Category: UAE

The UAE has confirmed that Eid Al-Adha 2025 holidays will begin on Thursday, June 5, and extend through Sunday, June 8, according to astronomical calculations released by the Emirates Astronomical Society. The four-day break for both public and private sector workers coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage period in Saudi Arabia.

Key Details of the Holiday Announcement

1. Official Holiday Period

• Arafat Day: Thursday, June 5 (Dhul Hijjah 9)
• Eid Al-Adha: Friday, June 6 – Sunday, June 8 (Dhul Hijjah 10-12)
• Total Duration: 4 days (with potential extension pending moon sighting)

2. Expected Economic Impact

✔ Tourism surge: Dubai airports preparing for 1.8M+ travelers
✔ Retail boom: Malls extending hours for Eid shopping festivals
✔ Hospitality sector: 85% hotel occupancy projected

3. Moon Sighting Protocol

• UAE Moon Sighting Committee to convene evening of June 3
• Potential 1-day variance if crescent spotted earlier/later

Comparison to Previous Years

• 2024: 4-day break (June 16-19)
• 2025: Longer weekend due to June 5-8 alignment
• 2026: Expected 5-day break (May 25-29)

Frequently Asked Questions about the UAE’s announced (or expected) Eid Al-Adha 2025 holiday dates:

1. Has the UAE officially announced the Eid Al-Adha 2025 holiday dates? While astronomical calculations strongly suggest the dates, the official announcement will come from the UAE’s Moon-sighting committee closer to the time.
2. Based on predictions, when is Arafat Day expected to fall in the UAE in 2025? Astronomical predictions indicate Arafat Day will likely be on Thursday, June 5, 2025.
3. Based on predictions, when is the first day of Eid Al-Adha expected in the UAE in 2025? The first day of Eid Al-Adha is likely to be on Friday, June 6, 2025, based on astronomical calculations.
4. How long is the expected Eid Al-Adha holiday in the UAE for 2025? Based on current predictions, the public holiday is expected to be four days, starting with Arafat Day on Thursday, June 5th, and continuing through the weekend (Friday, June 6th to Sunday, June 8th).
5. Will the public and private sectors have the same Eid Al-Adha holidays in the UAE in 2025? Yes, according to reports, both the public and private sectors are expected to observe the same holidays for Arafat Day and Eid Al-Adha.
6. Why do the Eid Al-Adha dates change each year in the Gregorian calendar? Eid Al-Adha is fixed in the Islamic lunar calendar, which is about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian (solar) calendar, causing the Gregorian dates to shift each year.
7. Is the expected Eid Al-Adha 2025 holiday longer or shorter than usual for schools in the UAE? Reports suggest that schools might get less time off than usual because the holiday falls over a weekend, reducing the number of actual school days off.
8. What are the religious significances of Arafat Day and Eid Al-Adha? Arafat Day is a holy day of prayer and reflection preceding Eid. Eid Al-Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son.
9. Will there be a moon sighting to confirm the exact dates? Yes, the official confirmation of the Eid Al-Adha dates depends on the sighting of the crescent moon by the UAE’s Moon-sighting committee.
10. Could the predicted dates for Eid Al-Adha 2025 change? Yes, the final dates are subject to the official moon sighting, which may differ slightly from astronomical predictions.
11. Are there any other public holidays expected in the UAE in June 2025? Yes, the Islamic New Year is expected to fall on Thursday, June 26, 2025.
12. How many total public holidays are expected in the UAE in 2025? Current predictions suggest there will be around 12-14 public holidays in the UAE throughout 2025, including Eid Al-Adha.
13. Will employees be compensated if Eid Al-Adha falls on a weekend? According to a recent UAE Cabinet Resolution, public holidays falling on a weekend may be moved, but this does not apply to Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha.
14. What is the Islamic month in which Eid Al-Adha falls? Eid Al-Adha is celebrated in Dhu Al-Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
15. What is the expected start date of Dhu Al-Hijjah in 2025? Astronomical calculations suggest the first day of Dhu Al-Hijjah will likely be Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
16. Are other GCC countries expected to have similar Eid Al-Adha holiday dates? Yes, many GCC countries like Qatar and Oman are also expecting Eid Al-Adha to begin around Friday, June 6, 2025, with Arafat Day on Thursday, June 5th.
17. Will the UAE government issue an official announcement of the Eid Al-Adha holidays? Yes, the UAE authorities will issue a formal announcement once the crescent moon is sighted.
18. What activities are typically associated with Eid Al-Adha celebrations in the UAE? Celebrations include congregational prayers, family gatherings, festive meals, and the act of Qurbani (sacrifice of livestock).
19. Will schools have their summer break immediately after the Eid Al-Adha holidays? For most UAE international private schools, Term 3 runs until late June or early July, so the summer break will likely follow a few weeks after the Eid holidays.

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In a bid to strengthen cultural awareness and promote historical education among students, the Sharjah Public Library (SPL) welcomed 45 Arabist students for an extensive exploration of the emirate’s heritage. The initiative, designed to immerse participants in Sharjah’s historical and cultural legacy, provided them with firsthand experiences of traditional Emirati customs, architecture, and knowledge-sharing practices.

This educational tour is part of Sharjah’s long-standing commitment to preserving and promoting its identity, ensuring that younger generations remain connected to the region’s rich history. Over the years, Sharjah has been recognized for its cultural initiatives, often hailed as the “Cultural Capital of the UAE.” By engaging students in such interactive experiences, the emirate continues to bridge the past and the future, maintaining its status as a global center for knowledge and heritage.

An In-Depth Cultural and Educational Journey

The 45 Arabist students embarked on a carefully curated tour designed to highlight Sharjah’s role as a guardian of Arab heritage. This program focused on a combination of historical, artistic, and scientific insights, taking students across key cultural sites that reflect the emirate’s unwavering dedication to education and preservation.

Some of the main attractions included in the visit were:

1. Sharjah Heritage Museum

One of the main stops on the tour was the Sharjah Heritage Museum, an institution that was established in 2003 and expanded in 2021. The museum houses an impressive collection of historical artifacts, traditional crafts, and exhibits showcasing Emirati customs and lifestyles from the past centuries.

Students explored sections covering:

• Traditional Emirati clothing and accessories, highlighting how fashion and jewelry played a role in the region’s history.
• Oral traditions and folklore, demonstrating how poetry and storytelling shaped the culture.
• A section dedicated to daily life in old Sharjah, offering insights into how families lived, worked, and interacted.

By visiting this museum, students were able to step back in time and experience the essence of Emirati traditions through well-preserved relics and interactive displays.

2. The Heart of Sharjah – A Living Time Capsule

Another major highlight of the visit was The Heart of Sharjah, an ambitious heritage preservation project managed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). This historical district stands as a time capsule, featuring restored souks, traditional homes, and ancient landmarks that date back to the early days of the emirate.

Students explored:

• Reconstructed traditional Emirati homes, learning about architectural methods that helped people withstand the extreme desert climate.
• The historic souks and trading routes, emphasizing Sharjah’s role as a major trade hub in the region for centuries.
• Old watchtowers and fortresses, symbolizing Sharjah’s strategic importance in the past.

Through their experience at the Heart of Sharjah, the students gained a deeper appreciation for the city’s past and its connection to modern Emirati identity.

3. Sharjah Center for Astronomy and Space Sciences (SCASS)

In addition to history, the students were also introduced to Sharjah’s contributions to science and innovation. The Sharjah Center for Astronomy and Space Sciences (SCASS), established in 2015, is one of the most advanced space research centers in the region.

At SCASS, students explored:

• Astronomical research exhibits, learning about the contributions of Arab scholars to early space science.
• Interactive space models, demonstrating the UAE’s growing role in space exploration.
• Workshops on celestial navigation, a skill that was once essential for early Arab traders and sailors.

This part of the journey helped students understand that Sharjah is not just about preserving history—it is also deeply invested in pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery and education.

Sharjah’s Ongoing Commitment to Heritage and Education

The Sharjah Public Library’s initiative to host Arabist students is part of a larger effort by the emirate to foster multicultural education and heritage conservation. Over the years, Sharjah has built a reputation as a leading center for education, art, and historical preservation.

Sharjah has taken multiple steps to ensure that cultural learning remains accessible, such as:

• Expanding libraries and knowledge centers across the UAE.
• Hosting annual heritage festivals that bring together scholars and artists from around the world.
• Investing in cultural exchange programs, like this initiative, to introduce more people to Sharjah’s historic significance.

A key component of Sharjah’s heritage policy is the inclusion of non-nationals in cultural experiences. By involving foreign students, the emirate is expanding the definition of national identity beyond citizenship, making history and tradition something that all visitors can connect with and appreciate.

Impact on Students and the Future of Cultural Education

The response from students who participated in this program was overwhelmingly positive. Many of them expressed gratitude for the opportunity to experience Sharjah’s history firsthand rather than just reading about it in textbooks.

One of the participating students, Ahmed Al-Rawi, shared his experience:
“I have always been interested in Arab history, but this visit made me realize how much of it is still alive today. Seeing these historical places and learning from experts has made me more connected to my own culture.”

Several students also mentioned that they were inspired to pursue further studies in areas such as history, archaeology, and cultural studies after their visit.

Sharjah Public Library and other educational institutions are expected to continue offering similar programs, welcoming more students and scholars in the coming months.

Why Sharjah Stands Out as a Cultural Capital

Sharjah’s approach to cultural education is unique compared to other cities in the UAE. While places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi focus on modernity and innovation, Sharjah prioritizes cultural preservation alongside progress.

A few factors that make Sharjah a standout hub for heritage and knowledge include:

• Its dedication to literature and the arts (Sharjah was named the UNESCO World Book Capital in 2019).
• The presence of numerous museums, galleries, and research institutions.
• Its status as a bridge between the past and the future, balancing tradition with modern developments.

Conclusion: Sharjah’s Vision for the Future

As Sharjah continues to evolve, its commitment to heritage preservation remains stronger than ever. Programs like the Arabist student visit play a vital role in ensuring that the next generation values the historical foundations upon which the modern UAE was built.

By hosting initiatives like this, Sharjah Public Library and other cultural institutions are actively contributing to the growth of knowledge, education, and identity formation.

As the world becomes more digital, Sharjah’s dedication to preserving its past serves as a model for other cities looking to find a balance between innovation and tradition. The legacy of Sharjah’s culture and history is not just something to be remembered; it is something to be experienced, shared, and carried forward into the future.

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Dubai, UAE – The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has officially announced the Eid Al Fitr holiday for private sector employees in the UAE. The holiday will begin on Sunday, March 30, 2025, and extend until Tuesday, April 1, 2025, with the possibility of an additional day off if Ramadan concludes on its 30th day. This announcement ensures that private sector workers can join their public sector counterparts in celebrating one of the most significant Islamic holidays.

Holiday Duration and Conditions

The MoHRE has outlined the following details for the Eid Al Fitr holiday:

1. Standard Holiday:
   • Sunday, March 30, 2025, to Tuesday, April 1, 2025 (3 days).
2. Extended Holiday (if Ramadan lasts 30 days):
   • The holiday will be extended to Wednesday, April 2, 2025 (4 days).

The final confirmation of the holiday duration will depend on the sighting of the moon, which determines the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal, the month of Eid Al Fitr.

Significance of Eid Al Fitr

Eid Al Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims worldwide. The holiday is celebrated with special prayers, family gatherings, feasts, and acts of charity, embodying the values of gratitude, unity, and generosity.

“Eid Al Fitr is a time to celebrate the blessings of Ramadan and strengthen the bonds of community,” said Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. “We wish everyone a joyous and peaceful Eid.”

Implications for Private Sector Employees

The announcement ensures that private sector employees receive a paid holiday during Eid Al Fitr, aligning with the public sector holiday. Key points for employees include:

1. Payroll:
   Employees will receive their full salaries for the holiday period, as per UAE labor laws.
2. Overtime:
   Those required to work during the holiday will be entitled to overtime pay or compensatory leave, in accordance with their employment contracts.
3. Flexibility:
   Companies are encouraged to accommodate employees’ needs, allowing them to spend quality time with their families.

Impact on Businesses and Economy

While the holiday is a time for celebration, it also has implications for businesses and the economy. Many companies will temporarily close or operate with reduced staff, while sectors such as retail, hospitality, and tourism are expected to see increased activity.

“Eid Al Fitr is a peak period for shopping, dining, and entertainment,” said Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment. “We anticipate a surge in visitors and sales as residents and tourists celebrate the occasion.”

Community Celebrations and Events

The UAE is renowned for its vibrant Eid celebrations, and this year will be no exception. Key events and activities include:

1. Eid Prayers:
   Special prayers will be held at mosques and open prayer grounds across the UAE, with strict safety measures in place.
2. Fireworks Displays:
   Spectacular fireworks shows are planned in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, attracting thousands of spectators.
3. Family Festivals:
   Malls, parks, and cultural centers will host family-friendly events, including live performances, traditional music, and children’s activities.
4. Charity Initiatives:
   Many organizations will launch campaigns to support underprivileged communities, reflecting the spirit of giving that defines Eid Al Fitr.

Travel and Tourism

The extended holiday is expected to boost domestic and international travel, with many residents taking short trips to nearby destinations. Airlines and travel agencies have reported a surge in bookings, particularly to popular destinations such as Oman, Georgia, and Turkey.

“Eid Al Fitr is a peak travel period, and we’ve seen a significant increase in demand for flights and holiday packages,” said Adel Al Redha, Chief Operating Officer of Emirates Airlines.

A Message of Unity and Gratitude

The announcement of the Eid Al Fitr holiday underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect for all cultures and religions. As the country continues to thrive as a global hub, it remains a place where traditions are celebrated, and communities come together.

“Eid Al Fitr is a time to reflect on our blessings and strengthen the bonds that unite us,” said Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs. “We wish everyone a happy and safe celebration.”

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