UAE Public Holidays In 2018
Here’s a schedule of public holidays in 2018. Do bear in mind that private and public sector holidays may differ. Schools usually get the same holidays as the public sector.
Click here for UAE public holidays in 2019.
Some public holidays are subject to moon sighting and government approval.
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April 13 – Ascension Day
Al Isra'a Wal Mi’raj is an Islamic holiday, which marks the journey of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) from Makkah to Jerusalem and then to heaven. In 2018 the holiday falls on Saturday, April 14.
June 15 – Eid Al Fitr
Eid Al Fitr is celebrated at the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The holidays are subject to moon sighting. Ramadan is predicted to end on June 15 or 16, which fall on Friday and Saturday.
August 21 – Arafat Day
The day falls on a Tuesday this year and it marks the second day of Haj. Arafat Day is the day before the start of Eid Al Adha. The holiday could change, depending on moon sighting.
August 22 – Eid Al Adha
The festival of sacrifice, where goats are sacrificed, begins on the 10th day of Dhu Al Hijja – the last month of the Hijri calendar. Usually a two-day holiday is granted and if Arafat Day is included then a five-day weekend is expected in August.
September 13 – Islamic New Year
This holiday is expected to be on a Tuesday, however, its subject to moon sighting.
November 20 - Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday
Prophet Mohammad’s (PBUH) birthday is celebrated on the 12th day of Rabi Al Awwal. This holiday also falls on a Tuesday and is subject to moon sighting.
December 2 – UAE National Day
This holiday is fixed in the UAE and falls on a Sunday, making it a long weekend at the end of the year. It will be UAE’s 47th birthday in 2018.
