As 2025 draws to a close, various entities including corporations, banks, and travelers in the Gulf region are gearing up for a series of significant national holidays. These festivities not only celebrate the rich history and culture of each country but also have practical ramifications for business operations, banking schedules, and workforce arrangements. The UAE’s dual commemorative occasions, Oman’s overlapping national days, Qatar’s foundational celebration, and Bahrain’s observance of independence hint at the impact these holidays will have on both the public and private sectors.
Learn more: Exploring upcoming holidays? Here’s the schedule for UAE public holidays in 2025
While countries such as Saudi Arabia and Kuwait will experience minimal disruptions at year-end, the array of celebrations in other Gulf nations emphasizes the necessity for businesses and stakeholders to effectively strategize their operations and logistics in advance. This end-of-year timeframe offers a unique perspective on how Gulf states celebrate national pride while navigating economic and social dynamics.
UAE: Honoring Unity and National Spirit
According to the official portal of the UAE Government, the nation will observe two public holidays in the final quarter of 2025:
- Commemoration Day: November 30, 2025 (Sunday)
- UAE National Day: December 2–3, 2025 (Tuesday and Wednesday)
These holidays, established by a resolution from the UAE Cabinet which governs both public and private sector observances, pay homage to national unity and honor those who have served the nation.
Oman: Celebrating Leadership and Culture
According to information from the Oman News Agency and the Royal Decree on public holidays, Oman will celebrate two consecutive national holidays at the end of 2025:
- Oman National Day: November 18, 2025 (Tuesday)
- Birthday of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq: November 19, 2025 (Wednesday)
These events highlight the country’s unification and respect for its leadership, featuring cultural exhibitions and large-scale public festivities.
Qatar and Bahrain: Foundational and Independence Celebrations
The upcoming national holiday for Qatar, as per the official calendar, is:
- Qatar National Day: December 18, 2025 (Thursday)
This day honors Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani and marks the establishment of the modern state of Qatar.
Bahrain will also celebrate its independence along with its cultural heritage on:
- Bahrain National Day: December 16–17, 2025 (Tuesday and Wednesday)
These two days will see closures across banks, schools, and government ministries, emphasizing the significance of the Al Khalifa family’s leadership.
Saudi Arabia and Kuwait: Limited Year-End Observances
Saudi Arabia’s schedule reveals no public holidays following Saudi National Day on September 23, 2025 (Tuesday), with the next significant holiday, Founding Day, set for February 22, 2026. Similarly, Kuwait has announced no year-end public holidays from October to December 2025, with National Day and Liberation Day celebrations postponed until February 2026.
Overview of Gulf Public Holidays – Final Quarter 2025
| Country | Holiday/Event | Date(s) | Day(s) |
| UAE | Commemoration Day | Nov 30, 2025 | Sunday |
| UAE | National Day | Dec 2–3, 2025 | Tuesday–Wednesday |
| Oman | National Day | Nov 18, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Oman | Sultan Haitham’s Birthday | Nov 19, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Qatar | National Day | Dec 18, 2025 | Thursday |
| Bahrain | National Day | Dec 16–17, 2025 | Tuesday–Wednesday |
| Saudi Arabia | No year-end public holidays | N/A | N/A |
| Kuwait | No year-end public holidays | N/A | N/A |
<pEntities operating in the Gulf region are encouraged to coordinate their schedules, prepare for closures, and make advance plans, as these national celebrations signify not just public holidays but also rich cultural importance and community involvement.