Incoming Long Weekend for Hijri New Year: A Time to Celebrate and Reflect
With official confirmation from the UAE government, Friday, June 27, 2025 has been declared a public holiday to mark the start of the Islamic Hijri New Year, 1 Muharram 1447 AH . Falling on a Friday, this holiday gifts residents a rejuvenating long weekend — the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and plan.
What Hijri New Year Signifies
The Hijri New Year commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s migration (Hijrah) from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE — a pivotal event in Islamic history that laid the foundation for the Muslim community and its calendar . Unlike festive Eids, this day is traditionally a solemn time of reflection, gratitude, and personal renewal .
Why This Holiday Resonates Now
Long Weekend Perks
Astronomical projections placed the start of Muharram on Thursday, June 26 – but with a 30‑day Dhu al‑Hijjah, the holiday shifts to Friday, June 27. UAE authorities seized this alignment to maximize leisure time, granting a refreshing long weekend.
How Residents Can Make the Most of It
1. Cultural Immersion
Museums and heritage centres — such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, Etihad Museum, and Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation — are likely to host exhibitions, calligraphy workshops, and cultural events themed around the Hijrah journey.
2. Serene Staycations
With summer in full swing, UAE resorts — including desert hideaways and beachfront sanctuaries — are offering special Hijri New Year packages featuring spa days, desert safaris, private dinners, and reflection sessions .
3. Mindful Moments
This holiday is an ideal moment for spiritual reflection — attend mosque prayers, share quiet time with loved ones, embrace acts of charity, and set personal intentions for the year ahead.
4. Family Fun & Light Shows
Expect relaxed evening fireworks or light displays at waterfronts like JBR, Bluewaters Island, and Al Majaz while family-friendly activities such as storytelling, museum crafts, and nature excursions flourish during the long weekend.
5. Shopping & Dining Specials
Malls and eateries may launch promotions on themed gift sets — Arabic perfumes, traditional sweets, date boxes — while restaurants spotlight hearty Emirati dishes like harees, majboos, and luqaimat .
What’s Next: Looking Ahead in 2025
After this Hijri holiday, the next official UAE observance will be Mawlid Al-Nabi (the Prophet’s birthday), expected in early September, followed by the Commemoration and National Day celebrations in December .
In Summary
This Hijri New Year long weekend is a rare chance to:
- Reflect on deep historical roots and personal growth
- Reconnect with family, friends, culture, and yourself
- Rejuvenate through travel, calm activities, or simple daily pleasures
Amid the buzz for staycations, culture, and intentional moments, now is the time to craft content, events, and marketing around themes of renewal, unity, and personal purpose.
Do follow UAE Stories on Instagram.
Al Noor Hospital Bids Farewell After 40 Years of Remarkable Care
