The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially declared Friday, June 27, 2025, as a public holiday for both public and private sectors in celebration of the Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year. As the UAE continues to balance its cultural heritage with modern governance, this announcement highlights the country’s continued commitment to honoring Islamic traditions while aligning them with practical public administration.
This day will mark the beginning of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, and signifies the start of the year 1447 AH (Anno Hegirae). While it may not be as festive as Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha, the Hijri New Year is a significant moment of spiritual reflection for Muslims across the country and around the world.
What Is the Hijri New Year?
The Hijri New Year (or Islamic New Year) marks the migration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina—a pivotal event known as the Hijrah. This moment became the starting point for the Islamic lunar calendar, which consists of 12 months and 354 or 355 days, unlike the Gregorian solar calendar.
The month of Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam, during which warfare is traditionally forbidden. It is considered a deeply spiritual time, and Muslims often engage in fasting, prayer, and personal reflection.
▶️ Islamic calendar
▶️ Hijrah
▶️ Muharram
The UAE’s Role in Islamic Observances
The United Arab Emirates, known for its cultural pluralism and tolerance, regularly acknowledges and celebrates Islamic events through designated public holidays. In the case of the Hijri New Year, the announcement of a holiday is not merely procedural—it’s a reflection of the country’s respect for Islamic tradition and values.
The UAE government, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, ensures that national holidays such as the Hijri New Year, Eid, and Mawlid al-Nabi are publicly recognized and equitably distributed across both public and private sectors.
▶️ United Arab Emirates
▶️ Abu Dhabi
When Is the Islamic New Year in 2025?
Since the Islamic calendar is based on lunar sightings, the actual date of 1 Muharram 1447 AH can shift depending on when the crescent moon is visible. However, astronomers predict that June 26, 2025, will be the likely date for Muharram 1, and the UAE has set the public holiday for Friday, June 27, giving citizens a long weekend to enjoy the occasion.
This follows a long-standing practice of adjusting public holidays based on official moon sightings conducted by Islamic authorities. Once the new moon is confirmed, the holiday is formally observed.
How Muslims Observe the Hijri New Year
Unlike the Gregorian New Year, which is typically marked with fireworks and global celebrations, the Islamic New Year is more subdued and spiritual in nature. Here’s how it is typically observed:
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Attending mosque prayers that commemorate the Hijrah
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Reading and reflecting on Islamic history and the life of the Prophet Muhammad
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Fasting, particularly on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura
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Acts of charity and community service
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Spending quiet time with family for introspection and gratitude
▶️ Prophet Muhammad
▶️ Ashura
Cultural Significance of the Holiday in the UAE
The announcement of this holiday serves several purposes:
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Spiritual Unity – It reminds the diverse population of the UAE of their shared Islamic roots and history.
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Work-Life Balance – By providing a public holiday, employees in both government and private sectors are given the time to rest, reflect, and spend quality time with their families.
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Cultural Continuity – Observing Hijri New Year formally helps preserve and reinforce Islamic traditions in a modern, fast-paced society.
UAE Public Holidays 2025 Overview
The Hijri New Year is just one of several important holidays in the UAE calendar. Others include:
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Eid al-Fitr
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Eid al-Adha
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Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday)
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Commemoration Day
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UAE National Day
▶️ Eid al-Fitr
▶️ Eid al-Adha
▶️ Mawlid
▶️ Commemoration Day
▶️ National Day (UAE)
Impact on Businesses and Residents
As with all public holidays, the Hijri New Year holiday affects:
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Banking services (limited hours or closures)
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Public transport (some adjustments in scheduling)
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Retail outlets (often remain open, but hours may vary)
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Tourism and hospitality sectors (may see a surge in weekend travel within the UAE)
For residents, this holiday offers a rare summer break—ideal for a staycation or a quiet family retreat.
Leadership and National Identity
This holiday also reinforces the legacy of UAE leaders, particularly the President of the UAE, currently Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the Vice President and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Their efforts to maintain a strong balance between tradition and progress are reflected in national holiday observances like this.
▶️ Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
▶️ Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Conclusion: Honoring the Past While Embracing the Future
The UAE’s declaration of June 27, 2025, as a public holiday for the Hijri New Year isn’t just a day off—it is a reflection of the nation’s commitment to spiritual values, cultural preservation, and national identity. As the country continues to grow into a hub of global innovation, its respect for Islamic tradition remains a guiding pillar of its society.
This long weekend not only allows citizens and residents to recharge but also to reconnect with the foundational narratives of Islam that continue to shape the moral and cultural fabric of the UAE.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a local, an expat, or a tourist in the UAE, the Hijri New Year 2025 offers a unique opportunity to witness the quiet dignity of Islamic observance in one of the most modern nations in the world.
Let us all take a moment to reflect, reset, and look ahead to the journey of 1447 AH with renewed faith and purpose.
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