UAE residents are set to enjoy up to five days off for Eid Al Fitr 2025, marking the first extended public holiday of the year. The break will depend on the sighting of the crescent moon, which determines the end of Ramadan.
Expected Holiday Dates
Eid Al Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, following the completion of Ramadan, which lasts either 29 or 30 days based on moon sighting.
The UAE’s moon-sighting committee will convene on Saturday, March 29 (Ramadan 29) to confirm the start of Eid.
- If the crescent moon is sighted on March 29: Ramadan will end at 29 days, and the holiday will be from Sunday, March 30, to Tuesday, April 1. Including the preceding Saturday-Sunday weekend, residents will enjoy a four-day break.
- If the crescent moon is not sighted: Ramadan will last 30 days, and the holiday will extend from Sunday, March 30 (Ramadan 30) to Wednesday, April 2. Combined with the preceding weekend, this would result in a five-day holiday.
Astronomical Predictions
According to the Dubai Astronomy Group, Ramadan is likely to last 30 days, making it highly probable that residents will get a five-day holiday, with Eid Al Fitr expected to begin on Monday, March 31.
Moon-Sighting Participation
The Dubai Astronomy Group encourages residents to take part in the traditional moon-sighting process by looking towards the western horizon at sunset using telescopes or binoculars. If they spot the crescent, they can report their observation to local authorities.
The official confirmation of Eid Al Fitr holiday dates will be announced on March 29 by the UAE moon-sighting committee.
News Source: Khaleej Times
