---
title: "UAE Announces Holiday for 12 Rabi’ al-Awwal"
url: "https:\/\/theislamicinformation.com\/news\/uae-announces-holiday-for-12-rabi-al-awwal\/"
type: "post"
updated: "2026-08-07"
description: "The UAE has declared Friday, August 28, 2026, a paid public holiday for federal and private sector employees to mark 12 Rabi' al-Awwal (1448 AH)."
taxonomies: ["News","United Arab Emirates"]
---

# UAE Announces Holiday for 12 Rabi’ al-Awwal

Source: https://theislamicinformation.com/news/uae-announces-holiday-for-12-rabi-al-awwal/
Updated: 2026-08-07

The UAE Government Media Office has announced that Friday, August 28, 2026, will be observed as a paid public holiday for employees in both the federal government and the private sector to mark 12 [Rabi' al-Awwal](https://theislamicinformation.com/blogs/rabi-al-awwal-important-dates-events/) (1448 AH), commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Because the holiday falls on a Friday, employees who follow the standard Saturday-Sunday weekend will enjoy a three-day break from Friday, August 28, through Sunday, August 30. Work is scheduled to resume on Monday, August 31.

Mawlid Al Nabawi is observed annually on the 12th day of Rabi' al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The occasion commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and is recognized by Muslims around the world.

In many Muslim-majority countries, the day is marked with Quran recitations, religious lectures, sermons, and gatherings reflecting on the Prophet's life, character, and teachings. The observance serves as an opportunity for many Muslims to remember his message of faith, compassion, and good conduct.

As the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, the corresponding Gregorian date of 12 Rabi' al-Awwal changes each year.