By Emeka Blast 
UAE Confirms Onset of Rabi Al Awwal
The United Arab Emirates officially marks the start of Rabi Al Awwal, the third month of the Islamic Hijri calendar, today, Monday, August 25, 2025, following the sighting of the crescent moon on Sunday, August 24. The announcement, made by the UAE’s International Astronomy Centre in Abu Dhabi, confirms that the month begins a day later than in some other Arab countries, such as Saudi Arabia, due to the moon not being sighted on Saturday, August 23. This significant month, known for commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is expected to bring a public holiday on September 5, potentially extending into a three-day weekend.
Moon Sighting and Calendar Significance
The UAE follows a meticulous process for determining the start of Islamic months, with the national moon sighting committee convening on the 29th day of each Hijri month to observe the new crescent moon. On Saturday, August 23, the crescent was not visible across the Arab region, even with advanced tools like telescopes and ultra-high-resolution astronomical imaging. However, on Sunday, August 24, astronomers at the Al Khatim Astronomical Observatory in Abu Dhabi successfully captured daytime images of the crescent, confirming the start of Rabi Al Awwal 1447 AH.
Rabi Al Awwal, meaning “the first spring” in Arabic, holds deep significance for Muslims worldwide as it marks the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on the 12th day of the month, known as Mawlid Al-Nabi. The name “first spring” reflects the joy and renewal associated with the Prophet’s birth, though the Islamic lunar calendar’s rotation means the month can fall in any season. This year, the Prophet’s birthday is expected to fall on Friday, September 5, in the UAE, aligning with the weekend and potentially resulting in a three-day holiday for residents, pending official confirmation from UAE authorities.
A Month of Reflection and Celebration
Rabi Al Awwal is a time for Muslims to reflect on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who was born in Makkah in 570 CE and is described in the Qur’an as “a mercy to the worlds” (21:107). The month also marks significant events in Islamic history, including the Prophet’s migration (Hijrah) from Makkah to Madinah and his passing in the 11th year of Islam. While no specific acts of worship are mandated during this month, many Muslims engage in increased prayers, charity, and recitations of Darood Shareef to honor the Prophet’s legacy.
In the UAE, celebrations for Mawlid Al-Nabi often include communal prayers, sermons, and gatherings where stories of the Prophet’s life are shared. Homes and mosques may be decorated with green and gold, symbolizing the colors of Islam, and some communities hold processions or charity drives to embody the Prophet’s teachings of compassion and generosity.
Regional Variations and Public Holiday Expectations
In a rare occurrence, the UAE’s start of Rabi Al Awwal differs from Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries like Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, where the month began on Sunday, August 24, after the crescent was sighted a day earlier. This variation highlights the lunar calendar’s reliance on local moon sightings, which can lead to different start dates across regions. For instance, Bangladesh will observe the start of Rabi Al Awwal on Tuesday, August 26, due to the moon not being visible on Sunday. Consequently, the Prophet’s birthday will likely be celebrated on different dates globally, with September 4 or 5 being the most probable in the UAE.
The anticipated public holiday on September 5, a Friday, could create a three-day weekend for UAE residents, as Saturday and Sunday are standard days off. According to UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024, public holidays falling on weekends can be moved to the start or end of the week to maximize time off, though no official announcement has been made yet regarding this adjustment.
Community and Cultural Impact
The start of Rabi Al Awwal offers UAE residents an opportunity to engage in cultural and religious activities that strengthen community bonds. The month encourages reflection on the Prophet’s Sunnah, including acts of kindness, such as caring for orphans and supporting the less fortunate, which are seen as highly rewarding. The UAE’s diverse population, including expatriates, often participates in these observances, fostering unity and cultural harmony.
As the UAE prepares to celebrate Mawlid Al-Nabi, residents are encouraged to stay updated via official channels for confirmation of the public holiday date. The month of Rabi Al Awwal serves as a reminder of the Prophet’s enduring legacy and his role in guiding humanity toward justice, peace, and compassion.
