Eid Al Adha in UAE: Likely date revealed

Dubai: Eid Al Adha is expected to fall on Friday, June 6, 2025, in the UAE, based on astronomical calculations.

According to Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors at the Emirates Astronomical Society, Wednesday, May 28, is likely to mark the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah. Therefore, Eid Al Adha is likely to fall on Friday, June 6.

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.

Eid Al Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice”, commemorates the Qur’anic account of Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. Before the sacrifice could take place, God provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. This act of devotion and faith is remembered and honoured by Muslims around the world.

The festival coincides with the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca and is observed with prayers, charitable giving, family gatherings, and the ritual sacrifice of livestock, such as sheep or goats. The meat is then shared among family, friends, and those in need.

Based on current astronomical calculations, Arafat Day in the UAE is likely to occur on Thursday, June 5, 2025. However, the final date will be officially announced by UAE authorities following the moon sighting.

Arafat Day is observed as a public holiday in the UAE. It falls on the ninth day of Dhu Al Hijjah in the Islamic lunar calendar. The exact date is determined based on the sighting of the crescent moon and is confirmed by the UAE's official moon-sighting committee closer to the occasion.