The Khatm Astronomical Observatory in Abu Dhabi successfully captured the final crescent moon of the Islamic month of Safar on August 12. Since the crescent was not visible to the naked eye that evening, it has been confirmed that Safar will conclude with a 30th day. Consequently, the new month of Rabi Al Awwal is set to officially begin on Friday, August 14.

With the start of the month determined, attention now turns to the observance of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, which traditionally falls on the 12th of Rabi Al Awwal. Based on the new lunar calendar start date, this would correspond to August 25, though the UAE government has yet to issue an official confirmation regarding the holiday. Notably, under the nation's updated labor laws, officials have the flexibility to shift public holidays to the beginning or end of the week to provide employees with extended breaks, building on the previously announced holiday schedule for 2026.