On the occasion of the new Hijri year, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has announced that Friday, June 27, 2025, will be a paid holiday. This is applicable to both private and public sectors in the UAE.
Given the global recognition and significance of the new Hijri year 1447 AH, let’s explore the real meaning behind this special day and why it is celebrated as a public holiday in the UAE.
Islamic New Year: What does it mean?
Hijri New Year, as the world calls it, the Islamic New Year is a time for spiritual reflection and peace. Since Hijri is derived from the word Hijrah, meaning migration, the day marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar—a pivotal moment when Prophet Muhammad led his followers in migrating from Mecca to Medina.
For Muslims around the world, Hijri usually begins in the month of Muharram, a sacred period for intensifying good deeds and focusing on spiritual renewal.
Why the Islamic New Year holiday date changes every year?
In Dubai, the public holidays are largely determined by the Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle and the sightings of the moon. As a result, the dates for celebrations and public holidays vary each year due to differences in moon sightings.
While the Islamic calendar is lunar, the Gregorian calendar is solar and follows a fixed schedule.
How is the Islamic New Year celebrated?
Hijrah New Year is a time of year when reflection, prayer, and community gatherings are highly encouraged. Mainly, Muslims around the world engage in:
- Prayers and Recitation of the Quran, especially on the Day of Ashura (10th of Muharram), to feel closer to the divine Allah.
- Fasting on the Day of Ashura, to express devotion and gratitude. (10th day of Muharram)
- In addition to these spiritual activities, charity and acts of generosity plays a significant role during this time.
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Final thoughts
Since the UAE government has officially declared Friday, June 27, as a public holiday, this could also mean a 3-day long weekend for employees in the public sector. The normal working hours will resume on Monday, June 30, 2025.
May this Muharram bring you closer to God, and let these holidays help you start fresh and keep you ready for the upcoming days.
So let these holidays help you start fresh and keep you ready for the upcoming days. For the latest updates on UAE holidays, celebrations, and exciting news in Dubai, visit our website to stay informed.
Frequently Asked Questions:
The Islamic New Year in 2025 will be on Friday, June 27. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has announced that this day will be a paid public holiday for both private and public sectors in the UAE.
The Islamic New Year, also known as the Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the migration (Hijrah) of Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina.
Celebrations of the Hijri New Year include prayers, recitation of the Quran, and fasting on the Day of Ashura, followed by charitable acts of service.
