Saudi Arabia Public Holidays: Traditions, Dates, and Travel Tips
Saudi Arabia, a land rich in culture, history, and religious traditions, has a unique approach to public holidays. These holidays reflect the country’s Islamic heritage and play an important role in shaping its social and economic life. For residents and travelers alike, understanding Saudi Arabia’s public holidays is essential for planning work schedules, school activities, and even vacations. In this guide, we’ll delve into the details of Saudi Arabia’s public holidays in 2025, weekly breaks, school holidays, traditions, and tips for travelers.
Saudi Arabia Public Holidays 2025!
Planning your year around public holidays is essential for arranging family time, trips, or just some personal relaxation. In Saudi Arabia, public holidays are deeply rooted in Islamic traditions and national pride. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the 2025 holiday calendar, including some insights into the significance of each event, ways to celebrate, and helpful tips to make the most of these days.
Saudi Arabia Public Holidays 2025 With Hijri (Arabic) months (All Dates)
Saudi National Day – September 23, 2025 (9 Rabi’ al-Thani 1447)
Foundation Day – February 22, 2025 (12 Sha’ban 1446)
Eid al-Fitr – April 21 to April 24, 2025 (4 days) ⁓ 23 Ramadan 1446 to 26 Ramadan
Arafat Day – June 27,2025 (29 Dhu al-Qi’dah 1446)
Eid al-Adha – June 28 to June 30, 2025 (3 days) ⁓10 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 to 12 Dhu al-Hijjah 14460
1. Foundation Day – February 22 (1 Day)
Significance:
Foundation Day celebrates the founding of the first Saudi state in 1727 by Imam Muhammad bin Saud. This holiday is a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s rich history, resilience, and cultural heritage.
How it’s Celebrated:
- Cultural Events: Expect parades, historical reenactments, and festivals showcasing traditional Saudi clothing, music, and cuisine.
- Family Gatherings: Many families use this day to explore historical landmarks or participate in events at museums and cultural centers.
- Special Sales: Retailers often offer discounts and promotions on this day, making it a great time for shopping.
Tips:
- Visit Riyadh to experience large-scale celebrations and historical exhibits.
- Wear traditional Saudi attire, such as the thobe and abaya, to join in the cultural spirit.
2. Eid al-Fitr – April 21 to April 24 (4 Days)
Significance:
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting and spiritual reflection for Muslims. It’s a joyous occasion centered on gratitude, community, and generosity.
How it’s Celebrated:
- Morning Prayer: Families gather for special Eid prayers at mosques or designated open areas.
- Feasting: Lavish meals, including traditional dishes like kabsa and sambusa, are prepared and shared.
- Charity: Giving zakat al-fitr (charity) to the less fortunate is a significant part of Eid.
- Visiting Loved Ones: It’s customary to visit relatives and exchange gifts, especially for children, who often receive Eidiyyah (money or gifts).
Tips:
- Plan travel early if you’re visiting popular destinations within Saudi Arabia, as this is a peak holiday period.
- Try traditional Eid desserts like ma’amoul (date-filled cookies).
- Dress modestly but festively to reflect the joyous nature of Eid.
3. Arafat Day – June 27 (1 Day)
Significance:
Arafat Day is observed during the annual Hajj pilgrimage. It’s the day when pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat for prayer and reflection, symbolizing the culmination of their spiritual journey.
How it’s Observed:
- For Pilgrims: This is the most important day of Hajj, marked by long hours of prayer and supplication.
- For Others: Muslims worldwide fast on this day, seeking blessings and forgiveness.
Tips:
- If you’re not performing Hajj, consider fasting to observe the day and engaging in personal reflection.
- Watch live broadcasts of the Hajj rituals to connect with the spiritual significance of the event.
4. Eid al-Adha – June 28 to June 30 (3 Days)
Significance:
Eid al-Adha, or the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah. It’s a time for spiritual reflection, gratitude, and generosity.
How it’s Celebrated:
- Animal Sacrifice: Many families sacrifice a goat, sheep, or cow, with the meat distributed among family, friends, and the needy.
- Community Gatherings: Families and communities come together for prayers, feasts, and celebrations.
- Visiting Relatives: Like Eid al-Fitr, it’s a time to reconnect with loved ones and exchange gifts.
Tips:
- If you’re visiting Saudi Arabia during this holiday, experience the festive atmosphere in cities like Mecca or Medina, but be prepared for large crowds.
- Participate in charitable activities to share the blessings of the occasion.
5. Saudi National Day – September 23 (1 Day)
Significance:
Saudi National Day celebrates the unification of the Kingdom in 1932 by King Abdulaziz. It’s a day of national pride and celebration of the country’s achievements.
How it’s Celebrated:
- Fireworks: Spectacular displays light up the skies in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.
- Cultural Performances: Traditional dances like the Ardah are performed at public events.
- Decorations: Buildings and streets are adorned with green lights and Saudi flags.
- Free Events: Parks, malls, and cultural centers often host free activities and concerts.
Tips:
- Wear green or display the Saudi flag to join the celebrations.
- Plan your day early to avoid traffic congestion, especially in larger cities.
Key Notes for 2025
- Islamic Holidays and Moon Sightings:
Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are determined by the lunar calendar, so dates may shift slightly depending on the sighting of the moon. Stay updated with announcements closer to the holidays. - Travel Advisory:
Public holidays, especially Eid, are peak travel periods in Saudi Arabia. Book flights, accommodations, and transportation well in advance to avoid last-minute price surges. - Cultural Respect:
While public holidays are a great time to explore Saudi culture, remember to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of prayer times when planning activities.
Holiday in Saudi Arabia Today
Curious if today is a public holiday? Use these tools for real-time updates:
- Google Search: Typing “Is today a holiday in Saudi Arabia?” provides instant results.
- Local News Websites: Trusted outlets like Arab News or Saudi Gazette often publish holiday updates.
- Community Notices: Expats and residents share local holiday announcements on platforms like Expatriates.com or Facebook Groups.
Understanding today’s holiday status can help you navigate closures or crowds, particularly in shopping malls, public parks, or tourist attractions.
Is Tomorrow a Public Holiday in Saudi Arabia?
Staying informed about public holidays can be challenging for residents and visitors. Fortunately, there are reliable ways to check if tomorrow is a public holiday:
- Official Government Websites: The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development often updates public holiday announcements.
- Mobile Apps: Apps like “Saudi Calendar“ and “Qibla Finder“ include holiday schedules and alerts.
- Social Media: Follow official accounts like @SaudiNews50 on Twitter for timely updates.
Knowing whether a holiday falls on the next day helps with planning outings, business meetings, or school commitments.
Weekly Holiday in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, the weekend officially falls on Friday and Saturday, a schedule aligned with Islamic practices and global business trends.
- Friday holds religious significance as the day of congregational prayers (Jumu’ah), making it the cornerstone of the weekend.
- Saturday complements Friday as a rest day, allowing a two-day break for schools, businesses, and government offices.
Impact on Business Hours and Schools:
- Banks and government offices operate Sunday through Thursday, typically from 9 AM to 3 PM.
- Shopping malls and restaurants, however, often open late into the night, even on weekends, especially during holidays or the holy month of Ramadan.
- Schools follow a five-day schedule, with weekends strictly observed for family time and leisure.
For travelers, this schedule may differ from their home country’s, so it’s crucial to plan activities accordingly.
School Holidays in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s school calendar includes several breaks throughout the year:
- Summer Vacation: Typically spans from mid-June to late August.
- Mid-Term Breaks: Occur in January and March, each lasting about 1-2 weeks.
- Eid Holidays: Students get extended breaks during Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
For families, understanding school holidays is vital for planning vacations or childcare arrangements.
Saudi Arabia Holidays and Traditions
Saudi Arabia’s public holidays are deeply rooted in Islamic traditions:
- Ramadan:
- A month of fasting, prayer, and charity.
- Businesses reduce working hours, and Iftar meals at sunset bring communities together.
- Eid al-Fitr:
- Marks the end of Ramadan with feasting, gift-giving, and family gatherings.
- Eid al-Adha:
- Known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” it commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. Livestock sacrifices and large family meals are common.
These holidays emphasize the importance of faith, family, and generosity in Saudi culture.
Saudi Arabia Holiday Packages
For travelers, Saudi Arabia’s public holidays are excellent opportunities to explore the kingdom. Here’s how to find the best holiday packages:
- Plan Around Peak Seasons:
- Visit during winter holidays (November to February) for cooler weather.
- Avoid peak travel during Ramadan unless you wish to experience the cultural aspects of fasting.
- Popular Destinations:
- Riyadh: Explore the National Museum and Al Masmak Fortress.
- Jeddah: Relax by the Red Sea or shop in traditional souks.
- AlUla: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra.
- Budget-Friendly Tips:
- Book flights and hotels early to secure lower prices.
- Use local travel agencies for deals on guided tours.
FAQs
What are the weekly holidays in Saudi Arabia?
Friday and Saturday are the official weekend days.
How can I check if tomorrow is a public holiday in Saudi Arabia?
Use government websites or apps like Saudi Calendar for updates.
When is Saudi National Day celebrated?
Saudi National Day is on September 23.
What are the major Islamic holidays in Saudi Arabia?
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are the two main Islamic holidays.
When is Foundation Day in Saudi Arabia?
Foundation Day is celebrated on February 22.
What is the school holiday schedule in Saudi Arabia?
It includes summer vacation, mid-term breaks, and Eid holidays.
Are businesses closed during public holidays?
Yes, most businesses close during public holidays, but malls and restaurants may remain open.
What is the significance of Eid al-Adha?
It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son for God.
Where can I find budget-friendly holiday packages in Saudi Arabia?
Local travel agencies and early bookings often provide the best deals.
What are the best destinations to visit during public holidays in Saudi Arabia?
Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla are top destinations for travelers.
Finally, Understand This!
Saudi Arabia’s public holidays offer a unique blend of religious observance, cultural pride, and festive celebrations. Whether you’re a resident planning your schedule or a traveler seeking to immerse yourself in Saudi culture, understanding these holidays can make your experience more enriching.
From the weekly break on Friday and Saturday to major events like Saudi National Day and Foundation Day, every holiday is a reflection of the kingdom’s heritage. Plan ahead, embrace the traditions, and enjoy the beauty of Saudi Arabia during its holidays.
