Will Eid Al Adha 2025 fall on a weekend in the UAE? Here’s what to expect

Dubai: Eid Al Adha, one of the most significant holidays in the Islamic calendar, is approaching and many UAE residents are already planning ahead. According to the UAE’s official public holiday calendar, the break for Eid Al Adha will span four days. But with the expected dates, will it overlap with the weekend?

Eid Al Adha is projected to begin on Friday, June 6 2025, based on astronomical calculations released by the Emirates Astronomy Society. The public holiday period is expected to start with Arafah Day on Thursday, June 5, followed by Eid Al Adha celebrations on Friday, Saturday and Sunday ( June 6 to 8).

This would mean that the four-day break will coincide with the weekend for many employees in the UAE, where the standard weekend falls on Saturday and Sunday.

While these dates are based on astronomical predictions, the final confirmation depends on the official moon sighting closer to the time. As with all Islamic holidays, UAE authorities will make a formal announcement once the new moon is sighted, marking the beginning of Dhu Al Hijjah, the 12th month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

In May 2024, the UAE Cabinet issued Resolution No. 27 of 2024, which outlines the public holiday schedule for both the public and private sectors in 2025. According to Article No. 3 of the resolution, public holidays that fall on weekends will not be moved or carried forward to a weekday.

Therefore, even if some of the Eid Al Adha break overlaps with the weekend, no additional weekdays off will be provided in lieu. The holiday will remain fixed as per the official calendar once confirmed.

If the predicted dates hold true, UAE residents can expect a four-day break from Thursday to Sunday, offering an extended weekend for travel, family gatherings, or religious observance. However, it's important to stay updated with official announcements closer to the date for final confirmation.