Dubai Financial Market Reveals 2025 Eid al-Fitr Holiday Break

Mar, 26 2025

Dubai Financial Market's 2025 Eid al-Fitr Holiday Plans

The Dubai Financial Market (DFM) has laid out its plans for the Eid al-Fitr holiday in 2025. This anticipated period marks the close of Ramadan, a month of fasting and spiritual reflection for Muslims globally. In line with the rest of the country, the DFM will observe a shutdown from Sunday, March 30, to Tuesday, April 1, providing a break for the market's operations.

This holiday schedule, released through DFM's official announcements, coincides with the closure observed by the UAE's private sector. However, an important aspect to consider is that, given Ramadan's reliance on lunar sightings, these dates are not carved in stone. The potential exists for the holiday to extend to April 2 if the holy month stretches to 30 days.

Impact on Market Activities

During this time, all trading and settlement activities will come to a halt across the securities market. It's crucial to note that while activities in the securities market pause, derivatives contracts remain unimpacted. The pause will align with the standard weekend break in the UAE, occurring on Saturday and Sunday. Consequently, the markets will resume their hustle on Wednesday, April 2.

On a broader spectrum, NASDAQ Dubai, which shares the foundation with the DFM, will also join in this festive break. Employers across sectors will do well to disseminate this information clearly among staff. With the potential for an extra day off hinging on the final moon sighting report, companies may need to stay agile and prepared for last-minute transitions.

This announcement is in continuity with the practice where Islamic holidays, known for their tentative status, may be readjusted by further circulars. This flexibility in scheduling acknowledges the traditional religious practices that mark the end of Ramadan, with moon sighting being core to such observances.

Thus, as the Eid al-Fitr 2025 approaches, the DFM and stakeholders prepare to adapt to the entwined nature of business schedules and spiritual observances.