By Staff Reporter
Dubai: UAE residents could be in line for another public holiday in August, with Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) expected to be observed next month.
According to the UAE Cabinet’s official public holiday schedule, employees in both the public and private sectors will receive one day off to mark the occasion. The date is expected to fall on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, corresponding to 12 Rabi Al Awwal in the Islamic calendar, although final confirmation will depend on the official moon sighting.
Holiday could be moved to create a longer break
Under UAE public holiday regulations, certain holidays may be shifted to the beginning or end of the week by Cabinet decision. If this rule is applied, the public holiday could be observed on Monday, August 24, potentially giving residents a three-day weekend.
No official announcement has been made yet regarding any change to the expected date.
One of Islam’s most significant occasions
The birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is among the most important religious occasions for Muslims worldwide and is traditionally marked through spiritual gatherings, prayers, and cultural events.
Other UAE holidays remaining in 2026
After the August observance, the next major public holiday will be UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) on December 2–3, 2026. Because the holiday falls on Wednesday and Thursday, many residents could enjoy a four-day break when combined with the Friday–Saturday weekend.
Public holiday rules to remember
- Article 2: Most official holidays, except Eid holidays, may be shifted to the start or end of the week by Cabinet decision.
- Article 3: Holidays that fall on a weekend or overlap with another public holiday are not carried forward.
- Article 4: Local governments may grant additional holidays for their departments on special occasions.
Planning ahead
Residents looking to maximise their time off are advised to watch for official announcements on holiday transfers, as midweek holidays often provide the best opportunity to create an extended weekend with minimal annual leave.
