Looking forward to the next chance to unplug and recharge? Well, you’re in luck. The next long weekend in UAE is approaching this September 2025, thanks to a deeply meaningful Islamic observance - Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, or Mawlid al-Nabi.
This spiritual holiday offers not only a much-needed break from routine, but also an opportunity to reflect, reconnect with faith, and spend quality time with loved ones. Whether you’re planning a peaceful staycation, charity work, or spiritual immersion, this public holiday is one to mark on your calendar.
When Is the Next Public Holiday in UAE?
The next public holiday in UAE is expected to fall on Friday, September 5, 2025, aligning with the expected date of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday. As with all Islamic holidays, the exact date will be confirmed based on the moon sighting to mark the beginning of the month of Rabi’ al-Awwal.
If the sighting places the 12th ahead, the holiday will be on Thursday, September 4, but it is also possible for the UAE Cabinet to declare the holiday on Friday to give citizens and residents a long weekend.
September would then have a three-day weekend, from Friday to Sunday, offering a nice balance of resting and reflection.
What Is Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday and Why Is It Celebrated?
Mawlid al-Nabi commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), a revered figure in Islam known for his teachings of peace, compassion, and justice. The occasion falls on the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month in the Islamic lunar calendar. While it is celebrated in different ways across Muslim-majority countries, in the UAE, it is a day marked by prayer, charity, and reflection rather than festive public events.
Is Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) birthday a UAE national holiday? Yes—it most definitely is. It's one of the nation's official UAE public holidays, and public and private sector staff receive a full day off. It's one of the quieter holidays of the calendar year, but it is incredibly significant spiritually and culturally.
Is Milad-un-Nabi Celebrated in Dubai?
Yes, it is indeed. While the celebrations tend to be moderate in comparison to other Islamic festivities, Milad un Nabi is celebrated across Dubai and the other UAE. Focus is placed on religious activities rather than public celebrations. Mosques preach the life of the Prophet (khutbahs), families have family dinners, and charity donations are made during this season.
If you’ve ever wondered, is Eid Milad a government holiday in the UAE?—the answer is a definite yes. The UAE recognizes Mawlid al-Nabi as an official public holiday. Both Emiratis and expatriates observe the day with respect, and businesses across the country close operations to allow for religious observance and personal time.
What Makes This Long Weekend in the UAE So Special?
Here's what makes this weekend stand out from other UAE holidays:
Spiritual depth: Discover peaceful sermons in mosques, recitation of the Quran, and quiet family discussions grounded in Islamic beliefs.
Cultural connection: Multiculturalism in the UAE becomes evident the moment it bridges Muslim and non-Muslim communities
Charitable focus: Helping the poor is a significant part of the teaching and day-to-day practice of the Prophet on this day.
This six-day weekend is not lavish—it's meaningful.
Yet, for tourists looking for a special blend of relaxation and reward, options like a premium staycation, or a heritage stay in Al Ain are always on the table.
What to Do During the UAE Public Holiday in September?
Here are some thoughtful and calming ways to spend the UAE public holiday in Sept:
Go to the special Friday sermons or mosque-organized events in Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai.
Volunteer or donate to local causes of humanitarianism—zakat (charitable donation) is highly encouraged.
Plan a spiritual retreat or simply go on leave in nature, reflecting on the wisdom of the Prophet.
Make a staycation cultural trip to Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, or even a city break in Old Dubai.
To Conclude,
The next public holiday in UAE is not just an off-day—it's a pause that invites you to step back, reflect, relax, and come together. If you're participating in mosque activities, family days, or just providing your soul with some rejuvenation time, this long weekend provides significance to your break.
So, take a deep breath and start planning. The upcoming UAE long weekend is just around the corner—and it's a time to be revered.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Prophet's (PBUH) birthday a holiday in the UAE?
Yes, it is. It's an officially announced public holiday across the Emirates, which confers both religious and personal value to residents and citizens alike.
- Can Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) birthday be regarded as a national holiday?
The answer is yes—it's included in the official government calendar of holidays and holds good across the country.
- Is Milad-un-Nabi celebrated in Dubai?
Absolutely. While it’s not marked with fireworks or parades, it is deeply observed through mosque gatherings, Quran readings, and family time.
- Is Eid Milad a government holiday in the UAE?
Yes, it is. It’s treated with the same importance as other religious observances like Eid al-Fitr or Islamic New Year.
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