As the dates of Islamic holidays are not fixed, it is best to ask a resident or consult the daily newspapers for information, because holidays are frequently confirmed less than 24 hours in advance. There are some fixed non-Muslim holidays like New Year on 1 January and National Day on 2-3 December. Some Western companies observe Christmas and some embassies may observe Easter.
2014 public holiday dates
New Year – 1 January 2014
Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday * – 14 January 2014
Israa and Miaraj Night* – 27 May 2014
Ramadan – expected to begin 29 June 2014
Eid Al Fitr* – 29 July 2014
Arafat (Hajj) Day* – 4 October 2014
Eid Al Adha* – 5 October 2014
Hijri New Year’s Day* – 25 October 2014
UAE National Day – 2 December 2014
* Islamic holidays (exact date is subject to moon-sighting)
Dining