Abu Dhabi – The United Arab Emirates has officially announced that Friday, June 27, 2025, will be a public holiday in observance of the Hijri New Year, also known as Islamic New Year. The announcement was made by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), applying to all employees in both the public and private sectors.
The announcement is based on astronomical calculations indicating the beginning of Muharram 1447 AH, the first month of the Islamic calendar. Although confirmation via the moon-sighting committee will follow, the government has pre-designated the date to ensure clarity and planning ease for institutions and the public.
Understanding the UAE Hijri New Year Holiday
The UAE Hijri New Year holiday marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. The calendar begins with the month of Muharram, in commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad’s migration (Hijrah) from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This migration represents the start of the Islamic calendar and is a foundational event in Islamic history.
Although the Islamic New Year is not celebrated with the same level of festivities as Eid Al Fitr or Eid Al Adha, it is still observed as an official public holiday in the UAE, giving residents a moment to reflect on spiritual growth and renewal.
Significance of the Hijrah in Islam
The Hijrah was not merely a change in geographical location. It was a movement that established the first Islamic state, emphasized the values of community, unity, and resilience, and provided Muslims a haven to practice their religion freely. It also signified the beginning of Islamic governance and civil society based on principles of justice and equality.
The Hijri calendar, unlike the Gregorian calendar, is based purely on the lunar cycle. Each month starts with the sighting of the new moon, and thus dates shift approximately 10–11 days earlier each year in the solar calendar.
Who Is Affected by the Holiday?
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Public Sector: All government ministries, federal agencies, and public institutions will be closed on June 27.
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Private Sector: Businesses, banks, and commercial establishments will also observe the holiday, depending on UAE Labour Law and specific contracts.
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Schools and Universities: Most educational institutions are expected to observe the break as well.
This one-day holiday offers a short reprieve near the end of June, allowing citizens and residents to spend time with their families, engage in spiritual activities, or simply rest and recharge.
Next Religious Holiday: Mawlid Al Nabawi
Following the Hijri New Year, the next anticipated religious holiday is Mawlid Al Nabawi, or the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, expected to be observed on Thursday, September 4, 2025. Like the Islamic New Year, Mawlid is also a significant day in the Islamic world and is officially marked by a public holiday in the UAE.
Holiday Calendar – Remaining Religious Holidays in UAE for 2025
Here is a list of the remaining major holidays for 2025:
| Holiday | Gregorian Date | Islamic Date |
|---|---|---|
| Hijri New Year | Friday, June 27, 2025 | 1 Muharram 1447 AH |
| Mawlid Al Nabawi | Thursday, September 4, 2025 | 12 Rabi’ al-Awwal 1447 AH |
| Commemoration Day | Monday, December 1, 2025 | National Observance |
| UAE National Day | Tuesday–Wednesday, December 2–3, 2025 | National Observance |
Public Reactions to the Hijri New Year Holiday
Residents across the UAE have expressed appreciation for the clarity and advance notice of the Hijri New Year holiday. For many families, it’s a welcome break and an opportunity to engage in religious reflection, visit extended relatives, or travel locally.
Retail outlets and entertainment venues often experience an uptick in activity on such holidays, though the Islamic New Year remains more solemn and introspective in nature.
How Is the Islamic New Year Observed in the UAE?
While it is a public holiday, Islamic New Year in the UAE is generally observed with a quiet reverence. Common traditions include:
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Attending prayers at local mosques
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Reciting Quranic verses or Duas (supplications)
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Giving charity to the less fortunate
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Spending time with family in a reflective atmosphere
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Avoiding loud festivities or celebratory gatherings
Historical Context of the Hijrah
The Hijrah was a pivotal turning point in Islamic history. After years of persecution in Mecca, the Prophet Muhammad and his followers were invited to settle in Yathrib (Medina), where they were able to establish a flourishing community grounded in justice, tolerance, and faith.
The migration was so significant that the second Caliph of Islam, Umar ibn Al-Khattab, established the Islamic calendar beginning from the year of the Hijrah—known as 1 AH (Anno Hegirae).
Astronomical and Religious Confirmation
While the holiday has been announced based on astronomical projections, the official start of Muharram will still depend on the UAE Moon Sighting Committee, which convenes to observe the crescent moon.
In most years, the committee meets the night before the expected date. If the moon is not sighted, the month of Dhu al-Hijjah may be extended to 30 days, and Muharram would begin a day later.
Impact on Business and Operations
While a one-day holiday may not cause major disruptions, businesses should:
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Plan payroll and HR deadlines accordingly
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Adjust delivery schedules or staffing needs for the long weekend
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Inform clients and partners in advance of closures
For individuals, this is a good time to renew official documents, make payments, or complete pending government tasks ahead of the holiday.
A Moment of Spiritual Reset
Many residents consider the Islamic New Year as an opportunity for personal reflection. Just as Gregorian New Year brings resolutions and planning, Muharram is seen by many Muslims as a chance to evaluate one’s spiritual journey, reset intentions, and seek growth in the year ahead.
Religious scholars in the UAE often give sermons encouraging people to start the new year with positive habits, prayer, and community engagement.
Summary: UAE Hijri New Year Holiday in 2025
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What? One-day public holiday for the Islamic New Year
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When? Friday, June 27, 2025
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Who announced it? Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR)
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Applies to? All public and private sector employees
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Next holiday? Mawlid Al Nabawi – Thursday, September 4, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the Hijri New Year a public holiday in the UAE?
A: Yes, the UAE observes it as a one-day holiday for both the public and private sectors.
Q: Why is Hijri New Year important?
A: It marks the Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina and the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
Q: When is the next religious holiday after Hijri New Year?
A: Mawlid Al Nabawi is expected on Thursday, September 4, 2025.
Q: Will schools and banks be closed?
A: Yes, most government services, schools, and banks will close for the holiday.
Q: Does the holiday depend on moon sighting?
A: Yes, while the date has been announced, final confirmation will come after the official moon sighting.
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