UAE to Observe Holiday on September 5 for Milad-un-Nabi

Dubai: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially announced Friday, September 5, 2025, as a public holiday in honor of the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). The holiday will grant residents and employees across the country a three-day weekend, as it coincides with the regular Saturday-Sunday weekend.

Holiday Announced for Both Public and Private Sectors

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation confirmed that all employees in the private sector will be entitled to a fully paid holiday on September 5. Likewise, government employees will also benefit from the same day off, ensuring equal holiday policies for both sectors.

The occasion falls on the 12th day of Rabi Al-Awwal, the third month in the Islamic lunar calendar, which is traditionally observed as Milad-un-Nabi (Peace Be Upon Him) — the day Muslims around the world celebrate the birth of the Holy Prophet.

In Sharjah, where Friday is already designated as a weekend day for public employees, workers will also enjoy the three-day break, aligning with the rest of the UAE.

How the Date Was Confirmed

The announcement followed the moon-sighting reports earlier in August. On August 23, the crescent moon for Rabi Al-Awwal was not sighted, confirming that the preceding month of Safar lasted 30 days. Therefore, Rabi Al-Awwal began on August 25, making September 5 the 12th day of the month.

This year’s observance will not align with Saudi Arabia, where the new month began a day earlier due to the moon being sighted sooner. Such variations are common across Muslim-majority countries because the Islamic calendar is based on lunar sightings, and the start of each month is officially declared after the moon-sighting committee’s confirmation.

UAE’s Unified Holiday Policy

The UAE has adopted a unified public holiday calendar for both government and private sector employees, ensuring equal time off for everyone throughout the year. This initiative aims to strengthen work-life balance and provide all employees with the same opportunities to enjoy important national and religious occasions.

Celebrations in Pakistan

Meanwhile, in Pakistan, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announced that Eid Milad un-Nabi (Peace Be Upon Him) will be observed on Saturday, September 6, 2025. Citizens will benefit from a two-day weekend, as the holiday will fall on Saturday, followed by the regular Sunday break.

Authorities in Pakistan have already begun preparations to mark the occasion with full religious zeal. Security measures are being tightened to ensure peaceful celebrations, while streets, mosques, and key venues will be illuminated with decorative lights and banners. Traditional processions and religious gatherings will also be held across major cities to honor the Prophet’s birth anniversary.

Global Muslim Communities Preparing for Celebrations

Across the world, Muslim communities are preparing to observe the day with various cultural and religious traditions. From public lectures and spiritual gatherings to decorated streets and charity initiatives, Mawlid al-Nabi is seen as a time to reflect on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and spread messages of peace, kindness, and unity.

For residents in the UAE, this three-day weekend provides not only a spiritual moment of reflection but also an opportunity to spend quality time with family and loved ones.

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