As Ramadan draws to a close, Dubai is gearing up for one of its busiest travel periods in anticipation of the Eid Al Fitr holiday, which is set to commence on March 30, 2025. The Emirates airline has already begun preparations for heavy passenger volumes, especially during the peak travel days leading up to and during the holiday.
According to Emirates, the busiest times for departures in Terminal 3 will fall on March 28 and 29, as well as April 5 and 6, with more than 80,000 customers expected daily. To navigate the anticipated traffic congestion around the airport entrances, travelers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys to avoid delays.
Passengers are reminded to arrive at the airport up to three hours before their flight. Emirates offers a variety of check-in options, including online check-in via emirates.com or the Emirates App, which opens 48 hours before departure. Customers can also utilize the Emirates City Check-in and Travel Store at ICD Brookfield Place, available from 24 hours to four hours before departure—except for those flying to the US.
For travelers coming from the northern Emirates, check-in is available at the Ajman Central Bus Terminal during the same time frame. Additionally, customers can drop off their luggage at the airport the night before their flight at no extra charge or check in early to streamline their travel process. They are advised to complete passport control and security checks at least 90 minutes before takeoff.
As for boarding, passengers must reach their gates no later than 60 minutes before departure for Economy and Premium Economy classes and 45 minutes for First and Business Class travelers. Importantly, boarding gates will close 20 minutes ahead of scheduled departure, and latecomers will not be accepted for travel, so adherence to these timings is critical.
Synchronized with travel preparations, the Dubai Government Human Resources Department has announced the official Eid Al Fitr holidays for 1446 Hijri. Public sector employees will observe holidays from the first of Shawwal (1446 AH) until the third, resuming work on the fourth day. This years' Eid break could feature up to five days of public holidays based on the moon sighting, which officially determines whether Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days.
If Ramadan lasts 29 days, the public holidays will begin on March 30 and conclude on April 1, creating a four-day weekend. However, if Ramadan stretches to 30 days, the holiday period will intensify, including an additional day off for the 30th day of Ramadan.
Eid Al Fitr is a significant celebration for Muslims worldwide as it marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and reflection. The holiday, translating to ‘Feast of Breaking the Fast,’ occurs on the first day of the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, Shawwal.
In preparation for this festive season, exciting family activities and entertainment options will fill Dubai during the holiday. The celebrations will encompass a variety of events including fireworks displays at major city hotspots, live entertainment in shopping malls, cultural performances, and special events designed for children.
Popular venues across the city will feature lavish dining opportunities and festive food markets deploying exclusive shopping promotions aimed at both residents and visitors. Dubai continues to prioritize building community and family connections through joyful celebrations during Eid, making it a prime destination for those looking to enjoy the festivities.
Moreover, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has confirmed Eid Al Fitr holidays for private sector workers. From March 30 to April 1, these workers will enjoy their holidays, while businesses will resume usual operations by April 4, 2025. Should Ramadan continue for a full month, the holiday period for the public sector will extend further, giving employees more time to celebrate.
Additionally, with all the excitement of the Eid break, travel opportunities are likely to surge. Destinations like Dubai and the Maldives are set to attract many visitors, buoyed by special Eid holiday packages rolled out by airlines and tour operators for those planning vacations during this festive time.
In total, the UAE is set to recognize 12 public holidays in 2025, including significant days like Eid Al Adha, the Islamic New Year, and National Day, adding to the cultural and celebratory experiences within the region.
The expected influx of families and travelers, coupled with cultural activities and community-focused events, highlight the vibrant essence of Eid Al Fitr in Dubai. The emirate's rich festival culture combined with its infrastructural preparations promises a memorable experience for all during this significant occasion.
