The United Arab Emirates has officially announced that Eid al-Fitr 2025 will begin on Sunday, March 30, marking the end of Ramadan. This announcement follows the confirmation of the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon on the evening of Saturday, March 29, 2025, by the UAE Moon-sighting Committee, which is composed of astronomers, court officials, and advisers from the Emirates' Islamic authority.
As Ramadan concludes, UAE residents and citizens will enjoy an extended holiday period from March 29 to April 1, 2025, which includes the weekend. The holiday will officially last from Shawwal 1 to 3, with work resuming on Shawwal 4, which falls on April 2, 2025. This means that for those who typically have Saturday and Sunday off, they will enjoy a five-day break.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has confirmed that the Eid al-Fitr holiday will be a paid leave for all private-sector employees, aligning with the federal government’s announcement. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) also stated that the holiday for the federal government sector will be observed from Shawwal 1 to 3, with work beginning again on Shawwal 4.
Eid al-Fitr, which translates to the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is one of the two major holidays celebrated in Islam, marking the end of the month-long fasting period of Ramadan. This occasion is celebrated with a mix of religious devotion, cultural traditions, and family gatherings. The day typically begins with the Eid prayer, performed in mosques and designated outdoor prayer areas across the country.
Families often dress in their finest attire, exchanging greetings of “Eid Mubarak,” and partake in cherished customs such as “Eidiyah,” where money is given to children as a symbol of joy and prosperity. Homes are decorated in anticipation of the holiday, and communal feasts bring together relatives and friends. Popular dishes during Eid include “ouzi,” a slow-cooked rice and meat dish, along with sweets like luqaimat, deep-fried dumplings drizzled with date syrup.
In a notable technological advancement, the UAE Council for Fatwa has employed AI-powered drones to assist in the moon sighting for the Shawwal crescent this year. This innovative approach underscores the UAE's commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology for religious observances. Drones were deployed from Al-Khatim Astronomical Observatory, equipped with high-precision lenses that rose over 300 meters above ground to ensure optimal visibility of the moon.
These drones utilize AI to analyze images and process data, determining the crescent's visibility with remarkable precision. This method aims to overcome challenges that might obstruct visual sighting, ensuring atmospheric clarity necessary for accurate observation. The council has become the first in the world to utilize such advanced technology for moon sighting, having previously employed it for observing the Ramadan crescent.
The International Astronomical Center had earlier stated that sighting the crescent moon on March 29 would be impossible from the eastern part of the world, and visibility would be challenging even with telescopes in many regions. However, the moon was confirmed visible from the Pacific Ocean to the western United States.
As the UAE prepares for this festive occasion, the spirit of gratitude and unity remains central to the celebrations. Public spaces, including malls and streets, will be adorned with festive lights, lanterns, and crescent moon motifs, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. Beauty salons are expected to be fully booked in the days leading up to Eid as many prepare for the festivities.
During Eid al-Fitr, charitable giving is emphasized, with many participating in acts of kindness to ensure that those in need can share in the joy of the occasion. This reflects the core values of compassion and community that are integral to the holiday.
In Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced changes to public transport timings during the holiday, with the Dubai Metro running for an extra hour each day. Parking will also be free across the city from March 30 to April 1, making it easier for families to enjoy the holiday festivities without the hassle of parking fees.
The Eid al-Fitr celebrations are not only a time for family and friends to come together but also serve as a reminder of the importance of community and giving back. The UAE's unique blend of tradition and modernity shines through in its celebration of this significant occasion, making it a time of joy and reflection for all.
As the holiday approaches, residents are encouraged to engage in the spirit of Eid by visiting family and friends, participating in community events, and embracing the festive mood that envelops the nation.
