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Insider recommendations, desert packing guides, and curated UAE itineraries written by local safari guides and destination planners.

Desert Wildlife Spotting Guide: Species You Can See on a Conservation Safari
Travel Guide
Sep 05, 2026 5 min read

Desert Wildlife Spotting Guide: Species You Can See on a Conservation Safari

Far from being barren, the sands of Dubai are teeming with life uniquely adapted to arid extremes. Thanks to visionary royal conservation programs over the past three decades, thousands of square kilometers of pristine desert have been cordoned off, allowing once-threatened Arabian wildlife to stage a remarkable recovery. Key Takeaways & Wildlife Highlights The crown jewel of desert fauna is the Arabian Oryx—rescued from near-extinction in the 1970s and now roaming freely in herds across the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Visitors on morning and evening nature drives frequently spot Arabian Sand Gazelles, Arabian Red Foxes, Spiny-Tailed Lizards (Dhub), and Pharaoh Eagle-Owls. The best wildlife viewing occurs between 06:00 AM – 08:00 AM and 17:00 PM – 18:30 PM around desert lakes and native Ghaf tree groves. For high-probability sightings, book our dedicated Al Marmoom reserve expedition led by professional nature guides equipped with field optics. Discover our broad variety of Dubai desert adventures across all wildlife sanctuaries. The Arabian Oryx: The Legend of the Unicorn With its luminous white coat reflecting desert heat and its long, straight spear-like horns that appear as one from profile view, the Arabian Oryx (Al Maha) is widely believed to have inspired the mythological unicorn. Oryx can detect distant rainfall across dozens of kilometers and survive weeks without open water by extracting moisture from succulent roots. Today, Dubai reserves protect over 800 healthy Arabian Oryx, frequently photographed grazing in small bachelor herds during early morning safaris. Native Arabian Wildlife Spotting Matrix Species Name Habitat Type Peak Activity Window Rarity / Conservation Status Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx) Gravel plains & interdunal depressions Dawn (06:00 – 08:00 AM) Vulnerable (Recovered from wild extinction) Arabian Sand Gazelle (Reem) Deep red sand dunes & Ghaf thickets Golden Hour (17:00 – 18:30 PM) Common in protected reserves Arabian Red Fox (Al Tha'lab) Rocky outcrops & camp perimeters Night (21:00 PM – 03:00 AM) Uncommon (Nocturnal hunter) Spiny-Tailed Lizard (Dhub) Hard packed sabkha & limestone burrows Midday sun (11:00 AM – 14:00 PM) Vulnerable (Protected under UAE law) Pharaoh Eagle-Owl Rocky canyon faces (Fossil Rock) Dusk & midnight Rare (Secretive nocturnal raptor) Gazelles of the Dunes: The Nimble Reem and Idmi Dubai is home to two distinct gazelle species: the pale, sand-colored Arabian Sand Gazelle (Reem) and the smaller, darker Mountain Gazelle (Idmi). Weighing just 15 to 20 kilograms, these lithe herbivores can leap over 2 meters high and sustain running speeds of 60 km/h across soft dune faces. Learn how to select conservation operators that respect animal buffer zones in our guide on choosing an eco-friendly desert operator. [tours codes="AUT-DS-08,AUT-DS-14,AUT-DS-21"] Nocturnal Desert Creatures: Life After Sunset When the sun sets and desert temperatures cool down, a fascinating nocturnal ecosystem emerges. Desert hedgehogs forage for beetles, gecko species leave daytime burrows, and the elusive Sand Cat (Felis margarita) hunts small gerbils with padded paws that leave no footprints. Guests staying on an overnight safari can join a guided UV-light scorpion walk to watch desert scorpions glow electric fluorescent green under blacklight. For photography tips on capturing night creatures and constellations, consult our manual on desert astrophotography and golden hour settings. Birdwatching in Desert Wetland Sanctuaries At the Al Qudra and Al Marmoom desert lakes, over 170 bird species congregate along global migratory flyways. Binocular-equipped guests frequently spot Greater Flamingos, Steppe Eagles, Grey Herons, and Black-winged Stilts feeding in the shallows. Book your wildlife encounter on our falconry and raptor safari encounter to view these majestic desert hunters up close.

How to Shoot Golden Hour & Astro-Photography in the Desert (Camera & Smartphone Settings)
Travel Guide
Sep 06, 2026 5 min read

How to Shoot Golden Hour & Astro-Photography in the Desert (Camera & Smartphone Settings)

The vast red dunes of Dubai represent a dreamscape for photographers. The combination of sculptured wind ripples, shifting shadows, and glowing warm light during golden hour produces world-class imagery. Once the sun dips below the horizon, the unpolluted desert skies transform into a canvas for breathtaking astrophotography. Quick Camera Settings & Rule of Thumb For Golden Hour dunes, set your DSLR/mirrorless to Aperture Priority (f/8 to f/11), ISO 100, and underexpose by -0.7 EV to preserve warm crimson highlights without blowing out sky detail. For Milky Way Astrophotography, mount your camera on a sturdy tripod, shoot in Manual mode with your widest lens at f/2.8, Shutter Speed 15–20 seconds, ISO 3200–6400, and manual focus set to infinity. On iPhone/Android, use Night Mode with a 10–30 second tripod exposure and lock AE/AF focus. To experience dark skies away from Dubai's downtown glow, book our overnight desert safari with astronomy stargazing or our luxury dome overnight desert safari camp. Browse all scenic routes in our Dubai desert safari tours catalog. Golden Hour Dune Composition: Angles & Textures Golden hour occurs roughly 45 minutes before sunset (between 17:15 PM and 18:00 PM depending on season). Shoot perpendicular to the setting sun to capture high-contrast cross-lighting that emphasizes the sharp ridge line separating lit sand from dark shadow bowls. Compose with a human silhouette, camel caravan, or sandboarder in the lower third of the frame to establish scale against massive 300-foot dunes. If you are preparing outfits for an editorial shoot, review our style advice in desert clothing and gear advice. Camera & Smartphone Photography Cheat-Sheet Scene / Time Camera Aperture Shutter Speed ISO Setting Smartphone Equivalent Setup Golden Hour Sand Ripples f/8.0 – f/11.0 1/250s – 1/500s ISO 100 Main 1x lens, tap ridge to expose, drag sun slider down Dune Bashing Action Drift f/5.6 – f/8.0 1/1000s – 1/2000s ISO 200 – 400 Burst Mode / Action Mode (locks vehicle in freeze-frame) Blue Hour Camp Lanterns f/2.8 – f/4.0 1/30s – 1/60s ISO 800 – 1600 Portrait Mode with 2-second Night Mode hand-held Milky Way Desert Astrophotography f/1.8 – f/2.8 15s – 20s (Rule of 500) ISO 3200 – 6400 Tripod mounted, Night Mode locked to maximum 30 seconds Preventing Catastrophic Sand Ingress in Camera Gear Fine desert sand in the Lahbab region has an average particle size of just 0.1 to 0.3 millimeters. Never change camera lenses while standing outdoors in the open wind, as microscopic dust grains will adhere permanently to your digital sensor. Always attach a high-quality UV or clear protector filter on your front glass, carry a silicone rocket air blower (never use canned compressed air which can freeze coating), and keep your camera inside a zipped bag when not actively shooting. [tours codes="AUT-DS-03,AUT-DS-21,AUT-DS-17"] Astrophotography Rule of 500 Explained Because the Earth rotates, long exposure star photos can suffer from star trailing if your shutter stays open too long. Calculate your maximum exposure using the 500 Rule: Divide 500 by your lens's full-frame focal length. For example, with a 16mm wide-angle lens, 500 / 16 = 31.25 seconds. To ensure pinpoint stars, set your shutter to 20 seconds at f/2.8 with ISO 3200. Couples seeking romantic night portraits under the stars can read our guide on romantic desert proposal setups. Editing Desert RAW Files: Preserving Natural Tones When processing in Lightroom or Snapseed, avoid over-saturating the reds, which can make dunes look nuclear orange. Instead, balance the white balance toward 5500K – 6200K, gently boost the Dehaze slider by +10, and lower highlights to restore cloud gradients.

The Romantic's Guide to Desert Safaris: Planning Private Dinners & Proposals
Travel Guide
Sep 07, 2026 5 min read

The Romantic's Guide to Desert Safaris: Planning Private Dinners & Proposals

Few settings on Earth rival the drama of the Arabian desert for romantic milestones. As twilight paints red dunes in shades of amber and violet, a secluded, candlelit majlis glowing under a canopy of stars creates the ultimate backdrop for honeymoons, anniversaries, and unforgettable marriage proposals. Direct Answer & Proposal Planning Steps For a completely private romantic experience, avoid commercial group camps and book a bespoke private dune setup. Itineraries include a dedicated luxury 4x4 chauffeur, a secluded red dune plateau illuminated by hundreds of hurricane lanterns, rose petal pathways, live acoustic violin or oud musicians, and a 4-course gourmet dinner prepared by a private chef. Timing the marriage proposal exactly at sunset (between 17:45 PM and 18:00 PM) guarantees magical photography. Reserve our signature couples romantic private desert safari to customize every detail with our event concierge. For couples comparing privacy levels, see our pricing breakdown in ultra-luxury vs standard safari comparisons. Browse all scenic alternatives in our all desert safari experiences hub. Selecting the Ideal Romantic Safari Format Couples can choose between three distinct romantic tiers depending on privacy needs and budget: a VIP table in a luxury camp, a 100% private desert dune dinner, or an overnight luxury glamping dome. While shared VIP camps provide private table waitstaff and stage performances, true proposals are best executed on a secluded private dune completely isolated from music loudspeakers and other tour parties. For couples wishing to fall asleep to unobstructed celestial vistas, explore our premier luxury dome glamping overnight safari featuring plush king-size beds, en-suite bathrooms, and panoramic glass ceilings. Romantic Safari Formats & Inclusions Romantic Tier Privacy Level Setup Elements Dining Style Price Range (AED) VIP Camp Table Moderate (Private table inside 150-guest camp) Reserved stage-front sofas, floral centerpiece Silver-service 3-course BBQ from camp kitchen AED 649 – 750 (for two) Private Dune Dining 100% Total Exclusivity (No other guests) Lantern pathway, torch perimeter, bonfires, live musician Live private chef on-site, 4-course tailored menu AED 1,800 – 3,500 Luxury Overnight Glamping 100% Private (Overnight suite) Climate-controlled dome, telescope, breakfast in bed Sunset private dinner + gourmet morning spread AED 1,599 – 2,800 How to Coordinate a Surprise Marriage Proposal Executing a flawless surprise proposal requires meticulous behind-the-scenes communication between you, your chauffeur, and the on-site event coordinator: 1. The Cover Story: Tell your partner you have booked a standard sunset photo tour. During the initial scenic drive, your driver pulls onto a predetermined high crest ostensibly for "sunset landscape photos." 2. The Big Reveal: As you walk over the dune crest, your partner discovers a glowing candlelit archway decorated with fresh red roses, champagne flutes, and a discreet professional photographer capturing the exact moment you drop to one knee. Ensure your photographer understands golden hour camera settings by reading our expert guide on desert photography guides for couples and proposals. [tours codes="AUT-DS-17,AUT-DS-05,AUT-DS-21"] Customizing Your Romance: Bespoke Enhancements To elevate your celebration, our team can coordinate customized floral arrangements, personalized neon "Will You Marry Me?" signage, private falconry greetings upon arrival, or a live acoustic saxophonist playing your favorite song as twilight settles. Conclude your evening savoring chilled sparkling drinks and warm chocolate lava cake by the crackling embers of your private campfire. Booking Your Milestone Desert Celebration Because private dune setups require custom municipal environmental permits and specialized field catering logistics, we advise reserving your date at least 7 to 14 days in advance. Contact our luxury concierge desk today to start designing your desert love story.

Best Time To Visit Dubai - Complete Research
Travel Guide
Mar 01, 2024 5 min read

Best Time To Visit Dubai - Complete Research

Dubai is one of the most beautiful cities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE ). More than 15.8 million people visit Dubai, keeping the 6th most populated city visited by tourists. Dubai has two seasons hot and hotter. The best time to visit Dubai is between November and April. When the temperature is between 24 to 35°C. keeping the evening warm and night chill.AUT-TH-609, AUT-LI-322 Best Time To Visit DubaiNovember to AprilDubai winter is usually starting month November, and heavy traffic tourism is seen in these months. The weather is pleasant and the best of all outdoor activities. Dubai shopping malls festival held January - February months. you will see in these months Dubai actually crowded. Most of the Dubai festivals and events are held in usually in these months.  The rates of the airline, restaurants, and hotels are usually seen higher in these months.May to OctoberAUT-TH-609, AUT-LI-322The temperature of Dubai usually rises from the month of May up to October, this season knows as peak summer. These months are not good for outdoor activities because the temperature is too high the average is about 42 °C (107.6°F). However, all malls/stores are air-conditioned you visit and do shopping.Here are some recommended tours for your visit:[tours codes="AUT-DE-698,AUT-DH-126,AUT-HE-880"]Or checkout these other options:AUT-TH-609, AUT-LI-322

Dubai Miracle Garden
Travel Guide
Mar 01, 2024 5 min read

Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden, is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a floral retreat amidst the city's hustle. Opening its doors on Valentine's Day in 2013, the garden has since welcomed thousands of visitors from around the globe each month​​. Aesthetic Appeal and Attractions Sprawling over 72,000 square meters, the garden boasts a vibrant display of over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants. As you traverse through, you'll encounter a realm of floral artistry manifested in various meticulously crafted attractions: Emirates A380 Jet: A testament to the grandeur of aviation, this floral rendition of the Emirates A380 aircraft is a sight to behold. The structure, enveloped in a myriad of vibrant blooms, showcases a harmonious blend of technological marvel and natural beauty. Floating Lady: This mesmerizing sculpture, enshrined in a bloom of flowers, creates a surreal visual experience. The Floating Lady seems to glide gracefully amidst a sea of vibrant hues, evoking a sense of serenity and elegance. Smurf’s Village: Step into a whimsical world with the Smurf’s Village attraction. Bringing the beloved Smurf characters to life amidst a floral landscape, this playful village is a delightful sight for visitors of all ages. Floral Clock: Time blooms in the Floral Clock attraction, where a functioning clock is crafted entirely from flowers. The hands of time move amidst a vibrant display of floral artistry, merging practicality with aesthetic appeal. Sunflower Field: Wander through a radiant field of sunflowers, where the bright and cheerful blooms stand tall to greet the sun. This attraction offers a picturesque vista that encapsulates the essence of a sunny day. Umbrella Tunnel: Traverse through a whimsical tunnel adorned with colorful umbrellas. As you walk through, the sky of umbrellas creates a photogenic and playful passageway, offering a burst of color and a unique photographic opportunity​1​. Entertainment Live shows and performances are part of the garden's allure, varying throughout the year to keep the entertainment fresh and engaging. Gastronomic Delights With over 30 food and beverage vendors, the garden ensures visitors have ample choices for refreshments, ranging from water and coffee to a variety of snacks​. Dubai Butterfly Garden Adjacent to the Miracle Garden is the Dubai Butterfly Garden, home to over 15,000 butterflies, making it a perfect next stop for nature enthusiasts​1​. Timings The garden is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., welcoming visitors from early November to the end of May each year, with a seasonal closure from June to October due to the region's high temperatures​2​. Tickets Tickets can be purchased online for around 55 AED for adults, with a slightly lower price for children. It's advisable to purchase tickets online in advance to skip the queue at the entrance​. Route to Dubai Garden Situated in the Dubailand neighborhood on Umm Suqeim Road, the garden is a half-hour drive from Downtown Dubai and the Dubai Mall. Though there's no Metro station nearby, a taxi ride from the Mall of the Emirates Metro Station, which is approximately 6 miles away, is a convenient way to reach the garden​​. Essential Tips: Book your ticket in advance to avoid waiting in line at the entrance. Arriving at opening hours allows you to enjoy the garden sans the crowds, making it ideal for photography. Plan your attire to complement the colorful backdrop if you intend to take photos. If you're looking to capture group photos or solo shots, bringing a small tripod can be handy​1​. Conclusion: Dubai Miracle Garden is not just a visual spectacle but an experience that engages all senses. Whether you're capturing the floral aesthetics, enjoying live performances, or savoring snacks amidst nature, the garden promises a memorable outing. Remember to plan your visit between November and May to witness this blooming marvel in its full glory. Explore More of Dubai: Desert Safari KidZania Dubai Dubai Ice Rink Dubai Dolphinarium

What is Suhoor? What to eat in Sahur?
Travel Guide
Mar 01, 2024 5 min read

What is Suhoor? What to eat in Sahur?

Suhoor or Sahūr is the pre-dawn meal Muslims take in the month of Ramazan. Suhoor also called Sehri, Suhui, Sahari, and Sahur in other languages. On the day of fasting Muslims eat before the Fajr Azan and do fasting till Azan e Maghrib. Suhoor is a very important meal to do as a faster. So the can have enough energy for the day to work. Sahur is the last meal eaten by Muslims before fasting from the dawn to sunset. According to a hadith in Sahih al-Bukhari, Anas ibn Malik narrated, The Prophet S.A.A.W said, ‘take suhoor as there is a blessing in it In Suhoor it’s good to consume a meal in moderation. The meal must contain all nutrients for the bodies including carbs, protein, vitamins, minerals, and water with easily digestible foods so your stomach doesn’t burst. The right way to eat a meal during Suhoor is to eat in moderation. Many people skip Suhoor however, this is not favored by Allah (SWT) because those who skip Suhoor find it difficult to complete their fast and end up breaking it. Suhoor is the right time to consume a meal and fill yourself adequately so that you can fast throughout the day. Traditionally Sahoor is much more than just a meal. In the holy month of Ramzan, friends, and families get together at Sahoor or Iftar for having the meals together as it’s a wonderful memory to share with each other. They pray together, enjoy, eating, playing games (ludoo, carom board, etc) and by helping each other in preparing a meal. Dua of Suhoor وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَّوَيْتَ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ Wa bi-sawmi ghadin nawaytu min shahri ramadan I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan What’s the best food to eat in Suhoor? Try these foods to eat in Suhoor to stay hydrated and energized the whole day Dates ( Recommended by Prophet Muhammad S.A.A.W) Eggs OatMeal Fish Chicken Fruits & Vegetables Peanut Butter or Nuts Yogurt

How to tie the Arabic headscarf
Travel Guide
May 08, 2024 5 min read

How to tie the Arabic headscarf

You’ve seen the traditional Arab headdress before. Fashioned from a rectangle scarf usually made of cotton, the ghutra, as it is known (in Arabic, it’s كوفية‎‎ kūfiyyah), is commonly worn by men in the UAE. In this post, we elaborate on how to tie the Arabic headscarf. When visiting Dubai, understanding the ghutra serves many practical purposes. It protects against sunburn. Typically the color white, the ghutra also keeps you cool during hot days. Or, on cold nights, you can get a thick one for warmth. Also, the ghutra offers protection against dust and sandstorms, which comes in handy, especially if you go on a desert safari on the outskirts of Dubai. Now you understand why the Bedouin has worn these headdresses for ages. And you probably want to wear one, too. TYING THE ARABIAN HEADSCARF Just know that you have to learn how to tie the ghutra first. Here’s your how-to: https://youtu.be/e2HmchiOBVI?si=U3axSlR5LAONbZR3 1. Fold the ghutra To start, half-fold the ghutra. Do not fold it in half—rather, fold one end to the halfway point. 2. Place the ghutra on your head When you put the ghutra on your head, place the folded half over the top of your head. The unfolded half should be on the back of your head and neck. 3. Twist the two ends There are two ends hanging down over the front of your body. Give both sides two turns moving in the outwards direction (not in toward your body). 4. Pull the two ends over your back and cross It’s time to showcase your flexibility. Pull the two ends over your shoulders and cross them behind your head and neck. Doing this provides the ghutra with the signature bulge at the bottom of the headdress. 5. Bring the two ends back to the front Once the two ends have been twisted and crossed, bring them back to the front side of your body (one dangling over your left side and one over your right side). 6. Wrap one end around your head Now it’s time to really test your coordination. Take one end and wrap it over your forehead and around the back. Tuck and squeeze it into a pocket on the back of your lower head.Note: Lines, or layers, are important to how the ghutra looks. Great ones can get 10-plus lines, which can be hard for beginners. Try for two lines or layers of cloth for the first end. 7. Wrap the second end around your head The second end is what will be mostly seen by others. Wrap it around in the same manner. Again, try for two lines. Another thing you can do here is slide the end through to create a tail-like appearance on the side. After that, check the back and front to make sure it all looks all right. Chances are you may need to try this process a few times before getting good. Remember: Practice makes perfect. IT’S TIME TO WEAR YOUR GHUTRA! You’ve read the instructions. Next time you come to the UAE, put your skills to the test. You’ll not only look awesome and feel cozy, you’ll impress folks with your capabilities. Plus, if you go on one of our desert safaris, we’ll gift you one (and if you still can’t do it, don’t worry, we’ll help you)

How to greet in Arabic
Travel Guide
May 08, 2024 5 min read

How to greet in Arabic

When you visit Dubai, embracing the local language adds a layer of cultural immersion. Familiarizing yourself with Arabic phrases, especially those related to greetings, enriches your experience of the renowned Arab hospitality. From the moment you meet someone until you bid farewell, the warmth of Dubai's hospitality surrounds you. It's more than just saying "hello." It's the gesture of Arabic coffee and the offering of rose water that make you feel truly welcome. Reciprocating this hospitality is a simple way to connect with the people of Dubai. Understanding a bit of Arabic etiquette can enhance your interactions. For example, when men greet each other with a handshake, they often come face-to-face, allowing their noses to touch. It's customary to use the right hand, as the left is considered unclean. How to Greet in Arabic 1. Saying "Hello" As-salaam ‘alykum – This common greeting means "peace be upon you." It reflects the essence of surrender to the will of God. For Muslims, it signifies their religious identity. Non-Muslims can use it with Arabs they know well. The reply to this greeting is "Wa ‘alaykum as-salaam," meaning "peace be upon you too." Ahlan – A versatile greeting suitable for any time of the day. Approach the person with hands together and kiss them on the cheeks while saying "Ahlan." Traditionally, men kiss men and women kiss women, but this depends on the relationship. The more formal version is "Ahlan Wa Sahlan" (welcome). Reply with "Ahlan bik" to a male or "Ahlan biki" to a female. For a group, say, "Ahlan bikum." Marhaba (Welcome) – Derived from "rahhaba," meaning "to welcome." The common replies are "Marhaban bik," "Marhaban biki," and "Marhaban bikum" for a male, female, and a group respectively. 2. Time-specific Greetings Sabah al-khayr – Meaning "good morning." There are several replies to this greeting, with the most common being "Sabah an-noor," meaning "morning of light" or expressing joy, beauty, or positivity. Misa’ al-khayr – Equivalent to "good evening," with a similar range of replies as the morning greeting. Tisbah ‘ala khayr – Used to wish "good night," meaning "wake up to the good." The reply is "Wa anta/anti min ahloo," conveying the wish to be among the good. Arabic Coffee and Rose Water Arab hospitality extends beyond words to include gestures like offering rose water and Arabic coffee. Rose water, a Bedouin tradition, is poured over your hands upon arrival to refresh guests. Arabic coffee is offered in two ways: half a cup if you're welcome to stay longer, and a full cup if it's time to leave.

UAE Public Holidays 2023
Travel Guide
Mar 01, 2024 5 min read

UAE Public Holidays 2023

UAE Holidays for the year 2022 have been updated. Below is the UAE Public Holidays 2022 based on the official UAE government. There are two types of public holidays in the UAE. Fixed holidays (such as National Day or New Year's Day) Islamic holidays are subject to moon sightings, and their dates vary each year. DateDayHoliday1 JanSatNew Year's Day30 AprSatEid al-Fitr Holiday1 MaySunEid al-Fitr Holiday2 MayMonEid al-Fitr3 MayTueEid al-Fitr Holiday4 MayWedEid al-Fitr Holiday8 JulFriArafat Day9 JulSatEid al-Adha10 JulSunEid al-Adha Holiday11 JulMonEid al-Adha Holiday30 JulSatIslamic New Year8 OctSatProphet Muhammad's Birthday1 DecThuCommemoration Day2 DecFriNational Day3 DecSatNational Day Holiday There are two types of public holidays in the UAE 2021. Fixed holidays (such as National Day or New Year's Day) Islamic holidays are subject to moon sightings, and their dates vary yearly. UAE Public Holidays 2021 United Arab Emirates/Public holidays (2021) New Year's Day Fri, 1 Jan 2021 Prophet's Ascension Likely 10 – 11 Mar 2021* Eid al-Fitr Eve Likely Wed, 12 May 2021 Eid al-Fitr Likely 12 – 15 May 2021* Day of Arafat Likely 18 – 19 Jul 2021* Eid al-Adha Likely 19 – 22 Jul 2021* Islamic New Year Likely 9 – 10 Aug 2021* Prophet's Birthday Likely 18 – 19 Oct 2021* Commemoration Day Tue, 30 Nov 2021 National Day Thu, 2 Dec 2021 Bookmark the page and keep checking we will update it if there is any update on holidays. UAE Public Holidays 2020 DateDayHoliday1 JanWedNew Year's Day24 MaySunEid al-Fitr25 MayMonEid al-Fitr Holiday26 MayTueEid al-Fitr Holiday30 JulThuArafat Day31 JulFriEid al-Adha1 AugSatEid al-Adha Holiday2 AugSunEid al-Adha Holiday23 AugSunIslamic New Year29 OctThuProphet Muhammad's Birthday1 DecTueCommemoration Day2 DecWedNational Day3 DecThuNational Day Holiday Source: government.ae