A day off for the public and private sectors
Friday 5 September 2025 will be a an official public holiday in the United Arab Emirates, to mark the the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This day, celebrated every year by the Muslim community, is a time of spiritual and family reflection, marked by special prayers and community gatherings.
In Dubai, as in the rest of the country, all the public and private sectors will benefit from this day off, allowing residents and workers to honour the memory of the Prophet and spend time with their families. The choice of a single day for everyone reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening social cohesion and ensuring a balance between spirituality and working life.
Free parking and well-planned urban layout
To mark this public holiday, the Dubai authorities have announced a free public parking throughout the emirate. However, there are two exceptions: the multi-storey car parks and the Al Khail Gate area, where the usual charges will continue to apply.
This measure is intended to make it easier for families and worshippers to travel, enabling them to visit mosques and places of worship freely without any logistical constraints. It also reflects the authorities’ focus on residents’ quality of life, by reducing the financial burden and making travel smoother on special days.
Shops open for a family day out
Unlike some public holidays when shops scale back their operations, 5 September will see the Most shopping centres, restaurants and leisure venues will remain open. This decision enables families to make the most of their day off, by combining times of prayer, moments of fellowship and leisure activities.
Dubai’s shopping centres, already renowned as must-visit destinations, are expected to attract large crowds. Many residents choose to spend part of the day on family outings, combining spirituality with leisure. This trend highlights what makes Dubai unique, as it is able to combine religious tradition and economic dynamism.
A celebration marked on the Islamic calendar
The birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, is one of the important dates in the Islamic calendar. It is celebrated on the twelfth day of the month of Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month of the Hijri calendar. Every year, the faithful mark the occasion with prayers, recitations from the Qur’an and community gatherings.
In the Emirates, this commemoration takes on a special significance, as it is both a a time of collective spirituality and a moment of national break, which is officially recognised by the state. In 2025, the date falls on Friday 5 September, providing a long weekend for families.
A reminder of the values of Dubai and the Emirates
This public holiday also illustrates the Emirates’ commitment to prioritising the religion and tradition at the heart of public life, whilst maintaining a modern and inclusive structure. Free parking, open shops and coordination between the public and private sectors reflect a pragmatic approach, which seeks to to respect traditions whilst supporting economic activity and the well-being of residents.
For Dubai, an international metropolis home to people of over 200 nationalities, the celebration of the Prophet’s birth is also a an opportunity for cultural exchange. Many expatriates are discovering or taking part in these traditions, thereby strengthening their sense of belonging to a diverse community that respects people’s beliefs.
Conclusion: a day combining spirituality and conviviality
The 5 September 2025 will be a a public holiday marking the celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Between prayer times, free parking and shopping centres being open, the day promises to be both spiritual and convivial for the people of Dubai.
This balance between religious values and modern life reflects the very identity of the emirate: a place where tradition and modernity come together harmoniously. For families and expatriates alike, this day will be an opportunity to enjoy a moment of sharing, peace of mind and social cohesion in a city that is constantly changing.
