The Egyptian government has officially announced the Eid al-Fitr holiday for 2025, granting employees in both the public and private sectors a formal holiday to celebrate this joyous occasion. The Ministry of Labor has decided to extend the number of days off for the private sector to four, ensuring that citizens can celebrate Eid al-Fitr with their families and loved ones while balancing work requirements.
Mohamed Gabran, the Minister of Labor, confirmed in an official statement that the Eid al-Fitr holiday for workers in the private sector will now be four days instead of the previously allotted two. This holiday will commence on Sunday, March 30, 2025, and continue through Wednesday, April 2, 2025, as a paid official holiday. This change reflects the government's commitment to allowing employees to enjoy a more extended break during this significant time.
According to Dar Al-Ifta Al-Masryah, the first day of Eid al-Fitr is set to be on Monday, March 31. The decision stipulates that the Eid holiday is a paid official holiday for all workers across both sectors. In instances where work circumstances necessitate that employees work during this period, employers are required to provide compensation in accordance with the law.
Previously, the law only allowed for the first and second days of Shawwal as official holidays for the private sector. The new decision, however, provides workers with the opportunity to spend more time with their families during this festive period. The breakdown of the Eid al-Fitr holiday for the private sector is as follows:
- Sunday, March 30, 2025 – Official holiday for Eid al-Fitr eve.
- Monday, March 31, 2025 – First day of Eid al-Fitr.
- Tuesday, April 1, 2025 – Second day of Eid al-Fitr.
- Wednesday, April 2, 2025 – Third day of Eid al-Fitr, an additional holiday as per the Ministry of Labor's decision.
In addition to the private sector, the Minister of Education and Technical Education has announced that students in all schools across the Republic will also receive an official holiday from Saturday, March 29, 2025, until Friday, April 4, 2025, to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. This decision ensures that students will have a full week off, allowing them to enjoy the festivities with their families.
Furthermore, students in Al-Azhar institutes will also benefit from this extended holiday, as directed by Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar. The holiday for Al-Azhar students will mirror that of public school students, running from Saturday, March 29, 2025, to Friday, April 4, 2025, with classes resuming on Saturday, April 5, 2025.
However, while the official holiday is granted to most workers, certain sectors will still require staff to work during the Eid al-Fitr holiday. For example, hospitals and medical centers providing emergency services, as well as companies in vital sectors such as electricity, water, and communications, will need to maintain operations. Additionally, tourist and hotel establishments that cater to visitors during the holiday will also continue to operate.
Employers in these sectors have the right to organize work schedules according to operational needs, while ensuring that employees who are required to work during the holiday are compensated fairly, as mandated by law. This balance aims to support both the celebration of Eid and the essential services that must continue during this time.
The adjustments to the Eid al-Fitr holiday reflect a broader commitment by the Egyptian government to enhance work-life balance for its citizens. By extending the holiday for the private sector and ensuring that students also receive ample time off, the government is promoting family unity and cultural celebration during one of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar.
As the Eid al-Fitr holiday approaches, many families are preparing to celebrate this significant occasion, which marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and reflection. The extended holiday provides an opportunity for families to come together, share meals, and partake in traditional festivities.
In conclusion, the decision to extend the Eid al-Fitr holiday for 2025 is a positive step towards fostering a culture of celebration and family togetherness in Egypt. As the nation gears up for this joyous occasion, the hope is that it will bring happiness and unity to all citizens.
