UAE declares holiday for private sector on September 5 to mark Prophet Muhammad’s birthday

The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has officially announced a public holiday for all private sector employees on Friday, September 5, 2025, to commemorate the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

The confirmation follows lunar observations and aligns with the 12th of Rabi Al Awwal on the Islamic calendar.

Private sector holiday confirmed for September 5

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has declared that Friday, September 5, 2025, will be a paid public holiday for private sector workers across the UAE. The date corresponds to the 12th of Rabi Al Awwal, a day of deep religious significance marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), observed annually across the Muslim world.The holiday confirmation was issued in accordance with the UAE Cabinet’s approved schedule of official holidays. While the expected date had been projected earlier, it was officially confirmed only after the Islamic month of Rabi Al Awwal was determined through moon sighting protocols.On Saturday, August 23, 2025, the International Astronomy Center based in the UAE reported that the crescent moon—which signals the start of Rabi Al Awwal—had not been sighted anywhere in the Arab world.

Based on this observation, the first day of Rabi Al Awwal began a day later, positioning the 12th of the month on Friday, September 5.The Islamic calendar follows a lunar system, so religious events are confirmed only after verified moon sightings. Multiple countries across the region have aligned with this date, confirming the shared observance.The Prophet’s birthday, known in Arabic as Mawlid al-Nabawi, is marked by Muslims through special prayers, religious lectures, and reflections on the Prophet’s life and teachings.

Though it is a day of celebration for many, it is also observed as a time for spiritual reflection and acts of kindness.As the holiday falls on a Friday, which is part of the UAE’s weekend, many employees may benefit from a long weekend, lasting until Sunday. Private companies are required to comply with the official holiday notice, granting staff a paid day off in line with UAE labour regulations.