What are the Public Holidays in Qatar (2025) ?
The vibrant Kingdom of Qatar has a rich diversity of occasions and festivals that show its vibrant culture. Celebration of the number of festivals in Qatar makes it important to understand their importance in the history of Qatar.
Consequently, these festivals provide an opportunity for residents of Qatar and foreigners travelling there to understand its culture and history. In this blog, we will dwell on the diverse tapestry of public holidays in Qatar. Read the full blog to deep dive into your understanding of Qatar festivals.
Here is the list of public holidays in Qatar in 2025:
| Date | Weekday | Holiday |
| 18 December 2024 | Wednesday | Qatar National Day |
| 1 January 2025 | Thursday | New Year’s Day |
| 11 February 2025 | Wednesday | National Sports Day |
| 31 March – 2 April 2025 | Tuesday – Thursday | Eid Al Fitr |
| 5 – 6 June 2025 | Thursday – Friday | Arafat Day |
| 6 – 10 June 2025 | Friday – Tuesday | Eid al Adha |
| 18 December 2025 | Thursday | Qatar National Day |
| 1 January 2026 | Thursday | New Year’s Day |
Here are the details of Qatar Public Holidays 2025:
New Year (1 January 2025)
According to the Gregorian calendar, Qatar and other countries mark January 1 as the start of the new year. Almost all businesses and corporations including Qatar Central Bank are inoperative on the occasion of New Year. Furthermore, December 31, is when the New Year’s celebration begins with fireworks, parties, get-togethers, etc. Additionally, people set goals for themselves to achieve with their New Year’s resolutions. The traditional culture of making New Year resolutions started nearly 4000 years ago across the countries.
National Sports Day (11 February 2025)
Every year, the second Tuesday in February is celebrated as National Sports Day. Meanwhile, the major purpose of this event is to promote health and well-being among the individuals of Qatar. In 2012, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Deputy Emir and Heir Apparent, announced an order that established the beginning of the celebration of this occasion in Qatar.
Moreover, on the occasion of National Sports Day, several government authorities and private institutions organize various events to make people aware of the importance of sports in our daily lives. The day also is related to Qatar’s 2030 National Vision initiative.
Eid-al-Fitr (31 March – 2 April 2025)
Eid-al-Fitr holds utmost importance in the Islamic calendar. The date of Eid-al-Fitr may vary in different countries as the date depends on the sighting of the moon. This festival marks the end of the entire month of fasting (Ramadan) for Muslims. It is referred to as the “Festival of breaking the fast” for this reason.
Traditionally, Muslims used to offer prayers to the Almighty at this occasion. These prayers are offered in mosques or public areas where people gather. Muslims also offer meals and money to needy people on the day of Eid-al-Fitr. The Prophet and his companions celebrated the first Eid-al-Fitr in 624 CE.
Eid-al-Adha (6 – 10 June 2025)
There are additional names for Eid-al-Adha, including Feast of Sacrifice, Bakra Eid, Hari Raya Haji, and Eid-al-Adha. This festival has the utmost importance for Muslims as it lasts for nearly four days. The history of Eid-al-Adha dates back to the willingness of the Prophet to sacrifice everything for God.
The date may vary in different countries as it depends on the lunar cycle of the moon. On this festival, Muslims sacrifices a cow or another animal. A third of the lunch will be eaten by family members or friends, with the remaining portion donated to those in need. Giving charity to needy people is a key tradition of this festival.
National Day (18 December 18 2025)
National Day is celebrated annually on December 18. It is a national holiday in Qatar and most of the businesses and corporations remain operational. This day holds a major significance in the history of Qatar.
On December 18, 1878 Mohammed bin Thani was succeeded by his son Jassim bin Mohammed Ali Thane as ruler. Several activities are organized on National Day including fireworks, music, and lights. In addition, other organizations hold car shows in Qatar. Patriotic symbols and the Qatar’s national flag are frequently used by people to decorate their homes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these days are considered national holidays in UAE. Also, in recognition of their significance, the majority of businesses and associations close on these days.
So all the above-mentioned public holidays are applicable in Qatar. Thus, you can use this calendar as an example if you’re trying to plan holidays and trips with your loved ones. Moreover, organizations and HR professionals can use the calendar to plan the holidays for their employees accordingly.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
There are five public holidays in Qatar which include New Year, National Sports Day, Eid-al-Fitr, Eid-al-Adha, and National Day.
Friday and Saturday being off. However, most businesses are open on Friday, with just half a day on Thursday.
Eid is probably the most renowned religious event each year, seeing off the fasting period known as Ramadan.
Public holidays in Qatar are celebrated with parades, road shows, rituals and prayers offered to the Almighty.
