Residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are expected to enjoy an extended break for Eid ul Fitr, with holidays lasting either four or five days, depending on the moon sighting. This marks the first long holiday of 2025 and a much-anticipated period of celebration and rest for many.
According to astronomical predictions, a five-day holiday is the most likely outcome. Eid ul Fitr, which falls on the first of Shawwal—the Islamic month following Ramadan—signifies the end of fasting. The length of Islamic Hijri months is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon and can be either 29 or 30 days.
The UAE’s moon-sighting committee is set to convene on Saturday, March 29 (Ramadan 29), to observe the skies and determine whether the crescent moon is visible. If the moon is sighted that evening, Ramadan will end after 29 days, and Eid ul Fitr holidays in the UAE will officially commence from Sunday, March 30, lasting until Tuesday, April 1. With the preceding Saturday included, residents will enjoy a four-day break.
However, if the moon is not spotted on March 29, Ramadan will extend to a full 30 days. In this scenario, Sunday, March 30 (Ramadan 30), will be declared a holiday alongside the three official days of Eid. This will result in a five-day break from Sunday, March 30, to Wednesday, April 2, providing UAE residents with an extended period to celebrate and travel.
The Dubai Astronomy Group has conducted calculations suggesting that Ramadan is likely to complete 30 days, making the five-day holiday the more probable outcome. Nevertheless, official confirmation of the UAE holidays will be announced following the moon-sighting committee’s meeting on March 29.
In preparation for Eid ul Fitr, the Dubai Astronomy Group has encouraged residents to participate in the traditional moon sighting. Those interested can look toward the western horizon after sunset, using telescopes or binoculars to aid visibility.
“If you spot the crescent, report your observation to the local authorities or the official moon-sighting committee,” the group advised. “The Eid crescent moon is expected to be visible in the UAE on the evening of March 30, with Eid ul Fitr likely commencing on March 31.”
With UAE holidays for Eid ul Fitr anticipated to bring joy and relaxation, residents eagerly await the official confirmation of their much-deserved break.