As one of the most anticipated festivals in the Islamic calendar, Eid Al Adha brings with it joy, reflection, and celebration across the Muslim world. In the UAE, this occasion is marked by public holidays, family gatherings, charity, and a deep sense of community. As 2025 unfolds, families and businesses alike are eagerly asking: When will the official start date of Eid Al Adha be announced?
With millions planning holidays, spiritual rituals, and time with loved ones, this announcement is more than just a date—it’s the heartbeat of community planning across the Emirates.
What Is Eid Al Adha?
Eid Al Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It follows the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah and falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelfth month in the Islamic lunar calendar.
The celebration spans several days, during which families perform prayers, share meals, and often sacrifice livestock—distributing meat to the needy, friends, and family. It’s a time of gratitude, giving, and unity.
How Is the Start Date Determined?
Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar is lunar, which means the months are based on moon sightings. As such, the exact dates of Islamic holidays—including Eid Al Adha—can only be confirmed with the sighting of the crescent moon.
The UAE typically confirms the date based on observations made by the Moon-Sighting Committee, a panel of astronomers, Islamic scholars, and authorities. Once the crescent moon of Dhu al-Hijjah is sighted, the date of Arafat Day (the day before Eid) and Eid itself are announced.
This year, astronomical predictions suggest that Eid Al Adha 2025 may fall on the evening of Saturday, June 7, with the public holiday likely observed from Sunday, June 8. However, official confirmation is expected closer to the date, around the 29th day of Dhul Qadah (likely in early June 2025).
What to Expect from the Announcement?
Residents can expect an official statement from the UAE’s International Astronomical Center and the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), which usually announces public holidays.
Many in the UAE are closely watching these announcements as Eid holidays are often bundled into long weekends, allowing for travel or staycations. With 2025’s tentative date falling on a weekend, residents may enjoy an extended break—a major reason for the excitement around the announcement.
Travel and Holiday Surge
Airlines and hotels are already preparing for an uptick in travel bookings. Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports usually experience a surge in passenger traffic during Eid holidays. Tour agencies are seeing early interest in Eid packages to destinations like Georgia, Turkey, and Azerbaijan.
Staycation deals are also gaining popularity, with top hotels in the UAE rolling out early-bird offers for Eid Al Adha.
Eid Preparations Already Underway
In many households, preparations for Eid have quietly begun. Tailors are booked weeks in advance for custom outfits, and butchers are planning livestock deliveries. Mosques are getting ready to host large congregational prayers, and charities are preparing Eid gift boxes and food distributions.
Eid Al Adha is not only a time for celebration but also for spiritual reflection and acts of kindness. Local initiatives like Dar Al Ber Society and Emirates Red Crescent see an increase in donations and volunteering during this season.
Why This Eid Matters So Much in 2025
With the post-pandemic recovery in full swing and travel restrictions largely eased, Eid Al Adha 2025 marks one of the first few years where the region can fully celebrate without limitations. This return to tradition holds emotional weight for families who missed out on gatherings in previous years.
In 2025, Eid is not just a festival—it’s a return to shared experiences. It symbolizes gratitude not only in faith but also in togetherness.
Keeping an Eye on the Moon
Until the official announcement is made, residents are encouraged to stay updated through official news portals, social media announcements from UAE authorities, and mosque bulletins. As soon as the crescent moon is sighted and the date is verified, the countdown to Eid Al Adha 2025 will truly begin.
For those planning time off or booking trips, keeping flexible dates is advisable until confirmation from the Moon-Sighting Committee.
Final Thoughts
While the exact date of Eid Al Adha 2025 remains to be officially confirmed, expectations and excitement are already building up across the UAE. Whether it’s planning a family reunion, booking a staycation, or donating to charity, the spirit of Eid is already in the air.
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