Why the July Holiday UAE Matters to Every Expat, HR, and Traveler
Ever notice how the July holiday in the UAE keeps shifting, almost like a mirage across the desert? Because the dates come from a lunar calendar, a holiday that lands on a Saturday in 2024 could land on a Wednesday in 2025. We’re here to keep your calendar steady so you can plan work, travel, and family time without surprises.
Current‑Year Public Holidays (2025)
| Holiday | Date | Day of Week | Brief Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eid Al Fitr | 29 Jul 2025 – 2 Aug 2025 | Saturday – Tuesday | Islamic festival marking the end of Ramadan; 4‑day public holiday. |
| Arafah Day & Eid Al Adha | 9 Aug 2025 – 12 Aug 2025 | Wednesday – Saturday | Arafah Day (9 Aug) and Eid Al Adha (10‑12 Aug); 4‑day holiday. |
| Hijri New Year | 13 Aug 2025 | Sunday | First day of the Islamic lunar year (1 Muharram). |
| Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday | 12 Sep 2025 | Monday | Celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. |
| National Day | 2 Dec 2025 – 3 Dec 2025 | Thursday – Friday | Marks the founding of the UAE; 2‑day public holiday. |
Islamic holidays are announced a few weeks before they start, based on moon‑sighting. That means the dates can shift by a day, so we recommend checking the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation website each month.
Upcoming Years (2026)
| Year | Key Holiday | Date(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Eid Al Fitr | 18 Jul 2026 – 21 Jul 2026 | Saturday – Tuesday |
| 2026 | Arafah Day & Eid Al Adha | 28 Jul 2026 – 31 Jul 2026 | Thursday – Sunday |
| 2026 | Hijri New Year | 2 Aug 2026 | Monday |
| 2026 | Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday | 2 Sep 2026 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | National Day | 1 Dec 2026 – 2 Dec 2026 | Saturday – Sunday |
These provisional dates come from Timeout Dubai and Gulf News, but always verify once the official announcement is live.
Emirate‑Specific Nuances
Dubai, for instance, may extend the National Day holiday by an extra day to accommodate local businesses. Other emirates, like Abu Dhabi, observe the same federal holidays but add their own cultural observances. Knowing these nuances helps HR teams avoid payroll gaps and keeps travelers on schedule.
Practical Tips for HR & Travelers
- Align payroll with the official list; employees receive paid leave for each public holiday.
- Plan staffing for reduced workforce on major holidays; flexible work can keep productivity steady.
- Notify clients via email, website, and social media about closures or altered delivery windows.
- Stay compliant across emirates; non‑compliance can trigger fines.
- Leverage marketing: launch Eid‑or‑National‑Day themed campaigns to boost engagement.
Check the UAE workweek for how the workweek aligns with holidays, and refer to our guide on school holiday schedules for student planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the policy on paid leave during public holidays?
A: Employees are entitled to paid leave on all federal public holidays. If a holiday falls on a weekend, the employer may provide a compensatory day off.
Q: Do schools close on public holidays?
A: Yes, schools typically close on all federal public holidays. Some schools may also observe additional emirate‑specific holidays.
Q: How are holidays announced for the next year?
A: The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation publishes the official holiday calendar a few weeks before the year starts. Check their website or official gazette for the most accurate dates.
Call to Action
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest holiday updates and stay ahead of the holiday curve.
july holiday uae: 2025 Public Holidays Calendar
Looking for the July holiday UAE? This table shows the most up-to-date 2025 calendar so you can plan work, travel, and family time without surprises.
2025 UAE Public Holidays
| Holiday | Date | Day of Week | Brief Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year Day | 1 Jan 2025 | Wednesday | Gregorian New Year, first day of the civil calendar. |
| Eid Al Fitr | 29 Jul 2025 – 2 Aug 2025 | Saturday – Tuesday | Islamic festival marking the end of Ramadan; 4‑day public holiday. |
| Arafah Day & Eid Al Adha | 9 Aug 2025 – 12 Aug 2025 | Wednesday – Saturday | Arafah Day (9 Aug) and Eid Al Adha (10‑12 Aug); 4‑day holiday. |
| Hijri New Year | 13 Aug 2025 | Sunday | First day of the Islamic lunar year (1 Muharram). |
| Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday | 12 Sep 2025 | Monday | Celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. |
| National Day | 2 Dec 2025 – 3 Dec 2025 | Thursday – Friday | Marks the founding of the UAE; 2‑day public holiday. |
All Islamic holidays are set by the moon‑sighting process; the government announces the dates a few days before the event. We embed structured data for each holiday so search engines can surface rich results.
Upcoming Year Insights
The 2026 calendar follows a similar pattern, but the July holidays shift a week earlier. Keep an eye on the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation releases for exact dates.
Practical Tips for Businesses
| Topic | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Payroll & Leave | Sync payroll calendars with the official list; ensure paid leave for every holiday. |
| Staffing | Plan for reduced staff on major holidays; offer flexible shifts before long weekends. |
| Customer Service | Announce closures via website, email, and social media; adjust delivery windows. |
| Compliance | Verify all emirate offices follow local holiday schedules; avoid fines. |
| Marketing | Use holiday themes in campaigns—e.g., “Celebrate Eid Al Fitr with special offers.” |
Quick FAQ
How many paid leave days does the UAE government provide during public holidays?
The law grants one paid day off per official holiday; if it falls on a weekend, the next working day is observed.
When are schools closed for public holidays?
Schools close on all federal holidays and often on emirate‑specific observances like National Day.
Will banks and supermarkets open on national holidays?
Banks stay closed. Supermarkets usually operate but with reduced hours.
Can I work on a public holiday and still receive paid leave?
Yes, you get a paid day off in lieu, usually within a specified period after the holiday.
How do I find the exact day of week for a holiday?
Use a reliable calendar API or the official UAE government holiday page.
July Holiday UAE: 2024 Calendar and 2026‑2028 Forecast
If you’re eyeing a getaway or a work break, UAE public holidays change every year, almost like a desert mirage. Knowing the July holiday UAE schedule lets you line up your plans. We’ve laid out the 2024 calendar and the 2026‑2028 forecast so you can book ahead. Want to see how a moon‑sighting can shift dates?
2024 Current Year Calendar
| Holiday | Date | Day | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 Jan 2024 | Wed | National holiday |
| National Day | 2 Dec 2024 | Sun | UAE National Day |
| Eid Al Fitr | 10‑13 May 2024 | Thu‑Sun | End of Ramadan |
| Arafah Day & Eid Al Adha | 20‑23 May 2024 | Fri‑Mon | Islamic festival |
| Hijri New Year | 9 Jun 2024 | Tue | Islamic New Year |
| Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday | 30 Jun 2024 | Wed | Islamic celebration |
2026‑2028 Forecast
| Year | Key Holiday | Date(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | New Year’s Day | 1 Jan 2026 | Wed |
| 2026 | Eid Al Fitr | 18‑21 Jul 2026 | Sat‑Tue |
| 2026 | Arafah Day & Eid Al Adha | 28‑31 Jul 2026 | Thu‑Sun |
| 2026 | Hijri New Year | 2 Aug 2026 | Mon |
| 2026 | Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday | 2 Sep 2026 | Wed |
| 2026 | National Day | 1‑2 Dec 2026 | Sat‑Sun |
| 2027 | New Year’s Day | 1 Jan 2027 | Sat |
| 2027 | Eid Al Fitr | 7‑10 Aug 2027 | Sat‑Tue |
| 2027 | Arafah Day & Eid Al Adha | 17‑20 Aug 2027 | Thu‑Sun |
| 2027 | Hijri New Year | 12 Aug 2027 | Wed |
| 2027 | Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday | 1 Sep 2027 | Thu |
| 2027 | National Day | 30 Nov‑1 Dec 2027 | Tue‑Wed |
| 2028 | New Year’s Day | 1 Jan 2028 | Mon |
| 2028 | Eid Al Fitr | 25‑28 Aug 2028 | Sat‑Tue |
| 2028 | Arafah Day & Eid Al Adha | 4‑7 Sep 2028 | Thu‑Sun |
| 2028 | Hijri New Year | 1 Sep 2028 | Fri |
| 2028 | Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday | 28 Aug 2028 | Fri |
| 2028 | National Day | 29 Nov‑30 Nov 2028 | Tue‑Wed |
In 2026, the moon was sighted in Saudi Arabia on July 17, pushing UAE’s Eid start to July 18. That one‑day shift can turn a long weekend into a full week of celebration. Employers often pre‑empt such changes by offering flexible leave on the day before the holiday.
Emirate‑Specific Holidays
- Dubai: May 18‑20, 2024 – Dubai Shopping Festival (additional public holiday).
- Abu Dhabi: June 1, 2024 – Abu Dhabi City Day (public holiday).
How to Stay Updated
- Subscribe to the UAE Ministry of Human Resources newsletter.
- Follow official government accounts on Twitter and LinkedIn.
- Check the PublicHolidays.ae tool weekly for revisions.
Practical Tips for HR and Expats
- Align payroll with the provisional calendar; adjust wage calculations for early‑or‑late‑day holidays.
- Plan staffing: schedule extra shifts one day before Eid to cover peak demand.
- Notify clients via email blast and website banner a week in advance.
- Document any holiday‑related overtime in the employee handbook.
- Review emirate‑specific observances; Dubai may add extra days for local events.
We’re setting the stage for the next section, where we’ll dive into how these dates impact travel itineraries and business operations.
FAQ
Q: Are UAE public holidays the same across all emirates?
A: Most federal holidays apply nationwide, but some emirates, like Dubai, may add extra days for local events.
Q: How does moon‑sighting affect holiday dates?
A: Islamic holidays are based on the lunar calendar; the exact start date is confirmed by moon‑sighting committees each year.
Q: Can I use these holidays for paid leave?
A: Yes, employees are entitled to paid leave on official public holidays.
Stay Updated
- Subscribe to our newsletter for real‑time holiday updates.
- Follow official government accounts on Twitter and LinkedIn.
- Check the PublicHolidays.ae tool weekly for revisions.
July Holiday UAE: Dubai’s Unique Observances: How Emirate‑Specific Holidays Shape Your Schedule
July Holiday UAE is your go‑to guide if you’re an expat, an HR pro, or a traveler trying to navigate public holidays. Knowing the federal holidays and Dubai’s special observances lets you sync personal plans and office calendars while soaking up the city’s buzz.
2025 UAE Public Holidays
| Holiday | Date | Day | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 January 2025 | Wednesday | National celebration of the new calendar year. |
| National Day / Union Day | 2 December 2025 | Sunday | Commemorates the UAE’s unification and national identity. |
| Eid Al Fitr (first day) | 29 March 2025* | Saturday | End of the fasting month of Ramadan. |
| Eid Al Fitr (second day) | 30 March 2025* | Sunday | Continuation of the Eid celebration. |
| Eid Al Adha (first day) | 18 June 2025* | Thursday | Sacrifice festival marking Hajj. |
| Eid Al Adha (second day) | 19 June 2025* | Friday | Continuation of the Hajj‑related celebrations. |
| National Day / Union Day (Dubai) | 2 December 2025 | Sunday | Dubai‑specific observance, often extended to 3 December. |
| Dubai Shopping Festival | 1–15 December 2025 | Mon–Fri | Commercial event; not a public holiday but significantly impacts business hours. |
| Dubai International Film Festival | 5–15 January 2026 | Mon–Wed | Cultural event; offices often close early. |
*Dates for Islamic holidays are subject to lunar calendar adjustments.
Upcoming Years
In 2026, the UAE will observe the following changes:
- Eid Al Fitr is expected on 17 March 2026 and 18 March 2026.
- Eid Al Adha will likely fall on 6 June 2026 and 7 June 2026.
- Dubai Shopping Festival will run from 1–15 December 2026.
- Dubai International Film Festival will take place from 5–15 January 2027.
Emirate‑Specific Observances in Dubai
Union Day
While UAE National Day is a federal holiday, Dubai often extends the break. In 2025, many Dubai‑based firms add 3 December to the schedule, giving employees a full weekend and boosting retail activity.
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)
The DSF spans 1–15 December 2025. Although not a public holiday, the festival is treated like one by retailers: extended hours, special promotions, and pop‑up markets. Many businesses adjust their staffing and marketing plans to capture the surge in shoppers.
Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF)
Running from 5–15 January 2026, DIFF attracts filmmakers worldwide. Offices in the city often close early to accommodate industry travel, and tourism operators schedule extra services for visitors.
How These Events Shape Business Hours
| Event | Typical Business Hours | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Union Day | 8 am–5 pm (often 6 pm) | Extra day off for staff; increased retail footfall |
| DSF | 10 am–10 pm | Extended retail hours; pop‑ups open 24 hrs |
| DIFF | 9 am–6 pm | Offices close early; travel staff on call |
Businesses in Dubai frequently adopt a flex‑work model around these dates. HR teams schedule shift rotations to cover peak tourist periods, while marketing departments launch holiday‑themed campaigns.
Practical Tips for HR and Operations
- Align payroll with the local holiday calendar to avoid compliance issues.
- Communicate closures at least two weeks in advance via intranet and email.
- Leverage DSF by offering exclusive employee discounts to boost morale.
- Plan staff rotations for DIFF to cover travel logistics.
FAQ
Q: Are there paid leave days for employees on public holidays?
A: Employees receive paid leave on federal public holidays. In Dubai, extended holidays like Union Day may be treated as paid days off by employers.
Q: Do schools close on Dubai Shopping Festival days?
A: Schools typically follow the federal holiday calendar; DSF is not a school holiday.
Q: Can businesses change their operating hours during these events?
A: Yes, most businesses adjust hours to accommodate increased customer traffic or to provide staff rest.
Q: How do I find the exact dates for Islamic holidays?
A: The UAE Ministry of Economy releases official dates each year; you can also consult the local mosque’s announcement.
Call to Action
Stay up‑to‑date with the latest UAE public holiday calendar and Dubai’s unique observances. Subscribe to our newsletter for real‑time updates and planning tips.
Related Resources
July Holiday UAE: Your Ultimate Public Holiday Calendar & Business Playbook
July Holiday UAE is a key phrase that every business and expatriate needs to know. Understanding the public holiday schedule for 2024 will help you plan payroll, staffing, and customer‑service operations without surprises.
2024 UAE Public Holidays
| Date | Day | Holiday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Jan | Mon | New Year’s Day | National holiday |
| 29 Mar | Fri | Eid al‑Fitr | 3‑day break |
| 12 Apr | Sat | Good Friday | Observed by some sectors |
| 24 Apr | Mon | Labour Day | National holiday |
| 14 May | Sun | Eid al‑Adha | 4‑day break |
| 2 Jun | Mon | UAE National Day | Flag‑raising ceremony |
| 24 Jun | Fri | Islamic New Year | 1‑day observance |
| 31 Jul | Mon | Eid al‑Fitr | 3‑day break (2025) |
(Table simplified for illustration; consult the official Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation calendar for full details.)
Upcoming Years
- 2025: Eid al‑Fitr will be observed from 31 Jul to 2 Aug, with the national holiday on 2 Aug.
- 2026: Labour Day remains on 24 Apr; UAE National Day on 2 Jun.
Emirate‑Specific Holidays
- Dubai: Union Day on 23 Jun (extra day for UAE Nationals).
- Abu Dhabi: 4‑day Eid al‑Adha break with additional school holidays.
- Sharjah: Prophet’s Birthday observed on 15 Apr (extra school day).
Practical Tips for Businesses
-
Payroll Adjustments
– Align salary dates with the holiday calendar.
– Provide paid leave for each public holiday; if it falls on a weekend, give the following Monday off.
– Offer 1.5× overtime rate for holiday work, plus a day off in lieu. -
Flexible Staffing
– Reduce on‑site staff to 50 % on Saturdays, 30 % on Sundays, and 30 % on holidays.
– Offer remote work or shift swaps for key roles. -
Customer‑Service Protocols
– Announce closures at least 48 hours in advance via website banner, email, and social media.
– Use a concise message such as “Holiday Closure – 2 AM – 10 PM” or “We’ll be back tomorrow, refreshed!” -
Compliance Checks
– Verify each branch’s local holiday schedule.
– Conduct quarterly audits to avoid fines (up to AED 50 000). -
Marketing Opportunities
– Run “Eid Specials” or “National Day” limited‑edition products.
– Post daily countdowns on social media leading up to the holiday.
FAQ
-
Do employees get paid for holidays that fall on weekends?
Yes, the following Monday is considered the paid day off. -
Are schools closed on all UAE public holidays?
Most schools observe the national holidays, but check the emirate‑specific calendar for exceptions. -
Can businesses choose to close on non‑public holidays?
Yes, but they must notify customers in advance.
Call to Action
Stay ahead of the calendar: Subscribe to receive the latest UAE holiday updates and business‑planning tips straight to your inbox.
For more resources, see our guides on UAE workweek and school holiday schedules.
July Holiday UAE: FAQ on Public Holidays, Leave, and School Closures
July holiday uae is one of the most sought‑after public holidays. Knowing the exact dates of public holidays, especially the July holiday uae, keeps calendars clear. We’ll answer the most common questions and give you real‑world examples. Let’s dive in.
Table of UAE Public Holidays 2024
| Holiday | Date | Day | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 Jan 2024 | Monday | National holiday celebrating the new year |
| Isra & Mi’raj | 20 Feb 2024 | Saturday | Islamic observance of the Prophet Muhammad’s night journey |
| National Day | 20 Mar 2024 | Saturday | UAE National Day (Emirates Day) |
| Eid Al Fitr – Day 1 | 2 Apr 2024 | Saturday | First day of Eid al‑Fitr |
| Eid Al Fitr – Day 2 | 3 Apr 2024 | Sunday | Second day of Eid al‑Fitr |
| Eid Al Adha – Day 1 | 2 Jun 2024 | Saturday | First day of Eid al‑Adha |
| Eid Al Adha – Day 2 | 3 Jun 2024 | Sunday | Second day of Eid al‑Adha |
Upcoming Years
For 2025, the UAE government has announced that the National Day will be observed on 21 Mar 2025, and the Eid Al Fitr holiday will be celebrated on 1 Apr 2025. Keep an eye on the official UAE government website for any additional changes.
Emirate‑Specific Holidays
Dubai has its own Emirate Day, celebrated on 2 Jan 2024, which is a public holiday only in Dubai. Other emirates have similar local observances that may affect school and business schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions About UAE Public Holidays, Leave, and School Closures
How many paid leave days does the UAE government provide during public holidays?
We get a paid day off for each official public holiday. If a holiday falls on a weekend, we usually observe it on the following Monday, like a well‑tuned clock catching up.
When are schools closed for public holidays?
Schools shut down on all federal public holidays. In Dubai, they may also close for the Union Day (National Day) and for any emirate‑specific observances. Students and parents often plan trips around these long weekends.
Will banks and supermarkets open on national holidays?
Banks close on all public holidays. Supermarkets may stay open, but their hours shrink, similar to a shop keeping its lights on but trading slower.
Can I work on a public holiday and still receive paid leave?
Yes, if you work on a public holiday, you can receive a paid day off in lieu, usually within a set period after the holiday. This keeps employees motivated and fair.
How do I find the exact day of week for a holiday?
Use a reliable calendar API or the official UAE government holiday page to confirm the day of week. Apps like Google Calendar update automatically.
What about working on a holiday in the private sector?
In the private sector, employers may offer a day in lieu or extra compensation. We advise checking your contract or HR policy for specifics.
Are there any special rules for expatriate workers?
Expatriates receive the same paid holiday entitlements as UAE nationals, provided their employment contract aligns with the Labour Law. Always verify with HR.
How do businesses plan around these holidays?
- Payroll & Leave: Align payroll calendars with the official holiday list.
- Staffing: Plan for reduced staff on major holidays.
- Customer Service: Notify customers of closures via website and social media.
- Compliance: Verify all units follow local holiday schedules.
- Marketing: Leverage holiday themes in campaigns.
Where can I find more detailed schedules?
Check our guide on the UAE workweek and the school holiday schedules for deeper exploration.
Stay Updated
Subscribe to our newsletter for instant alerts on UAE public‑holiday updates, long‑weekend planning tips, and exclusive business insights. We’ll keep you ahead of the curve.
July Holiday UAE: Stay Ahead of the Calendar: Subscribe for Real‑Time Holiday Alerts and Planning Tips
July holiday uae: We’ve navigated UAE public holidays together.
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Here’s a quick cheat sheet to illustrate the value.
| Benefit | Impact | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Avoid Conflicts | Saves Time & Money | Reschedule meeting before Eid |
| Maximise Long Weekends | Boost Productivity | Plan team retreat after National Day |
| Keep Ops Smooth | Reduce Downtime | Adjust shift schedules before Arafah Day |
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