August 6, 2025 | Dubai, UAE: A much-awaited UAE long holiday may be on the way this September, with the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) expected to fall on Thursday, September 4. If the government shifts the public holiday to Friday, as it has done in the past, residents across the country could enjoy a three-day weekend.
Recognised as a public holiday under UAE law, the Prophet’s birthday is a deeply significant religious occasion. And with previous patterns of aligning holidays to the start or end of the week, the chances of an extended break are looking good, offering a timely pause just as summer winds down.
Could This Be the Next UAE Long Holiday?
Prophet Muhammad’s birthday or Mawlid Al Nabawi, is one of the most honoured days in the Islamic calendar. Based on astronomical projections, it’s expected to fall on Thursday, September 4, which corresponds with 12 Rabi Al Awwal 1447 AH.
The UAE Cabinet allows public holidays (excluding Eid) to be shifted to a Friday or Monday for a more convenient weekend. If that happens this year, the UAE long holiday could run from Friday, September 5 to Sunday, September 7 is giving residents a rare chance to enjoy a three-day break. Although no official confirmation has been issued yet, similar decisions in the past give people reason to hope.
Residents Already Planning Ahead
Even before the announcement, the buzz around a potential UAE long holiday is already building. Travel websites have seen increased searches for weekend stays and quick trips, with destinations like Fujairah, Musandam, and Salalah becoming hot picks.
Families who plan to stay in the UAE are preparing for small gatherings, peaceful time at home, or visits to mosques. Others are using the occasion to reflect spiritually and spend more time with loved ones.
“Whether it’s a trip to the mountains or a quiet weekend at home, it’s a welcome break before the year picks up pace again,” “These long weekends make a big difference,” said a Dubai-based working professional.
Awaiting the Official Decision
So far, UAE authorities haven’t confirmed the exact public holiday date. However, Egypt’s National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics has predicted that the Prophet’s birthday will fall on September 4, based on the lunar calendar.
As with all Islamic holidays, official dates are usually confirmed closer to the event. Still, with a strong possibility of the holiday falling near the weekend, a UAE long holiday remains highly likely. The trend of creating long weekends has been welcomed by both residents and local businesses, and this year may follow the same path.
How the Government Can Shift Holidays
According to Cabinet Resolution No. (27) of 2024, the UAE has the option to move most public holidays except for Eid to a nearby weekend. This approach supports work-life balance and helps boost domestic tourism.
In this case, if the Thursday holiday is shifted to Friday, it will create the kind of UAE long holiday many residents look forward to. Travel agents are advising people to book early or at least explore refundable deals, as demand typically spikes after official announcements.
Beyond the Break: The Day’s Spiritual Meaning
While the break is appreciated, it’s important not to lose sight of what the day represents. Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is marked by acts of kindness, prayer, and remembrance. Community events, spiritual talks, and gatherings are common during this time, keeping the focus on peace and gratitude.
Unlike other public holidays, this UAE long holiday is expected to carry a calm and respectful tone, honouring the spiritual value of the day while still offering residents a well-earned rest.
Whether it’s spent relaxing at home, travelling with family, or attending religious gatherings, the UAE long holiday in early September is shaping up to be one of the most meaningful breaks of the year.
As residents wait for the official update, many are already hopeful that this UAE long holiday will be confirmed soon and give everyone a much-needed breath before the final stretch of the year begins.
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