In the UAE, the next public holiday will celebrate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Occurring on Rabi Al Awwal 12, this event grants residents a one-day holiday.
In 2025, Rabi’ Al Awwal is anticipated to start on either Sunday, August 24, or Monday, August 25, contingent on the moon sighting per the Islamic calendar.
The birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is on the 12th of Rabi’ Al Awwal. If the month begins on August 24, the occasion will be on Thursday, September 4. If it starts on August 25, the birthday will be on Friday, September 5.
Stay informed with the latest updates. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
The UAE Cabinet has declared a one-day public holiday for residents. Should it fall on September 5, a Friday, some employees could enjoy a long weekend, including Saturday and Sunday.
The Hijri (Islamic) calendar relies on lunar phases, with each month beginning with the new moon sighting. The moon sighting committee meets on the 29th of each month to observe the crescent and announce the new Islamic month.
The Hijri year is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year, causing Islamic months to shift earlier annually in the Gregorian calendar.
Can holidays be rescheduled?
A 2025 resolution states that, excluding Eid breaks, holidays may be shifted to the start or end of the week if they coincide with a weekend. This is subject to a UAE Cabinet decision. Local governments in each Emirate may also declare additional holidays if necessary.
