Maximize your annual leave in 2025 by aligning it with UAE public holidays and weekends. With smart planning, 18 days of leave can translate into 51 days off.
Public Holidays for 2025
Here’s a snapshot of UAE’s public holidays for 2025:
- New Year’s Day: January 1 (Wednesday)
- Eid Al Fitr: March 31 - April 2 (Monday - Wednesday)
- Arafat Day & Eid Al Adha: May 30 - June 2 (Friday - Monday)
- Islamic New Year: June 27 (Friday)
- Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday: September 1 (Monday)
- Commemoration Day & UAE Union Day: December 2 - 3 (Tuesday - Wednesday)
Note: Islamic holidays depend on lunar phases and are subject to confirmation by the UAE’s Moon Sighting Committee.
Maximizing Your Time Off
Combine your leave days with public holidays and weekends to extend breaks:
- January 1-5: Take 2 leave days (Jan 2-3) for 5 days off.
- March 29 - April 6: Take 2 leave days (April 3-4) for 9 days off during Eid.
- May 30 - June 8: Take 4 leave days (June 3-6) for 10 days off.
- June 21-29: Take 4 leave days (June 23-26) for 9 days off around Islamic New Year.
- August 30 - September 7: Take 4 leave days (Sept 2-5) for 9 days off.
- November 29 - December 7: Take 2 leave days (Dec 4-5) for 9 days off during National Day.
How It Works
This plan leverages UAE’s public holidays, which often align with weekends, to stretch annual leave. Certain holidays (excluding Eid) falling on weekends may shift to weekdays for maximum benefit.
Important Considerations
- Islamic holidays depend on moon sightings and official announcements.
- Local variations may grant additional holidays in some emirates.
- Stay updated with government announcements for final confirmation.
Make 2025 Your Year of Balance
By planning ahead, you can enjoy extended breaks without exhausting your leave, ensuring a perfect balance between work and play.
News Source: Gulf Business
