Eid Al Adha Dates 2025: UAE's Official Holiday Schedule

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Are you wondering when you’ll get your next long weekend in the UAE? If so, Eid Al Adha 2025 is just around the corner and it’s one of the most anticipated public holidays of the year. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, attending Eid prayers, or preparing to celebrate with loved ones, knowing the exact dates and schedule is essential.

Eid Al Adha is not only a sacred Islamic occasion but also a time when residents across the UAE come together in prayer, celebration, and reflection. With government announcements and moon sightings now confirming the official dates, this guide gives you everything you need to know.

From the exact day it falls to how the holidays will impact schools, businesses, and public life, we’ve covered it all for you. Let’s dive into what you can expect from the Eid Al Adha dates and public holidays in 2025.

What Is Eid Al Adha in the UAE?

Eid Al Adha, often referred to as the “Festival of Sacrifice”, is one of the most important religious holidays observed in the UAE and across the Muslim world. The festival commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.

It marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage, bringing together millions of Muslims in devotion and unity. In the UAE, Eid Al Adha is celebrated with spiritual gatherings, community activities, and generous acts such as charity and animal sacrifice.

The government declares official holidays during this time to allow citizens and residents to fully participate in the religious observances and enjoy time with family and friends.

Key highlights of the celebration include:

Attending the special Eid Al Adha prayer
Sacrificing an animal and distributing the meat
Spending time with family and community
Giving to those in need

This celebration plays a vital role in reinforcing Islamic values and promoting unity in the UAE.

Significance of Eid al Adha

Eid Al Adha holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims. It commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim, who was commanded by God to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience. At the moment of sacrifice, God intervened and replaced the son with a ram, symbolising divine mercy and reward for faith.

This profound act is remembered during Eid Al Adha by the ritual of Qurbani, or animal sacrifice. The meat is then shared among family, friends, and the less fortunate.

For many in the UAE, this occasion is a powerful reminder of devotion, compassion, and community service. It highlights the importance of selflessness and reaffirms the values of charity, equality, and submission to God’s will.

Cultural and Religious Importance

In the UAE, Eid Al Adha is both a cultural celebration and a religious obligation. It reflects the country’s strong Islamic roots while embracing its multicultural diversity. The occasion strengthens social ties, as families gather for meals, prayers, and visits.

The celebration includes:

Preparing traditional Emirati dishes
Dressing in new or traditional attire
Exchanging gifts with loved ones
Donating to charitable causes

For residents, whether Emirati or expatriate, Eid Al Adha is a time of togetherness and generosity. Mosques across the country host special Eid prayers, often held in large open areas or parks to accommodate larger congregations. These traditions make the occasion a national expression of faith and cultural identity in the UAE.

When Is Eid Al Adha in 2025?

Eid Al Adha in 2025 will begin on Friday, June 6, following the confirmed sighting of the Dhu al-Hijjah crescent moon on Tuesday, May 27. This moon sighting marks the beginning of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah and establishes the timing of both Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha.

As per UAE announcements and regional moon sighting reports, the holiday will run from Thursday, June 5 (Arafat Day) through Sunday, June 8, giving residents a four-day weekend. Work will resume on Monday, June 9, unless otherwise adjusted by individual employers.

This timeline aligns with most Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar. However, some regions such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh will observe Eid on Saturday, June 7, due to differences in lunar observations.

Date	Occasion	Day
June 5, 2025	Arafat Day	Thursday
June 6, 2025	Eid Al Adha	Friday
June 7, 2025	Eid Holiday	Saturday
June 8, 2025	Eid Holiday	Sunday
June 9, 2025	Work Resumes	Monday

Expected Eid Al Adha Dates 2025 UAE

The UAE government confirmed Eid Al Adha will be observed starting on Friday, June 6, 2025, with Arafat Day preceding it on Thursday, June 5.

This results in an official four-day holiday that ends on Sunday, June 8. The moon sighting on May 27 established the start of Dhu al-Hijjah on May 28, aligning the Eid schedule with most Gulf countries.

Here is a summary of the expected Eid schedule:

Islamic Date	Gregorian Date	Event
9 Dhu al-Hijjah	June 5, 2025	Arafat Day
10 Dhu al-Hijjah	June 6, 2025	Eid Al Adha
11 Dhu al-Hijjah	June 7, 2025	Eid Celebration
12 Dhu al-Hijjah	June 8, 2025	Final Holiday Day

The announcement allows residents to plan their holidays, book travel, or prepare for religious activities well in advance.

Timeline of Celebrations Based on Lunar Calendar

The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, and thus the timing of Eid Al Adha changes each year. In 2025, the celebration is based on the sighting of the Dhu al-Hijjah crescent moon on May 27, which set the first day of the month on May 28.

Here’s a quick overview of how the festival unfolds:

Day 1 (June 5): Arafat Day observed with fasting and prayer
Day 2 (June 6): Eid Al Adha begins with morning prayers and sacrifices
Day 3 (June 7): Continued celebrations and social visits
Day 4 (June 8): Final day of public holidays

These celebrations are rooted in tradition and vary slightly by region, depending on moon sightings. The UAE follows a unified moon sighting system that aligns with Saudi Arabia to maintain consistency. The lunar calendar ensures that Islamic festivals rotate through the seasons, offering a different experience every year.

What Are the Official Eid Al Adha Holidays in UAE for 2025?

The UAE government has confirmed Eid Al Adha holidays for 2025 from Thursday, June 5 (Arafat Day) to Sunday, June 8, offering a four-day weekend. Both public and private sectors will observe the same break due to the alignment with the weekend.

The Dhu al-Hijjah moon was sighted on May 27, marking the start of the Islamic month on May 28. Work resumes on Monday, June 9, allowing residents time for celebration, travel, and spiritual reflection.

Public vs Private Sector Holidays

In the UAE, Eid Al Adha is recognised as an official public holiday for all employees, with specific entitlements based on the sector you work in.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect for 2025:

Sector	Holiday Start Date	Holiday End Date	Total Days Off	Notes
Public Sector	June 5, 2025	June 8, 2025	4 Days	Full government closure expected; services resume June 9
Private Sector	June 5, 2025	June 8, 2025	4 Days	Mandated by UAE Labour Law Article 29 for full paid public holidays
Retail/Hospitality	Varies	Varies	Rotational	Some businesses remain open; compensatory leave or overtime applies
Schools	June 5, 2025	June 8, 2025	4 Days	Includes weekend; classes resume Monday, June 9

Both sectors benefit equally in 2025 due to Eid aligning with the weekend, simplifying planning for employers and employees.

How Are Eid Al Adha Public Holidays Observed in the UAE?

Eid Al Adha in the UAE is celebrated through spiritual, social, and festive activities. The day typically begins with a special Eid prayer held in mosques and large prayer grounds. Residents dress in traditional or formal attire and gather early to participate in this significant religious ritual.

Following the prayers, many families perform the Qurbani or sacrifice, usually done through authorised slaughterhouses. The meat is distributed among relatives, neighbours, and the underprivileged, reinforcing the value of charity.

As part of the cultural celebrations, you will often find:

Family and friend gatherings
Traditional Emirati meals and desserts
Exchanging of gifts
Acts of kindness and charity

Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi come alive with decorations, fireworks, and organised public events. Shopping malls, parks, and entertainment venues host special programs, while some residents take this time to travel or relax at home.

The government also implements safety and traffic regulations to manage the increased movement during the holidays, ensuring a smooth and safe celebration for everyone.

Prayer Timings and Locations

Eid Al Adha prayers are an essential part of the celebration in the UAE, held early in the morning on the first day of Eid. Mosques and large open spaces, known as musallahs, are designated across all emirates to accommodate the thousands who attend.

The prayer usually begins 15 to 20 minutes after sunrise, and it’s highly recommended that you arrive early to find parking and secure a spot.

Below are the estimated prayer timings across key cities in the UAE:

City	Estimated Prayer Time
Dubai	5:45 AM
Abu Dhabi	5:50 AM
Sharjah	5:44 AM
Ajman	5:43 AM
Fujairah	5:41 AM

You can confirm the final timing with local mosques or through official UAE government portals closer to the day. Community participation in these prayers fosters unity and marks the spiritual start of Eid celebrations.

Celebrations Across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Other Emirates

In cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Eid Al Adha blends tradition with vibrant festivities. Celebrations begin with morning prayers and continue with fireworks, cultural shows, and family gatherings.

Dubai hosts events at places like Global Village and JBR, while Abu Dhabi features community activities and staycation offers. Other emirates, including Sharjah and Ajman, also hold local celebrations and park gatherings. Across the UAE, the atmosphere is joyful, inclusive, and rich in community spirit.

How Does Arafat Day Relate to Eid Al Adha Dates?

Arafat Day plays a crucial role in determining the timing of Eid Al Adha. Falling on the ninth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, it precedes Eid and is observed by Muslims globally with spiritual significance. In 2025, Arafat Day will be on Thursday, June 5, based on the UAE’s official moon sighting, which marked the start of Dhu al-Hijjah on May 28.

Arafat Day is deeply tied to the Hajj pilgrimage, specifically the ritual where pilgrims gather on the Plains of Arafat near Mecca. This event is considered the most important day of Hajj and symbolizes the pinnacle of the pilgrimage experience.

For non-pilgrims in the UAE and around the world, fasting on Arafat Day is highly recommended and is believed to expiate the sins of the previous and coming year. It is also the last opportunity for spiritual reflection before the joyous Eid Al Adha begins.

Islamic Date	Gregorian Date	Occasion
9 Dhu al-Hijjah	June 5, 2025	Arafat Day
10 Dhu al-Hijjah	June 6, 2025	Eid Al Adha

In the UAE, Arafat Day is a public holiday, and many Muslims spend it in mosques or at home in prayer and remembrance. It is a solemn day focused on mercy, humility, and reflection. The significance of this day sets the tone for the sacrifice and celebration of Eid Al Adha that follows it.

Will Schools and Businesses Be Closed During Eid Al Adha 2025?

Yes, schools and businesses in the UAE will be closed during the Eid Al Adha holidays in 2025. The UAE government has announced a public holiday from Thursday, June 5 to Sunday, June 8, providing a four-day weekend. Schools, private offices, and government departments will resume operations on Monday, June 9.

Businesses in essential services like hospitality and retail may remain partially open, but must comply with UAE labour laws for holiday compensation. Schools will plan closures in advance, adjusting their academic calendar to ensure minimal disruption to students and faculty.

Sector	Closed From	Reopens On	Notes
Public Schools	June 5, 2025	June 9, 2025	Included in national holiday
Private Schools	June 5, 2025	June 9, 2025	Follows KHDA guidelines
Offices	June 5, 2025	June 9, 2025	Exceptions for essential businesses
Government Depts.	June 5, 2025	June 9, 2025	Full closure across the UAE

Most schools and businesses benefit from this well-timed break.

While many businesses close during Eid Al Adha, retail outlets, restaurants, and hotels often remain open to accommodate holiday shoppers and tourists. However, these businesses must adhere to UAE Labour Law, offering either paid overtime or compensatory leave to staff working during the holiday.

Retail and service industries typically adjust their operations as follows:

Shortened hours on the first day of Eid
Increased staffing in malls and entertainment areas
Special Eid promotions and events to attract customers

Shopping malls across the UAE host late-night sales and family-friendly activities during the holiday period. Restaurants may offer Eid-themed menus, while hotels launch exclusive staycation deals. Business operations resume their normal hours by Monday, June 9, after the public holiday ends.

How Does the UAE Government Confirm Eid Dates?

In the UAE, the confirmation of Eid Al Adha dates is a carefully coordinated religious and administrative process. The government relies on the moon-sighting method, in line with Islamic tradition, to determine the start of Dhu al-Hijjah, which ultimately sets the date for both Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha.

A national moon-sighting committee is formed prior to each Islamic month’s end. On the 29th of Dhu al-Qa’dah, this committee meets and coordinates with observatories across the country to track the crescent moon.

Here’s how the process typically unfolds:

Astronomers and scholars observe the sky for the new moon
Official declarations are made via WAM and government channels
Public holidays are announced immediately following the moon sighting
Alignment with Gulf countries ensures consistency across the region

The UAE’s moon sighting process combines religious principles with modern astronomy, ensuring accurate and timely announcements for Eid dates. This system helps families and businesses plan ahead confidently.

Moon Sighting Committees and Announcements

The moon sighting committee in the UAE plays a vital role in determining the Islamic calendar dates. Comprised of scholars, astronomers, and government officials, the committee gathers on the 29th day of every Hijri month to look for the crescent moon, also known as the hilal.

For Eid Al Adha, the committee’s focus is on spotting the Dhu al-Hijjah crescent. If the moon is visible, Dhu al-Hijjah begins the next day. If not, the current month continues for 30 days, and Dhu al-Hijjah starts after. This directly impacts when Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha will be observed.

Once the moon is sighted, announcements are made through official platforms, including WAM (Emirates News Agency) and the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. These timely updates provide clarity for holiday plans, work schedules, and religious observances. The committee’s decision aligns with Islamic guidelines and reflects the country’s commitment to preserving religious traditions.

How Can You Plan Ahead for Eid Al Adha in the UAE?

Planning for Eid Al Adha in the UAE is an opportunity to make the most of the extended weekend. Whether you’re interested in spiritual activities, family bonding, or travel, preparing early helps you enjoy the holiday stress-free.

Here’s how you can get started:

Book travel or staycations early to take advantage of long weekend deals
Check prayer times and locate nearby mosques for Eid prayers
Schedule your Qurbani service through authorised slaughterhouses or apps
Look for Eid events and fireworks hosted by malls and local councils
Set aside time for family meals and cultural traditions

Many families also use this time for local getaways to Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, or even neighbouring countries. Booking accommodations and attractions in advance ensures better prices and availability.

Don’t forget to plan your charitable giving and make arrangements to participate in Eid rituals. A little preparation goes a long way in making Eid Al Adha meaningful and memorable.

Travel and Staycation Tips

Eid Al Adha is a peak travel period in the UAE, so planning your trip or staycation early ensures smoother experiences. Many residents take advantage of the long weekend to explore the country or nearby destinations.

Popular staycation ideas include:

Beach resorts in Ras Al Khaimah or Fujairah
Desert escapes with cultural experiences
Luxury hotels in Dubai or Abu Dhabi with Eid offers

If you’re travelling internationally, make sure your documents are updated and double-check visa requirements. Book your tickets at least two weeks in advance to secure better rates.

For local travel, use RTA and public transport updates to avoid peak hour congestion. Whether you’re relaxing or sightseeing, smart planning ensures you enjoy the break without last-minute hassles.

Eid Event Schedules in the Emirates

During Eid Al Adha, cities across the UAE host special events for residents and visitors. These include fireworks, live performances, cultural festivals, and family-friendly entertainment in malls and public venues. The government and local municipalities release schedules in advance to help residents plan their holiday.

Below are some anticipated events and their locations:

City	Event Type	Location
Dubai	Fireworks, Music Shows	Dubai Festival City, JBR
Abu Dhabi	Cultural Exhibits, Theatre	Yas Mall, Louvre Abu Dhabi
Sharjah	Traditional Markets	Al Majaz Waterfront
Ajman	Food Festivals	Ajman Corniche
Ras Al Khaimah	Beach Fireworks	Al Marjan Island

These events offer a chance to experience the spirit of Eid with fun and cultural appreciation. Check official event pages or social media for the most current updates closer to the dates.

Conclusion

Eid Al Adha 2025 is set to be celebrated in the UAE from June 5 to June 8, offering a long weekend filled with faith, reflection, and festivity. Whether you’re attending Eid prayers, participating in charitable acts, or simply enjoying time with loved ones, the occasion offers something meaningful for everyone.

The UAE’s clear announcements and well-coordinated public holiday schedule allow you to plan ahead with confidence. From spiritual observances like Arafat Day to exciting events across the emirates, every aspect of Eid Al Adha is designed to bring communities together.

As you prepare for this special time, take advantage of the opportunities to reconnect, give back, and celebrate your faith or appreciate the culture of the country you live in. Eid Al Adha is more than a break from work—it’s a powerful reminder of compassion, sacrifice, and unity.