Licensed partner of leading UAE developers
Call us, we're working now
+971 (556) 06-53-76
03.12.2025
1201
Save the article:
What is it about? The festivals in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates are officially approved by the government and hold national status. Some are secular, while others are religious. However, not all festive days are public holidays.
Which ones? In addition to official festivals, the United Arab Emirates also celebrates international events such as Halloween, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, and Christmas. Dubai also hosts various other festival celebrations.
During these days Downtown becomes the epicentre of New Year celebrations in Dubai. This is where a magical fireworks display takes place, lighting up the sky not only through launches from the ground but also from the top of Burj Khalifa — the tallest skyscraper in the world.
In recent years, laser shows have been introduced on Burj Khalifa, with projections painting images on the facade of this skyscraper. Spectacular fireworks can also be seen on The Palm island in Jumeirah and around the Burj Al Arab hotel.
Celebrations in other emirates are less extravagant. In Sharjah, a fireworks show takes place along the Al Majaz waterfront. In Abu Dhabi, such events occur along the Corniche and on Yas Island.
Image source: bedneyimages / freepik.com
The first day of January is considered the final day of New Year festivities for the residents of the UAE.
January 2nd is a regular working day unless it coincides with weekends, which fall on Saturdays and Sundays in the UAE. Since 2022, a 4.5-day work week has been implemented.
A sacred day celebrated on the 27th day of the month of Rajab according to the Islamic lunar calendar.
According to the Gregorian calendar, the dates are as follows: March 22nd in 2020, March 11th in 2021, March 1st in 2022, February 18th in 2023, February 7th in 2024, and January 27th in 2025.
The name can be interpreted as “journey and ascent.” On this day, the angel Gabriel visited the Prophet Muhammad, transporting him from Mecca to Jerusalem. From the summit of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, the Prophet ascended to Heaven, where he received the Five Pillars of Islam from Allah.
Previously, this day was celebrated as a public holiday, but in recent years, it is no longer considered one in the UAE.
Muslims do not organise grand celebrations for this event, but many observe fasting.
For travellers, this period brings certain restrictions. Many shops and eateries close during this festival in Dubai, and the sale and consumption of alcohol in bars stop from the evening for the next 24 hours. Nevertheless, each emirate has its own rules regarding alcohol during the celebration of Isra and Mi'raj.
Ramadan is a blessed period in the Islamic calendar dedicated to abstinence. Although no additional public holidays are officially established for this month, for most Muslims, it is perceived as a special time akin to celebration.
For tourists, Ramadan offers both significant advantages and notable disadvantages.
This celebration is also known as “Uraza Bayram” or “Ramadan Bayram.” It marks the end of fasting during the month of Ramadan, which corresponds to the beginning of the month of Shawwal.
According to the Gregorian calendar, the dates of celebration are as follows: in 2020, it falls on May 24th; in 2021, on May 13th; in 2022, on May 2nd; in 2023, on April 21st; in 2024, on April 10th; and in 2025, on March 31st.
Typically, public holidays during Ramadan are established on the last day of the month — the 30th day — as well as on Eid al-Fitr and the following day.
In the United Arab Emirates, there is no tradition of large-scale events on this day. The celebration of Eid al-Fitr begins early in the morning with a grand prayer. During the day, it is customary to hold a lavish family lunch. As a result, shops are often crowded with shoppers, and checkout lines can be particularly long.
However, there are also some advantages — city shopping centres and hypermarkets frequently offer various special promotions organised in honour of this holiday.
Image source: Sergii Figurnyi / shutterstock.com
We recommend shopping enthusiasts to take advantage of this period for purchases. Meanwhile, at water parks and amusement parks, you can enjoy attractive discounts on entry tickets, though you should expect significant crowds at the most popular attractions.
This day is observed on the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca. It is believed that both good deeds and transgressions gain special power during this period, their impact being multiplied several times over.
According to the Gregorian calendar, the dates of celebration are as follows: in 2020, it falls on July 30th; in 2021, on July 19th; in 2022, on July 8th; in 2023, on June 28th; in 2024, on June 16th; and in 2025, on June 6th.
In Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, all institutions are closed on the Day of Arafah. Grand celebrations are not customary on this day. Muslims consider it the most favourable time for prayer. Some believers choose this period for fasting.
On this day, the faithful travel to the summit of Mount Arafat, located just 20 km away from Mecca. It was there that the Prophet Muhammad delivered his final great sermon shortly before his death.
At the foot of the mountain, they pray, seek forgiveness, and cleanse their hearts of sins from noon until sunset. This ritual is known as “wuquf” (standing before Allah). Failure to perform the wuquf at Arafat renders the pilgrimage incomplete.
This solemn day is named “Kurban Bayram,” meaning “Feast of the Sacrifice.” It occurs immediately after the Day of Arafah and lasts for two days.
It commemorates Ibrahim's readiness to sacrifice his son (whose name is unspecified in the source). However, Allah did not allow this to happen. The narrative closely parallels the biblical story of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac.
According to the Gregorian calendar, the dates of celebration are as follows: in 2020, it takes place from July 31st to August 1st; in 2021, from July 20th to 21st; in 2022, from July 9th to 10th; in 2023, from June 29th to 30th; in 2024, from June 17th to 18th; and in 2025, from June 7th to 8th.
During this period, the holidays last for three days: starting from the Day of Arafah and continuing through the two days of Eid al-Adha.
On these days, Muslim believers add an additional morning “eid” prayer to their regular prayers. Traditional gatherings with family and friends occur. Large-scale street festivals, children’s celebrations, and evening fireworks displays are organised in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates.
The first day of the month of Muharram marks the New Year according to the lunar Islamic calendar.
Translating the dates into the Gregorian calendar, we have the following: for 2020, it falls on August 20th; in 2021, on August 10th; in 2022, on July 30th; in 2023, on July 19th; in 2024, on July 8th; and in 2025, on June 27th.
In the past, three days were allocated for celebrating the New Year, whereas now only one day is observed.
On the first day of Muharram, and in some emirates on the following two days, the sale of alcohol is prohibited. Large-scale events are also not permitted. During this period, believers are encouraged to spend time in reflection and repentance through prayer.
Notably, the start of the Islamic New Year does not occur at midnight, nor does it coincide with nighttime hours. It is marked at sunset when the call of the muezzin summons the faithful to the night prayer (namaz), known as “isha.” When the call is heard, everyone understands that it signals the beginning of the new year.
The term “al-Hijri” translates as “departure.” In the Islamic calendar, the count of time begins from the moment when the Prophet Muhammad left Mecca and travelled to Medina in 622 CE (according to the Gregorian calendar). Learning of a conspiracy by his enemies to assassinate him, Muhammad was forced to leave his homeland.
This day is also known as “Mawlid” and is celebrated on the 12th day of the month of Rabi' al-Awwal. Although this festival in Dubai and the Emirates is a day off, large-scale celebrations do not take place. Instead, educational meetings and seminars on religious topics are organised, targeted at the youth.
According to the Gregorian calendar, the dates are as follows: in 2020, it falls on October 29th; in 2021, on October 19th; in 2022, on October 8th; in 2023, on September 27th; in 2024, on September 16th; and in 2025, on September 5th.
In modern times, the Prophet’s Birthday in the United Arab Emirates is marked by only one day of rest.
Interestingly, while the Mawlid is celebrated within the UAE, it is not observed in neighbouring Saudi Arabia. This difference is due to the predominant religious denominations: in the Emirates, the majority are Sunni Muslims (85%) and Shia Muslims (15%), who consider Mawlid an important event.
In contrast, the Salafis in Saudi Arabia deem the celebration impermissible. Despite the common perception in Russia that the Arabs of the Persian Gulf share identical culture and traditions, there are significant differences between them.
In the past, Mawlid was celebrated with poetry readings in memory of the founder of Islam, Muhammad. Songs were performed, and their melodies echoed through the streets. However, such rituals have become significantly less common in recent times.
Flag Day — November 3rd. This is a relatively young holiday, introduced in 2013. Today, Flag Day is not a day off.
An interesting detail: November 3rd is not officially the National Symbol Day. This date became significant because it marks the beginning of the reign of President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2004.
Image source: Creative Family / shutterstock.com
On this day, the flag of the United Arab Emirates is traditionally raised. The solemn event usually begins at eleven in the morning.
In Abu Dhabi, the largest flag-raising ceremony takes place at the Heritage Village flagpole. In Dubai, the celebration is held at the Etihad Museum. In Sharjah, the ceremony occurs at the flagpole located on Al Majaz Island.
On this day, the memory of those who laid the foundations of the country is honoured — the great figures Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid Al Maktoum.
Since 2019, the official celebration has been held on December 1st. Previously, it was observed on November 30th. The date was moved to avoid a gap between Commemoration Day and United Arab Emirates National Day, which falls on December 2nd.
This holiday, established in 2015, is the youngest in the country and is a public holiday. It commemorates all citizens who have given their lives in defence of the United Arab Emirates.
The history of this day began with the memory of the first fallen — Salem Suhail bin Khamis, who died on November 30th, 1971, during the Iranian attack on Greater Tunb Island.
Throughout the morning, from eight until eleven o'clock, national flags across the country are flown at half-mast. At 11:30 AM, a minute of silence is observed, followed by the national anthem. This constitutes the entirety of the commemoration.
Russians perceive this day as something extraordinary. The Emirates have not played an active role in large-scale military conflicts or battles where blood was shed extensively, and throughout their history, the number of fallen soldiers has not exceeded one hundred.
The most significant losses occurred during the Yemen mission, where 108 soldiers were killed (data accurate as of September 2022). However, the Yemen mission is ongoing, and the number of casualties is likely to increase.
In Abu Dhabi, opposite the majestic Sheikh Zayed Mosque, a monumental memorial stands in honour of the fallen Emiratis. There, you can view the list of all fallen individuals, though the names are inscribed exclusively in Arabic, which is undoubtedly a drawback.
December 2nd is celebrated as a holiday, with an additional public holiday on December 3rd.
On this day in 1971, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah signed an agreement to form a union. In 1972, Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation.
The celebrations are grand, featuring parties, fireworks, street festivals, and city decorations. In Abu Dhabi, a massive military parade takes place, showcasing military equipment and aerial displays by the UAE air force.
Locals decorate their cars with vibrant colours and national flags, which protrude from their vehicles as they drive through the city. This spectacle evokes a similar atmosphere to Moscow during the days when the Russian football team celebrates victories in major international competitions.
If you are in Dubai on December 2nd, you will notice that not every resident participates in the festivities. The reason is that among the ten million population of the UAE, only one million hold citizenship.
As of 2023, approximately nine million expatriates resided in the country, accounting for roughly 90% of the total population. This explains the presence of non-traditional Muslim holidays and rituals in the Emirates, including Halloween, Diwali, and Easter.
Note! The events listed below are not official public holidays in the UAE.
The celebration of love, known as Valentine’s Day, is one of the favourite events for UAE residents. This day provides an opportunity to openly express affection and declare love. During this period, famous emirates such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai are filled with aromatic chocolate creations, colorful balloons, and bright flowers.
Image source: shine.graphics / shutterstock.com
Many upscale establishments, including Cipriani Abu Dhabi, Armani, and Brasserie Boulud, offer exquisite five-course menus for couples. For those preferring privacy, luxury hotels are available.
Every year on March 8th, International Women's Day is celebrated worldwide. This day recognises women's significant contributions to political, cultural, economic, and social progress.
The UAE President strives to expand women's rights and opportunities, supporting their advancement into leadership roles in government and the Federal National Council.
On this day, Emirati women can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, attend ladies’ nights at clubs and bars, and enjoy special menus in restaurants.
March 17th marks the celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day in Dubai. Local pubs, bars, and restaurants host special events featuring festive dishes. The colour green often decorates streets, shopping areas, and venues, symbolising the occasion.
Iconic landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Dubai International Airport, and the Dubai Frame are illuminated with green lights and garlands. Popular spots to celebrate include Garden on 8, The Irish Village, The Croft, and Blacksmith Bar & Eatery.
During the Easter holidays, many dining establishments and leisure venues offer family-friendly meals and organise special parties. Amusement parks and recreational zones frequently host Easter-themed events and fairs.
For instance, Legoland Dubai becomes a hub for Easter egg hunts, while bakeries sell traditional hot cross buns.
Although not as widely celebrated in the UAE as in America or Britain, local hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs seize the opportunity to host themed events.
Image source: freepik / freepik.com
In Dubai, Barasti hosts one of the largest costume parties on October 31st. Additionally, Palm Jumeirah Beach offers barbecues accompanied by DJ sets and various other entertaining activities.
Though Christmas is not an official public holiday in the UAE, preparations begin several days before December 25th. Shopping malls, commercial complexes, hotels, and residential areas are adorned with Christmas trees and festive decorations.
Traditional Christmas markets take place at Souk Madinat Jumeirah and WAFI Mall, offering magical decorations, national dishes, drinks, entertainment, carols, and gifts. The luxurious Emirates Palace hotel in Abu Dhabi features one of the world’s most expensive Christmas trees. Christian churches of various denominations are open for worshippers.
The celebration of the Indian Festival of Lights is a significant event for UAE residents. Celebrated for five days, the third day of this festival, known as Diwali, is especially significant. In Dubai, a spectacular fireworks festival takes place, accompanied by various themed activities.
Image source: montypeter / freepik.com
At Dubai Festival City Mall, visitors can witness a stunning show combining laser and fire art, lighting effects, and fountains. In 2022, the world’s largest fountain, Palm Fountain at The Pointe, amazed audiences with unique performances set to popular Indian songs.
In addition to national and state festivals, the UAE hosts numerous other festivals:
No, this practice was discontinued a long time ago in accordance with the country's sanitary regulations. The slaughter of animals now takes place either at home (which is rare today) or at officially approved abattoirs.
According to tradition, the meat of the sacrificial animal is divided into three equal parts: one part is kept for oneself, another is shared with friends and family, and the third is donated to those in need.
In Islamic tradition, Friday is regarded as a particularly significant day of the week. Attractions adjust their operating hours on this day, and some retail establishments may be closed.
During festive periods, in 2024–2025, all government and private organisations, federal bodies, as well as educational institutions, will cease operations on the following occasions:
Due to the proximity of Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and National Day, many residents choose to celebrate these holidays outside the country. Employees in both the private and public sectors are entitled to an equal number of public holidays, which are not included in the annual leave allowance and are paid at the regular daily rate.
Each year in the United Arab Emirates, both secular and Islamic religious festivals are officially celebrated. The timing of these festivities is determined according to the Islamic lunar calendar, which is approximately 10–11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar.
The number of public holidays in the country may vary annually based on the economic situation of the Emirates and is decided each year.
Article header image source: montypeter / freepik.com
