The UAE’s most significant religious holiday is approaching, and employees across the Emirates are eagerly awaiting the official announcement of Eid Al Adha 2025 holiday dates. Based on astronomical calculations and government guidelines, here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming Eid Al Adha holidays in the UAE.
When is Eid Al Adha 2025 in the UAE?
According to the Emirates Astronomy Society’s astronomical calculations, Eid Al Adha 2025 is expected to begin on Friday, June 6, 2025. The four-day public holiday will likely span from Thursday, June 5 (Arafat Day) to Sunday, June 8, 2025.
WhatsApp
Facebook
LinkedIn
Key Dates for Eid Al Adha 2025:
- Arafat Day: Thursday, June 5, 2025
- Eid Al Adha Day 1: Friday, June 6, 2025
- Eid Al Adha Day 2: Saturday, June 7, 2025
- Eid Al Adha Day 3: Sunday, June 8, 2025
Important Note: These dates are based on astronomical predictions. The final confirmation will depend on the official moon sighting by the UAE’s Moon Sighting Committee.
Table of Contents
Official UAE Government Holiday Policy for Eid Al Adha
The UAE government follows a structured approach to declaring Eid Al Adha holidays:
Public Holiday Duration
- Total Days: 4 days (Dhu Al Hijjah 9-12)
- Coverage: Both public and private sectors
- Confirmation: Announced after official moon sighting
Moon Sighting Process
The crescent moon of Dhu Al Hijjah is expected to be visible on May 28, 2025, making it the first day of the Islamic month. However, the UAE authorities will make the official announcement only after the moon sighting committee confirms the visibility.
Read more: UAE Announces New 10-Year Blue Residency Visa: Who Can Apply and How?
UAE Labour Law: Your Rights During Eid Al Adha Holidays
Understanding your employment rights during Eid Al Adha is crucial for both employees and employers in the UAE.
Employee Rights Under UAE Labour Law
According to Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (UAE Labour Law):
Article 29: Public Holiday Compensation
- Employees are entitled to fully paid leave on official public holidays
- If required to work on public holidays, employees must receive either:
- A compensatory day off, OR
- Full salary plus at least 50% additional compensation
Article 28: Annual Leave Extensions
- Employees can request annual leave to extend their Eid break
- Prior approval from employer required
- Employer has the right to approve/reject based on business needs
- Minimum one-month advance notice required from employer if leave is denied
Weekend Policy Changes 2025
Under Resolution No. 27 of 2024, the UAE implemented new weekend holiday rules:
- If Eid falls on a weekend, no additional compensatory days are provided
- This rule specifically applies to regular public holidays but excludes Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha
- The current Eid Al Adha dates (Thursday-Sunday) provide a natural 4-day weekend.
Read more:
- UAE Expands Delivery Worker Protection with 10,000 Air-Conditioned Rest Stations
- Dubai’s AED 20.5B Blue Line Metro to Feature World’s Tallest Station – Route Map, 14 Stops & 2029 Launch Plan
- 29-year-old Kerala Engineer Dies in Scuba Diving Accident at Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach
How to Maximize Your Eid Al Adha 2025 Break
Strategic planning can help you extend your 4-day Eid holiday into a longer vacation:
Option 1: 9-Day Break Strategy
Take leave on: Monday, June 2 – Wednesday, June 4 Result: 9 consecutive days off using only 3 annual leave days
Option 2: 12-Day Extended Holiday
Take leave on: Monday, June 9 – Friday, June 13, plus Monday, June 16 Result: 12 days off from June 5-16 using 6 annual leave days
Option 3: 15-Day Maximum Break
Take leave from: Monday, June 2 – Monday, June 16 Result: 15 days off using only 9 annual leave days (weekends and public holidays included)
Regional Comparison: GCC Eid Al Adha Holidays 2025
Kuwait
- Holiday Period: June 5-9, 2025 (5 days)
- Back to work: Tuesday, June 10
Qatar
- Holiday Period: June 5-9, 2025 (5 days)
- Approved by: Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani
Oman
- Holiday Period: June 5-9, 2025 (5 days)
- Based on: Royal Decree No. 88/2022
Saudi Arabia
- Saudi Exchange closure: June 5-10, 2025 (6 days)
- Trading resumes: Wednesday, June 11
Read more: UAE Labour Department Contact Numbers & Labour Dispute Resolution
Understanding Eid Al Adha: Religious Significance
Eid Al Adha, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. Key aspects include:
- Religious importance: Second major Islamic festival after Eid Al Fitr
- Hajj connection: Coincides with the culmination of Hajj pilgrimage
- Traditional practices: Prayer, charitable giving, family gatherings, and ritual sacrifice
- Community focus: Sharing meat with family, friends, and those in need
Travel Planning Tips for Eid Al Adha 2025
With the 4-day weekend falling in early June, consider these travel planning aspects:
Popular Destinations from UAE:
- Regional: Oman, Jordan, Turkey (under 5-hour flights)
- International: Europe, Asia, Africa
- Domestic: Staycations in UAE resorts and attractions
Booking Recommendations:
- Wait for confirmation: Hold off on non-refundable bookings until official dates announced
- Consider flexibility: Book refundable options or travel insurance
- Plan early: Popular destinations fill up quickly during Eid periods
Read more: How to Check UAE Visa Status and Validity Online in 2025
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the official Eid Al Adha 2025 dates be announced?
The UAE government typically announces official dates 1-2 days after the moon sighting, which is expected around May 27-28, 2025.
Do I get extra days off if Eid falls on the weekend?
No, under Resolution No. 27 of 2024, weekend overlaps don’t provide additional compensatory days. However, this doesn’t affect the 4-day Eid Al Adha holiday structure.
Can my employer refuse my annual leave request during Eid?
Yes, employers have the right to approve or deny leave requests based on business needs, but they must provide one month’s advance notice if denying leave.
What if I’m required to work during Eid Al Adha?
You’re entitled to either a compensatory day off or your regular salary plus 50% additional compensation for working on the public holiday.
Are part-time employees entitled to Eid holidays?
Yes, all employees in the UAE, including part-time workers, are entitled to public holiday benefits as per UAE Labour Law.
Can I carry forward unused annual leave to extend Eid holidays?
Annual leave carryover policies vary by company. Check with your HR department about carrying forward unused leave from the previous year.
What happens if the moon sighting changes the expected dates?
If the moon isn’t sighted on the expected date, Eid could shift by one day. This is why it’s recommended to wait for official confirmation before making travel bookings.
Are domestic workers entitled to Eid Al Adha holidays?
Yes, domestic workers are covered under UAE Labour Law and are entitled to public holiday benefits, though specific arrangements should be agreed upon with employers.
Eid Al Adha 2025 promises to provide UAE residents with a well-deserved 4-day break in early June. While the exact dates await official confirmation through moon sighting, employees and employers should start planning now to make the most of this significant holiday period.
Remember to check with your HR department, follow company policies, and stay updated with official announcements from the UAE government and MOHRE for the most accurate information.
Eid Al Adha is not just a time of celebration—it’s an opportunity to plan wisely, understand your rights, and spend quality time with loved ones. Follow us for timely updates on UAE labor law, public holidays, and HR practices.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. For specific employment matters, consult with qualified legal professionals or your company’s HR department.
External Resources:
Pingback: Abu Dhabi To Dubai In 50 Minutes? Etihad Rail's 2025 Game-Changer Will Shock UAE Commuters! - UAE Labour News