Are you visiting Saudi Arabia or are you a resident? In either case, you will need to know the public holidays in Saudi Arabia 2025. They often translate to the closure of government offices, businesses, and most public services for a few days to rest, celebrate, and observe cultural activities. Here’s the guide to the major Saudi Arabia public holidays 2025 so you can prepare ahead.
Public Holidays In Saudi Arabia 2025 You Can’t Miss Out
1. Saudi Founding Day – February 22, 2025 (Saturday)
It was a relatively recent addition to the national calendar, declared as an official public holiday only last 2022. It’s celebrated every year on February 22, marking the day that the first Saudi state was established in 1727. It commemorates the day of the establishment of the Kingdom, a day to recall the past and its culture. On this day, expect government offices, businesses, and educational institutions to close down. Since it happens on a Saturday in 2025, the country will have time to reflect on its roots, celebrating unity and progress in the present.
2. Eid al-Fitr Holiday – March 31 – April 3, 2025 (Estimated)
Eid al-Fitr is one of the most prominent holidays in the Islamic world, as it marks the end of Ramadan, the sacred month of fasting. It’s a celebration of feasting, family gatherings, and community celebrations. The dates of Eid al-Fitr depend on the lunar calendar. In 2025, it will probably be on March 31 and April 3. The public institutions and businesses will close their doors for several days so that the residents could take part in the celebration. Special prayers, feasts, and gift-giving are part of the celebrations. Charity work and support towards people in need are also significant. It is a time to enjoy, with shops, restaurants, and entertainment places all filled with special events and offers.
3. Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha Holiday – June 5 – June 9, 2025 (Estimated)
Arafat Day is on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, which is an important day for Muslims because it marks the day pilgrims gather on Mount Arafat in Mecca during the annual Hajj pilgrimage. It is a day of prayers and remorse for Muslims, in return, seeking pardon and reviving themselves. June 6 is Eid al-Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice.” That holiday commemorates how willing Prophet Ibrahim, also Abraham, was to offer to sacrifice his son, all for obedience to God; usually an animal, such as sheep or goats or a cow is sacrificed to depict the sense of faith. This holiday is characterized by feasts, community prayers, and the distribution of meat to those in need.
Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha are likely to take place between June 5 and June 9, 2025. Public institutions and businesses will be closed for several days. This extended holiday marks a time of religious reflection, charity, and family reunions.
4. Saudi National Day – September 23, 2025 (Tuesday)
Saudi National Day is observe on September 23, as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was formed on this day in the year 1932. It is an event that characterized the history of Saudi where all regions in the Arabian Peninsula were joined by King Abdulaziz Al Saud into forming the contemporary Kingdom. On Tuesday in 2025, National Day shall be marked with parades, cultural performances, fireworks, and exhibitions carried out all over the country. The day is celebrated with national pride, as people take festivities in remembering Saudi Arabia’s cultural variety and success. Government offices and most business places will be closed down due to this celebration day to allow public attendance at the national celebrations.
5. Islamic New Year – July 27, 2025 (Estimated)
Of all other great public holidays would be the Islamic New Year – commencing a year in Islamic time. This would fall for approximately July 27, 2025. Being a day to review and hold religious observances. This holiday is still generally more understated compare to Eid. However, expect that most companies and public entities will cease operations for the day to commemorate Islamic functions and their prayers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How many public holidays do employees have in Saudi Arabia?
In 2025, employees in Saudi Arabia are going to enjoy five major public holidays. These holidays include Saudi Founding Day, Eid al-Fitr, Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha, Saudi National Day, and the Islamic New Year. The number of holidays is marginally different each year due to the lunar calendar.
- Is Eid a public holiday in KSA?
Yes, indeed Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are the most significant public holidays in Saudi Arabia.
- Is November 30 a public holiday?
No, November 30 is not a public holiday in Saudi Arabia in 2025. No important holiday falls on this date in the current Islamic calendar.
Conclusion
The Saudi public holidays 2025 include cultural, religious, and national celebrations. Look forward to the festive mood associated with Eid al-Fitr; reflection by Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha; and most importantly, the sense of national pride on Saudi National Day. The holidays offer copious time for rest, celebrations, and connecting with family members and communities. Be sure to mark your calendar and plan your activities accordingly to fully experience the cultural richness of Saudi Arabia in 2025!
