generally, yes. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation ensures private sector holidays align with public announcements.
Is the Hijri New Year considered a festive event in the UAE?
It is more spiritual than festive, with a focus on reflection and prayer rather than large celebrations.
Where can I check the confirmed UAE public holiday announcements?
You can check on official government portals or leading news websites like Khaleej Times and Gulf News.
Can the Hijri New Year date change after the announcement?
Yes, final confirmation depends on moon-sighting, though dates are announced in advance for planning purposes.
