UAE public holidays in 2025: key selling periods for travel agents

Following the New Year's Day holiday, there are several more public holidays to capitalise on in 2025 before we head into the next Christmas break.

With an expected six days off work for both Eid holidays and three one-day holidays falling on Friday or Monday to create long weekends, plus the combined Commemoration Day and Eid Al Etihad (National Day) three-day extravaganza, it should be a busy year for travel agents.

Here's how to maximise on time off work in the UAE and sell more holidays.

Monday 31 March to Wednesday 2 April: Eid Al Fitr – make it a nine-day holiday
In 2025, Ramadan is likely to begin on Friday 28 February or Saturday 1 March, ending on Sunday 30 March, with Eid Al Fitr expected from Monday 31 March, giving UAE residents a three-day public holiday after Ramadan. Encourage clients to book a couple of days' annual leave on Thursday 3 and Friday 4 April, in between weekends either side, and that gives them the opportunity to take a nine-day holiday.

Best destinations to visit in April

• Southern Europe: Spring offers mild weather and fewer crowds in destinations like Italy and Greece. Clients can enjoy historic landmarks, blooming countryside and relaxed al fresco dining before peak summer begins.
• Morocco: Recommend Marrakech's vibrant souks, Fes's ancient medina and serene Atlas Mountain escapes.
• The Maldives: A serene retreat of powder-soft beaches, turquoise seas and over-water villas, ideal for snorkelling, diving and sun worshipping as the dry season draws to a close.
• Japan: Springtime in Japan is enchanting, with cherry blossoms painting Kyoto's temples, Tokyo's parks and Osaka's castle in shades of pink. Suggest hanami picnics and seasonal festivals to complete the experience.

Cherry blossom season in Japan

Friday 30 May: Arafat Day – make it a long weekend
There's potential for a long weekend break in May. With the weather heating up across of the Gulf, the mountains of Oman and the northern regions of Saudi are a few degrees cooler, making for pleasant short-haul escapes.

Saturday 31 May to Monday 2 June: Eid Al Adha – make it a nine-day holiday
Sometimes referred to at 'Big Eid', the second Eid holiday of the year spans three days over a weekend, but many employers will carry forward the public holidays giving employees the three-day leave entitlement from Monday 2 to Wednesday 4 June. By adding a couple of day's annual leave, sandwiched between weekends, another nine-day holiday is possible. Encourage your travel clients to check holiday dates with their employers in advance.

Best destinations to visit in June

• Iceland: From the ethereal midnight sun to towering glaciers, thundering waterfalls and active volcanoes, this is a dream location for nature lovers. Suggest guided glacier hikes, and visits to iconic sites like Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss.
• Northern Europe: Northern Europe is warming up, but ahead of the school holidays, it's a quieter and more affordable time to visit. In France, Provence's lavender fields begin to bloom and there are deals to be had on the French Riviera.
• Canada: Canada is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. British Columbia, in particular, offers world-class kayaking along pristine coastlines, scenic hikes through lush forests and whale-watching opportunities.
• USA: In Alaska, clients can marvel at the wildlife, glaciers and endless daylight hours during the summer solstice. For those seeking city experiences, highlight the vibrant energy of New York and the luxury of Los Angeles.
• Bali: The island's verdant jungles and lush rice terraces are best enjoyed in the comfort of the dry season. Recommend Ubud's wellness retreats, or the lively beach scene of Seminyak for those wanting a more social atmosphere.

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Friday 27 June: Islamic New Year – make it a long weekend
Another long weekend break will be possible at the end of June. Short-haul destinations to consider include Georgia for Tbilisi's charming streets, the cool mountain air of Kazbegi and scenic vineyards in Kakheti; Azerbaijan for Baku's skyline, ancient city walls and the refreshing breeze from the Caspian Sea, and Armenia for hikes through the Dilijan National Park.

Monday 1 September: The Prophet Mohammed's birthday – make it a long weekend
Another long weekend follows with the Prophet Mohammed's birthday landing on 1 September. Book any of the destinations recommended for Islamic New Year (above), or Jordan for a day floating in the Dead Sea and a day in historic Petra.

Petra, Jordan

Monday 1 to Wednesday 3 December: Commemoration Day and Eid Al Etihad (UAE's National Day) – make it a nine-day holiday
Following Commemoration Day, National Day celebrations (now spanning two days) make the UAE one of the best destinations for inbound travel, with glorious mild sunny weather and a convivial atmosphere across the country. Those looking for outbound opportunities, have a wealth of winter escapes to choose between.

Best destinations to visit in December:

• Switzerland: Recommend Switzerland to clients seeking a winter getaway, offering top-tier skiing in Zermatt and festive Christmas markets in Zurich.
• Thailand: Suggest Thailand to clients looking for vibrant culture and stunning beaches. December is peak season in Phuket and Koh Samui with ideal weather conditions.
• Austria: Vienna's Christmas markets and Alpine ski resorts offer a mix of festive spirit and outdoor adventure.
• South Africa: Highlight South Africa's sunny climate in December, as well as safaris in Kruger National Park, Cape Town's beaches and wine tours.
• Lapland (Finland): Recommend Lapland for Northern Lights viewing, Santa experiences and reindeer sleigh rides.
• Egypt: Suggest Egypt for clients interested in history and culture, with cooler December weather making pyramid visits and Nile cruises more comfortable.
• Vietnam: Offer Vietnam to clients seeking a blend of culture and nature, with December's mild weather ideal for exploring Hanoi, Halong Bay and central Vietnam.
• The Maldives: Ideal for clients wanting luxury and relaxation, the Maldives is also lovely in December.

Nova Maldives

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