Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday 2025 in UAE: Long Weekend Anticipated in September
Residents in the UAE are likely to enjoy an extended public holiday in September 2025 as the nation prepares to mark Prophet Muhammad’s birthday (Mawlid Al-Nabi).
Key Date for 2025
- Occasion: Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid Al-Nabi)
- Islamic Calendar Date: 12 Rabi Al Awwal 1447 AH
- Gregorian Calendar Date: Friday, September 5, 2025
With the holiday falling on a Friday, the observance is expected to merge with the UAE’s regular weekend, giving residents a three-day break.
Moon Sighting and Islamic Calendar Update
The International Astronomy Center (UAE) confirmed that the crescent marking the start of Rabi Al Awwal was not visible on Saturday, August 23, 2025.
- On Sunday, August 24, the crescent became visible in most Arab countries.
- As a result:
- Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Palestine, Egypt, Tunisia began Rabi Al Awwal on August 24.
- UAE, Oman, Jordan, Algeria, Libya, Morocco, Mauritania, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Iran started the month on Monday, August 25.
This means the UAE will officially mark the 12th of Rabi Al Awwal on September 5, 2025.
UAE Public Holidays 2025 – Where This Fits In
Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is recognized under the UAE’s Cabinet-approved public holiday list. While the official announcement will be made closer to the date, the holiday typically provides residents with an additional day off work and school.
Snapshot: Major UAE Public Holidays 2025 (Confirmed & Expected)
| Holiday | Gregorian Date | Islamic Date | Day | Expected Break |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Jan 1 | – | Wednesday | 1 day |
| Eid Al Fitr | Mar 30–Apr 2 | 1–4 Shawwal 1446 | Sun–Wed | 4 days |
| Arafat Day | Jun 6 | 9 Dhu Al Hijjah 1446 | Friday | 1 day |
| Eid Al Adha | Jun 7–9 | 10–12 Dhu Al Hijjah 1446 | Sat–Mon | 3 days |
| Islamic New Year | Jul 27 | 1 Muharram 1447 | Sunday | 1 day |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday | Sep 5 | 12 Rabi Al Awwal 1447 | Friday | 3-day weekend |
| Commemoration Day & UAE National Day | Dec 1–2 | – | Mon–Tue | 4 days weekend(not confirmed) |
What This Means for UAE Residents
- Weekend Extension: Friday holiday + Saturday + Sunday = 3 days off.
- Travel Boost: Many families are expected to plan regional getaways.
- Public Sector & Schools: Both government offices and schools will close in line with the holiday calendar.
