A long weekend may be on the cards for UAE residents this September, as the country prepares to mark the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), a public holiday traditionally observed on the 12th of Rabi Al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar.

While the official date will be confirmed by moon sightings closer to the time, astronomers have predicted two likely scenarios for 2025:

• If Rabi Al-Awwal begins on Sunday night, August 24, then the holiday will likely fall on Thursday, September 4, giving residents a mid-week day off.
• If the Islamic month starts on Monday night, August 25, then the 12th of Rabi Al-Awwal would land on Friday, September 5, potentially resulting in a three-day weekend when combined with Saturday and Sunday.

This would be a welcome break following the summer season, offering many the chance to unwind, travel, or spend time with family.

Can the UAE Shift the Holiday?

Under current Cabinet guidelines, most UAE public holidays, excluding Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, can be moved to the beginning or end of the workweek to create longer weekends. If the Prophet’s birthday falls on a Friday, it’s likely to remain as is, offering a natural long weekend.

Why Islamic Holiday Dates Change Every Year

The Hijri (Islamic) calendar is based on lunar cycles, with months lasting 29 or 30 days. This makes the Islamic year around 10–12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, causing holidays to shift earlier each year.

Whether it’s a Thursday pause or a full three-day weekend, residents can look forward to a well-timed break this September, with official confirmation to follow from UAE authorities.

In a proud milestone for the UAE, 17-year-old Fatima Abdulrahman Al Awadhi has become the youngest Emirati to summit Mount Elbrus in Russia, Europe’s tallest peak, standing at a formidable 5,642 metres above sea level.

Her latest climb marks a major step in her pursuit of the prestigious “Seven Summits” challenge, a global mountaineering goal that involves scaling the highest mountain on each continent. The young adventurer had already conquered Africa’s highest point, Mount Kilimanjaro, last year.

Supported by UAE-based Finance House, which champions youth empowerment, Al Awadhi battled through harsh weather conditions and treacherous terrain to raise the UAE flag high on Mount Elbrus. Her achievement sends a powerful message of resilience and ambition to Arab youth, especially young women across the region.

A Dedication to Leadership and Legacy

Al Awadhi dedicated her summit to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, and Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation.” She praised their continuous support for empowering Emirati youth and women, which she says helped fuel her determination.

“Reaching this summit was only possible because of the unwavering support of our leadership,” she said. “I dedicate this achievement to those who taught us that nothing is beyond our reach.”

Beyond the Mountains

More than just a personal mission, Al Awadhi sees her climbs as a platform to inspire social and environmental change. Building on her experience in leadership and volunteering, she plans to launch humanitarian and environmental initiatives aimed at supporting underserved communities and protecting the natural world.

“It is a message that Emirati and Arab youth, especially young women, are capable of leading, exploring and making a meaningful impact,” she said.

A Journey Fueled by Family and Faith

In a heartfelt tribute, Al Awadhi credited her family for their unwavering encouragement. “To my mother, Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi, you are my anchor and my strength,” she shared. “And to my late father, Abdulrahman Al Awadhi, your guidance taught me to aim for the skies with steady steps.”

As she continues her quest to conquer the Seven Summits, Fatima Al Awadhi stands as a powerful symbol of ambition, courage, and the rising spirit of the UAE’s youth.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has dismissed rumours circulating online and in some media reports that claim the UAE is offering lifetime Golden Visas to specific nationalities.

In an official statement, the ICP clarified that the eligibility criteria, categories, and regulations for the UAE’s Golden Visa programme are firmly outlined under federal laws, ministerial resolutions, and official directives. Accurate and up-to-date information is available exclusively via the Authority’s official website and smart application.

The ICP warned residents and global audiences against false claims being made by unverified consultancy offices, particularly those based outside the UAE. These entities have been promoting misleading information suggesting Golden Visas can be secured for all categories under “simplified” conditions through external commercial parties. The Authority emphasised that such statements have no legal basis and were published without prior coordination with UAE officials.

“All Golden Visa applications are processed solely through authorised government channels within the UAE,” the Authority said. “There are no recognised internal or external consultancy firms permitted to accept or process applications on behalf of the ICP.”

It also confirmed that legal action will be taken against individuals or entities attempting to exploit aspiring residents by collecting money through fraudulent claims or unofficial procedures.

The ICP reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining transparency and a secure application environment for all individuals seeking to live, work, or invest in the UAE. It urged the public to avoid paying any fees or sharing personal documents with unauthorised third parties.

Residents and prospective applicants are strongly advised to rely only on official government channels for any visa-related services. For inquiries or to verify any information, individuals can visit www.icp.gov.ae or contact the Authority’s 24/7 call centre at 600 522222.