The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has officially announced the Eid Al Fitr holiday dates for federal government employees, marking the joyous conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan. The holidays will span from 1st to 3rd Shawwal 1446 AH, with official work set to resume on 4th Shawwal. This announcement was made on March 17, 2025, providing clarity for the employees of the federal sector across the UAE.
According to FAHR, if Ramadan lasts for 30 days, employees will enjoy an additional public holiday on the 30th day of Ramadan, effectively extending the festive break. FAHR stated, "The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) today issued a circular announcing the Eid Al-Fitr holiday for the federal government sector will be observed from 1st to 3rd Shawwal 1446 AH, with official work resuming on 4th Shawwal." This communication reinforces the authority's role in informing government employees of their holiday schedule and its importance.
Eid Al Fitr celebrations mark the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting, making the holiday particularly significant for the Muslim community. The exact dates of Eid depend on the moon sighting committee, which is scheduled to meet on March 29, to confirm the beginning of Shawwal. If the crescent moon is sighted on March 29, Eid is likely to commence on Sunday, March 30, resulting in the holiday period running from March 30 to April 1. Conversely, if Ramadan lasts for 30 days, the holiday will start on March 31, extending the break until April 2.
The official timetable is as follows: should Ramadan conclude as planned on March 30, many employees will enjoy three days off, returning to work on Thursday, April 3. There are provisions for some government employees, especially those whose weekends begin on Friday, to experience even longer breaks, with some receiving up to six days off depending on the local holiday calendar.
"If Ramadan concludes with 30 days, the 30th of Ramadan will be observed as an additional public holiday, thereby extending the Eid Al-Fitr break," FAHR expressed, emphasizing the potential for added festivities depending on the lunar observations. The cultural significance of Eid Al Fitr is highlighted not only by the holiday itself but also by the communal spirit it fosters among the UAE's diverse population.
FAHR conveyed warm wishes to the UAE government, citizens, residents, and the broader Arab and Islamic nations, hoping for “continued prosperity and well-being.” This statement encapsulates the core values during the season, reflecting gratitude and unity within communities.
The moon sighting committee's role remains pivotal, underscoring how the Islamic calendar aligns closely with lunar cycles. This year, if Ramadan is confirmed to last for the full 30 days, Shawwal will commence on March 31, resulting effectively in public holidays from March 31 to April 2. The preparations for Eid Al Fitr celebrations will soon commence once the official announcement is made.
The Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities will oversee the moon sighting activities. With Ramadan commencing on March 1 this year, the official start of Shawwal could mean significant holiday planning for families and government employees eagerly anticipating their time off.
Local employment policies around Eid vary, with some employers offering additional incentives to workers around the holiday season. Many private companies also follow the federal sector's example, ensuring their employees enjoy the holidays as part of the shared cultural celebration. This creates overarching support for workers as they observe this key religious occasion.
Though the moon sighting will determine the exact starting date of Shawwal, the community is gearing up for the festivities characteristic of Eid, from morning prayers to family gatherings and festive meals. Many people take this time to give back to the community, with acts of charity being integral to the celebrations.
The expected public holiday schedule will allow people to travel and participate in celebrations either at home or abroad. Those who plan to travel are preparing for the busy departure days expected before the holiday, utilizing the extended time to reconnect with family and friends.
Conclusively, this upcoming Eid Al Fitr is anticipated to bring joy and communal harmony across the UAE. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has provided important detail about the holiday, ensuring employees can prepare accordingly for this significant religious and cultural event.
