The United Arab Emirates has declared Friday, September 5, 2025, corresponding to 12 Rabi Al-Awwal 1447 AH, as an official holiday to mark the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The holiday applies to both public and private sector employees.
As the holiday coincides with the official weekend (Saturday and Sunday), workers across the UAE will enjoy a three-day break. In Sharjah, where Fridays are already considered part of the weekend, employees will benefit from this holiday in addition to their regular days off.
The UAE’s Moon-Sighting Committee had earlier announced that the crescent of Rabi Al-Awwal was not sighted on Saturday, August 23, 2025. As a result, the month of Safar lasted 30 days, and Rabi Al-Awwal began on Monday, August 25. Therefore, the Prophet’s (PBUH) birthday falls on Friday, September 5.
In a rare occurrence this year, Saudi Arabia and the UAE will observe the Prophet’s (PBUH) birthday on different days. This difference arises because Saudi Arabia sighted the crescent moon one day earlier. The Islamic lunar calendar is based on moon sightings, with each new month beginning upon confirmation of the crescent.
