UAE: The UAE has officially designated Friday, September 5, 2025 (12th of Rabi Al-Awwal), as a paid holiday for employees across both the public and private sectors to mark the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) issued the guidance for private companies following a circular from the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources that granted the same day off for government employees, creating a unified national observance. Falling on a Friday, the holiday coincides with the weekend start for many, effectively extending rest periods for a large portion of the workforce and allowing families and communities to attend religious ceremonies and commemorative events.
Authorities emphasized that the unified announcement reflects the UAE’s longstanding tradition of honouring significant Islamic occasions and aims to ensure that employees in all sectors can participate in commemorations. Employers are being asked to implement the directive in accordance with existing labour laws and contractual obligations, with MoHRE providing clarifications to companies regarding leave entitlement, wage treatment, and any sector-specific exceptions. Public services and essential operations are expected to remain functional with contingency staffing arrangements where necessary, while many private businesses and retail outlets are likely to adjust hours to accommodate increased weekend and holiday footfall.
The timing of the holiday may have short-term economic and logistical effects, including shifts in consumer behaviour, transportation demand, and hospitality bookings as residents take advantage of the extended break. Event organisers, places of worship, and tourism operators are preparing for higher attendance at religious gatherings and cultural programmes, while traffic and public transit authorities are coordinating to manage flows around key venues. Businesses operating within time-sensitive supply chains should plan accordingly for potential disruptions, and employers are encouraged to communicate clearly with staff and clients about operating hours and service availability during the holiday period.
Beyond the immediate operational considerations, officials noted the broader social value of a shared day of commemoration, which supports community cohesion and the observance of religious traditions. The decision also underscores the UAE’s approach to balancing workplace regulations with cultural and religious priorities, reinforcing the importance of national unity during significant Islamic dates. Residents and expatriates alike are advised to respect local customs during the observance, and authorities have called on the public to participate in ceremonies responsibly while following any health and safety guidance issued for large gatherings.
