The UAE has designated the birthday of Prophet Muhammad as an official public holiday, giving employees across the country a day away from their regular duties to mark the important Islamic occasion.
Known as Mawlid al-Nabi, the occasion falls on 12 Rabi’ al-Awwal in the Islamic calendar and is included in the UAE’s official list of public holidays for both the government and private sectors. Because Islamic holidays follow the lunar calendar, their corresponding Gregorian dates are determined according to moon sighting.
The holiday is observed as an opportunity for Muslims to reflect on the life, character and teachings of Prophet Muhammad. Families and communities may mark the occasion through prayers, religious gatherings, charitable activities and time spent with relatives.
Across the UAE, the occasion is also expected to bring a festive atmosphere to public spaces, with mosques and communities hosting religious programs and gatherings. Residents often use the holiday as an opportunity to rest, reconnect with family and participate in local activities.
The announcement forms part of the UAE’s established calendar of national and Islamic holidays. Other major occasions include Eid Al Fitr, Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha, Islamic New Year, and UAE National Day.
The official holiday applies to both public and private sectors under the UAE’s national holiday framework. Specific dates on the Gregorian calendar can vary each year because Islamic occasions are tied to the Hijri calendar and moon sighting.
For millions of Muslims in the UAE, the occasion represents a time of religious reflection and remembrance, while the public holiday provides residents with an opportunity to observe the day with family and community.
