UAE News Roundup: Public Holiday, Weather Alerts, and Key Events for 5 September 2025

Friday, 5 September 2025 stands out as more than a day off—it’s a key public holiday across the UAE, affecting families, commuters, and businesses throughout the country. Expect the usual hustle at malls and attractions, but plan for slower journeys with an orange rain alert in Dubai, and local traffic likely to surge around event venues and busy expressways.

Today’s news roundup covers everything you need: public holiday operations, up-to-date rain alerts, smart airport tips, and highlights of major events drawing large crowds. Whether you’re figuring out parking, navigating school updates, or planning indoor family activities, you’ll find timely details and clear advice here. For those wanting deeper answers or guidance on any UAE public holiday, city event, or airport process, we’ve included quick links to UAEThrive’s comprehensive guides throughout this post—helping you stay one step ahead on this busy UAE holiday.

UAE Public Holiday: What to Expect on 5 September 2025

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Friday, 5 September 2025 marks a significant public holiday across the UAE as residents celebrate Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday. This much-awaited day off brings a unique mix of excitement, busy hotspots, and changing city routines. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a quiet catch-up at home, or still need to work, knowing what to expect will help you prepare and avoid any surprises. Below is what today looks like across the Emirates, from business hours to the pulse of the city.

Official Announcement and Community Impact

The UAE government declared Friday, 5 September 2025 as a paid public holiday for the private sector, recognising Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday. This not only offers a long weekend for many but also signals a shift in how the city operates for the day.

• Most malls and family attractions open early and often extend hours to serve the surge of visitors.
• Government offices and some service centres observe reduced hours or close altogether.
• Supermarkets, pharmacies, and essential services continue regular or extended operation, but it’s wise to check in advance for local variations.
• Expect local transport providers to adjust schedules, as Friday holiday demand creates extra pressure on buses, taxis, and especially the Metro near main attractions.

For families mapping out activities, this is the ideal time to jump into the weekend with special events and unique offers that typically accompany UAE public holidays.

What’s Open, What’s Closed, and Why That Matters

Having a clear sense of what’s available today can help you dodge crowds and make the most of your day.

• Retail and Dining: Nearly all shopping centres and restaurants are open, with many offering holiday deals. Reservations are strongly recommended.
• Government and Banks: Most government departments close or run shortened hours. Most banks may close branches but keep ATMs and app services available.
• Parking: Many paid parking zones in Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer free parking, though not everywhere. Always check posted signs to avoid fines.
• Special Events: Indoor play parks, museums, and cinemas launch exclusive packages or themed events for families.

If you’re keen to learn about nuances in holiday scheduling, including how some businesses manage extra time off, you can explore tips in the guide to Eid al-Fitr leave guidance in the UAE.

Weather and City Pulse: Navigating a Rainy Holiday

Today’s festive mood has a twist. The National Centre of Meteorology issued an orange alert for Dubai, forecasting heavy rain spells throughout the day. RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) advises planning for slick roads, reduced speed limits, and potential bottlenecks.

Key reminders:

• Allow for longer commutes, especially near malls or popular destinations.
• Watch for temporary road changes and use live traffic apps.
• For schools, double-check for updates on start and end times during weather disruptions.

You can monitor updates and live mapping from local authorities. Take a look at official coverage like the heavy rain advisory and orange alert in Dubai for more on today’s forecast.

Table: UAE Public Holiday 5 September 2025 Essentials

Aspect	Status/Recommendation
Private Sector Holiday	Paid day off for most employees
Malls & Retail	Open, extended hours, high visitor turnout
Government Offices	Closed or reduced hours
Schools	Some may adjust timings (check updates)
Parking	Often free in select zones (check signs)
Weather	Orange rain alert, expect delays
Transport	Metro/buses busy, drive with caution

For those working or managing business operations today, keep an eye on how the holiday alters staffing and customer routines. This can be a chance to collect data and develop more flexible business practices for future public holidays.

Why the Public Holiday on 5 September 2025?

Unlike many countries, UAE public holidays can shift yearly according to the Islamic calendar. This year, the government marked September 5 as the nationwide holiday in honour of Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation made the formal announcement (read the official update here).

If you need a summary of the significance and background on this holiday, Middle East Briefing also covers the reasoning and impact on business operations in their detailed overview of the September 5 public holiday.

Key Takeaways for Your UAE Holiday Plans

• Expect a vibrant, busy city with traffic near popular shopping and entertainment areas.
• Plan indoor activities if the rain becomes heavy.
• Check local rules around parking, especially in central zones.
• Use official resources for ongoing traffic and weather alerts to avoid being caught off guard.

Use this quick update not only to plan your 5 September holiday in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, but as a model for preparing for future UAE public holidays—with clear, timely information leading the way.

Weather Alert: Rain, Traffic Updates, and School Notifications

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Friday, 5 September 2025, brings not just a public holiday but a slew of weather and travel advisories that impact daily life in the UAE. The latest rain bursts, live traffic snags, and rapid updates from schools combine to make timing and planning everything today. For families, business owners, and commuters, these official warnings call for a practical, cautious approach to the day. Let’s break down the key impacts, using simple tips and timely sources.

Orange Rain Alert in Dubai: What to Expect

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued an orange rain alert across Dubai and other emirates, with heavy rainfall and strong winds predicted from late morning through early evening. Rain swept through the region across Thursday and into Friday, shaped by moist air flows, low-pressure systems, and convective cloud formations. Residents woke to a mix of cooler air and the need for umbrellas, particularly in low-lying and eastern areas.

Key facts for today:

• Widespread showers: Expect intermittent rain, sometimes with thunder or wind gusts up to 45 km/hr.
• Daytime temperatures: Fell to the high 20s and low 30s °C, offering brief relief from the summer’s peak heat, though humidity remains high.
• Hazardous roads: Water may pool in dips and underpasses, causing slick patches.
• Real-time updates: Official weather advisories stress caution between 1 PM and 8 PM.

To track the active alerts and their effects across Dubai and the UAE, see government-verified coverage like UAE weather: Rain in Dubai as safety alert goes out to drivers and heavy rain warning in Dubai.

Driving and Traffic: Slow Lanes and Essential Safety

When the heavens open up, so do the traffic jams—today is no exception. Local authorities issued strong warnings against unnecessary travel during the worst of the rain. The impact is especially visible on commonly congested routes, such as the Dubai-Sharjah road and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Street. Many commuters have experienced significant delays, sometimes as long as two hours.

Action steps for drivers:

• Avoid travel unless essential—delays are expected across all arterial roads.
• Use low-beam headlights in poor visibility, never hazard lights unless stopped.
• Slow down and expect standing water, especially near construction areas and older road surfaces.
• Expect shifting bottlenecks near malls, event venues, and key Metro stations.

Police and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) continue to update commuters about hot spots. For alternative routes and tips on rainy-day driving strategy, check the Rain Day Commuter Tips guide from UAEThrive, and for current congestion, see the latest traffic advisories from Gulf News.

Table: Rain-Related Traffic and Safety Snapshot

Date	Condition	Area Affected	Advisory
5 Sept 2025	Heavy rain	Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Al Ain	Orange alert, avoid non-essential travel
5 Sept 2025	Traffic jams	Sheikh M. Bin Zayed St.	Delays up to 2 hrs, use alternate routes
4-5 Sept 2025	Strong winds	Eastern and southern Emirates	Watch for dust, reduce speed
1 Sept 2025	Dense fog	Abu Dhabi, Al Hamra, Al Dhafra	Early morning advisory, slowdowns

School Timings and Notifications: Stay in the Loop

Weather can turn the school run into a guessing game. Many Dubai and Abu Dhabi schools issued SMS and app-based notifications as rain alerts were upgraded, impacting drop-off and pick-up. Some moved to delayed starts; others chose to shift to online lessons for the morning. These changes aim to keep children and staff safe when storms peak.

What should families do now?

• Check your school’s official channels: WhatsApp, SMS, or school app messages often deliver the first alerts.
• Expect flexibility: Some schools may adjust midday or closing routines if rain intensifies.
• Listen for bus route changes: Safety checks are stricter today, so collection points or timings could shift by up to 30 minutes.
• Update emergency contacts: Make sure the school has your latest phone number in case of urgent updates.

For a complete parent and student safety checklist, browse UAEThrive’s Back-to-School resource.

Photo by Mohamed Zarandah

Keeping Informed and Ready

The safest way to enjoy the public holiday in the UAE is by staying informed and responding quickly to official alerts. Make time for indoor family activities if rain becomes a nuisance. Reserve parking early if you need to head out, and monitor ongoing traffic and school messages. For big-picture context, you’ll find further insights in the UAE weather updates and top events roundup, which covers trends and safety highlights from recent days.

This balance of planning, patience, and flexibility will make today’s mix of holiday and rain both safe and manageable across the Emirates.

Key Events and Travel: Cricket, Airport Security, and Student Transport

UAE news today isn’t just holiday hours and weather warnings. The city is packed with headline events, major travel flows, and important changes that touch your daily life—whether you’re making plans for the big cricket match, preparing for a trip through Dubai Airport, or sending the kids off on Abu Dhabi’s student buses. Here’s what you need to know right now to move with confidence, avoid stress, and get the most out of the long weekend.

India vs Pakistan: Where to Watch and Getting There

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Today’s India vs Pakistan cricket match is the centrepiece for sports fans across Dubai. Demand is high and both official ticketed entrances and public fan zones will be crowded. If you haven’t secured a ticket, the good news is there are several ways to be part of the action:

• Official fan zones: These are hosted at malls, hotels, and selected venues. Popular spots include City Centre Mirdif, Mall of the Emirates, and selected Vox Cinemas, offering large screens and lively crowd energy.
• Licensed venues and screening outlets: Many cinemas, hotels, and clubs will show the match on big screens. This guide to match screenings in Dubai lists the best locations, including venues with advance bookings and family-friendly options.
• Broadcast and streaming: TV and digital rights change match-by-match in the UAE. Double-check your provider early. Official streaming and TV broadcasters are often restricted to certain packages, so make sure yours is current before kick-off. More locations and details are covered in Khaleej Times’ where to watch the Champions Trophy game live.

If you’re heading out, plan your journey:

• Use the Dubai Metro to reach event venues fast and avoid car park gridlock. Metro stops close to the stadium and major fan zones are busiest, so leave home early and carry your Nol card topped up.
• On big game nights, RTA often extends Metro hours and runs frequent feeder buses near stadiums. Check live travel alerts and recent RTA Metro updates for event timings.
• Arrive early: Security checks, queues, and road traffic can spike, sometimes an hour before the first ball.
• For more practical tips, use UAEThrive’s Where to Watch Big Matches in Dubai and their Metro and RTA Event-Day Guide to avoid headaches.

The right plan can make the day go smoothly, whether you’re a diehard supporter or just in for the party atmosphere.

Dubai Airport: Security Updates and Traveller Tips

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With holiday travel peaking, Dubai Airport is making changes to improve the experience—especially around security screening. Here’s how to breeze through and avoid common delays:

• New screening rules for liquids and electronics: Keep all liquids (including creams and gels) in a clear, resealable bag. Laptops and tablets may still need to be removed for scanning, unless you are directed otherwise by staff.
• Smart Gates: If you’re a UAE citizen, resident, or hold a registered eGate card, you can use Smart Gates for speedy passport control. Just scan your document or face, follow the on-screen steps, and skip traditional border queues.
• Pack light and stay ready: Keep travel documents and boarding passes handy. Having your phone or printout prepared for checks saves time. Carry smaller bags whenever possible—less to scan means a quicker queue.
• For those looking for a more complete list, see Dubai Airport’s contactless journey update explaining Smart Gates, and get fast facts on passport control via Smart Gates at Dubai Airports.
• Major changes around liquids and laptops may soon reduce the need to remove these items in future. Details and rollout timelines can be found at Gulf News’ coverage of new airport security measures.

For more on staying organised, browse the Dubai Airport Security Checklist from UAEThrive and the step-by-step on who can use Smart Gates.

Making small adjustments to your routine saves you time and hassle, and can make your airport journey nearly as predictable as your morning coffee.

Abu Dhabi Student Transport: Enhanced Safety Rules

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Abu Dhabi’s new student transport safety rules are rolling out in phases, making the daily school run safer for families citywide. Here’s what parents and guardians need to pay attention to this term:

• Stricter safety standards: All school buses now follow enhanced inspections, with safety gear like seat belts, fire extinguishers, and clearly marked exits required on every route.
• Phased implementation: Rules are coming into force in stages, so check each update from your child’s school or the education regulator. Expect some buses to already carry new permits or compliance stickers, while others will update before the next major break.
• Parental and school roles: Schools will send out detailed compliance timelines and share clear guidance through SMS, WhatsApp, or parent portals. Parents need to update bus enrolment, check seat assignments, and remind children of behaviour expectations.
• Review the full list of safety regulations for school buses if you want in-depth rules and legal backing.
• New highlights and eight key rules for better protection are covered in Gulf News’ guide to the new student bus safety standards.
• For local Abu Dhabi requirements and easy-to-use advice, consult A Parent’s Guide for Returning to School from ADEK.
• UAEThrive also provides a practical Parent Guide to School Transport in Abu Dhabi and handy Back-to-School Checklist.

Review these updates, talk with your child about safe bus behaviour, and stay tuned to school communications. Safety on the road starts with the people who use it every day.

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Weekend in the UAE: Events, Dining, and Lifestyle Highlights

A public holiday in the UAE transforms the country into a playground of opportunity and connection. While city life naturally slows down for worship and family, the weekend still offers rich moments for those seeking events, great dining, and lifestyle perks. Whether you’re staying indoors because of the rainy weather, eyeing the latest restaurant, or carving out time for culture, this Friday brings choices that are both practical and rewarding.

Major Weekend Events

Dubai and Abu Dhabi step up for the long weekend with a mix of festivals, concerts, and family shows. Malls host interactive events and special guest appearances, while outdoor markets and cultural venues adapt with covered areas and flexible timings, especially given today’s orange rain alert.

Here’s a glance at top highlights families and business visitors will find helpful:

• Concerts and exhibits: From headline gigs at Coca-Cola Arena to curated art shows, both Emirates offer something for every taste. Find current concert and exhibition listings in the UAE News Roundup – Sep 3, 2025: Top Stories.
• ADIHEX 2025: As the Abu Dhabi International Hunting & Equestrian Exhibition enters its final days, visitors should check timings and ticketing before heading out. Expect heightened safety and easy online reservations.
• Technology and business events: WHX Tech 2025 opens soon, drawing innovation leaders and prospective partners. Registration advice and agenda tips appear in the UAE Daily News Roundup 31 Aug 2025: JBR, Property, RTA.

For a real-time pulse on what’s happening, Timeout Dubai’s monthly round-up offers a comprehensive take on gigs, family-friendly workshops, and city-wide events rolling out across September.

Dining: New Openings and Hidden Gems

Photo by Denys Gromov

Even with rain outside, Dubai’s and Abu Dhabi’s dining scene remains lively. This month introduces standout restaurants and showcases seasonal offers you’ll want to snag early. From breakfast with a view to late-night bites, choices cover every craving and budget.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Book ahead—indoor tables fill quickly on public holidays.
• Try special menus tied to the holiday. Many venues roll out exclusive deals and themed dishes.
• Don’t miss beloved comfort food spots. Rainy weekends suit hearty meals and good company.

For a curated look at new launches and trusted local favourites, see What’s Happening in Dubai This September 2025 for dining inspiration and Dubai Restaurant Week highlights.

Family and Indoor Activities

Unpredictable weather? Turn it to your advantage. The UAE’s best indoor attractions can rescue any rainy day. Options this weekend include:

• Immersive aquariums and hands-on museums
• High-tech edutainment parks for kids and adults
• Cinemas screening blockbuster films, plus smaller cultural screenings

If you want the ocean breeze without the rain, Explore The Walk JBR Dubai: Top Things To Do offers inspiration for a seaside stroll, shopping, and dining—all in one smart spot.

Holiday weekends are also ideal for trying something new. 10 fabulous activities to experience over the long weekend in the UAE covers activities ranging from adventure parks to spa escapes, letting every family tailor their day regardless of the forecast.

Lifestyle Trends and Practical Tips

September’s long weekend also drives new business, lifestyle, and leisure trends across the region. From wellness classes to pop-up fashion events and new property launches, residents and visitors can optimise their plans by:

• Checking for last-minute deals at indoor play zones and special event bundles at top attractions.
• Managing travel with transport updates, as outlined in the latest parking and RTA safety notes shared in the Dubai and UAE business, lifestyle and safety updates.
• Planning ahead for family events—indoor markets, cultural expos, and tech shows bring a diverse crowd, so set your schedule early.

UAE holiday weekends give a taste of what is possible year-round. Use these updates to weigh your options, plan smarter, and create a balance of fun, food, and practical downtime with those who matter most.

Your UAE News FAQs: Essential Answers for 5 September 2025

Today’s UAE News Roundup is built on the questions people ask the most—right now, on a public holiday, with rain on the roads, and big events across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Whether you’re planning family time, sorting business errands, or simply making the most of your break, the answers below offer clarity you can trust. Let’s address the most common queries with practical context for Friday, 5 September 2025.

A UAE family checking news updates on a rainy public holiday. Image created with AI.

Is 5 September 2025 a Public Holiday for the Private Sector?

Yes, Friday, 5 September 2025 is a paid public holiday for most private sector employees across the UAE, in honour of Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday. Government offices and service centres generally operate on reduced hours or close, but the private sector enjoys a clear day off unless the business has essential operations.

It’s helpful to check company policies, as some roles may require adjusted shifts. For background on the holiday announcement and what it means for your long weekend, see the detailed coverage of the September 5 public holiday.

Are Major Attractions, Shopping Malls, and Government Offices Open?

• Shopping malls and attractions: Remain open, with many running extended hours and special promotions tied to the holiday crowd.
• Government service centres: Closed or reduced hours, so check online or call ahead if you need a public service.
• Parking: Often free in many zones during public holidays, but always look for street signage or local updates.

For a look at weekend operational specifics—and how to find free parking or open attractions—refer to the past week’s UAE News Roundup – 3 September 2025 overview.

What’s Today’s Weather Alert, and Which Roads Are Slow?

Dubai faces an orange rain alert today, with heavy rain at times, especially during the late morning and afternoon. RTA urges drivers to allow extra time, expect pooling on roads, and monitor for congestion. Key routes around malls or major sports venues will be busier. Some schools are sending updates for altered start or pick-up times—families should stay alert for school communications.

You’ll find up-to-the-hour weather and transit safety updates in the UAE News Roundup 4 September 2025, plus tips to use Dubai Metro for a quicker trip.

How Can I Watch the India vs Pakistan Cricket Match?

If you haven’t already secured official match tickets, your best options include:

• Fan zones at top malls and family venues (expect early queues).
• Licensed venues: Cinemas, hotels, and restaurants with screening rights.
• Broadcast & streaming: Confirm your provider’s coverage before start time; not all platforms carry every match.

It’s wise to use public transport, chiefly the Metro, when attending fan zones or stadiums, as car parks fill up rapidly.

For a step-by-step on sports viewing options and smooth journeys, explore the Metro and RTA Event-Day Guide.

What Are the Rules at Dubai Airport Today for Liquids, Electronics, and Smart Gates?

Dubai Airports continues rolling out new passenger screening guidelines. Place any liquid items in a clear, resealable bag; be ready to remove laptops or tablets if instructed by security staff. Privileged travellers (UAE citizens, residents, and eligible visitors) can use Smart Gates for quicker border control—just a quick scan and you’re through.

• Travel tip: Pack light and keep passports or IDs easy to reach.
• Smart Gates: Use if you’re eligible and registered; they speed things up dramatically.

For today’s detailed checklist, check the Dubai Airport Security Checklist and guide to who can use Smart Gates at Dubai Airports.

Abu Dhabi Student Transport: When Do New Safety Rules Begin?

Abu Dhabi is putting stricter safety rules in place for student transport, rolling them out in phases during the school term. Parents will receive direct updates (via SMS, app, or school portal) on compliance deadlines and new bus rules. Expect to see more inspections, better safety features, and clearer bus markings.

Up-to-date parent resources, including preparation checklists, are available at Parent Guide to School Transport in Abu Dhabi.

Fast Answers for the UAE Holiday Crowd

For quick reference, here’s a handy table to keep you on track:

Question	Quick Answer
Is 5 September a holiday for the private sector?	Yes, paid day off for most workers
Are malls open today?	Yes, with extended hours
Are government offices open?	Closed or running limited hours
Is parking free on public holidays?	Many zones, but confirm signage
Is there a rain alert today?	Orange (heavy rain, caution advised)
Where to watch cricket in Dubai?	Use fan zones, licensed venues, Metro
Liquids/laptops rules at Dubai Airport?	Liquids in clear bags, follow staff
Smart Gates at DXB?	Yes, for eligible travellers
When do Abu Dhabi student bus rules start?	Phased; schools notify parents

For even more context on recent news, weather updates, and public holiday rules, browse the UAE Daily News Roundup 1 September 2025 highlights.

This FAQ section arms you with facts and quick solutions, making your 5 September 2025 in the UAE smoother—whether you’re out enjoying the city, tuning in to the match, or planning ahead for next week.

Conclusion

Public holidays like today bring both anticipation and extra demands across the UAE. This 5 September 2025 news roundup proves how quickly daily routines can shift with changing weather, new safety rules, and headline events. Staying well-informed makes the difference for business owners, families, and anyone looking to make the most of time off.

If you found this guide practical, consider subscribing for daily news alerts and insights tailored to life and business in the Emirates. You’ll find detailed step-by-step advice, from public holiday planning to previous UAE news roundups, helping you prepare for whatever the next busy weekend brings.

For more on local updates, planning tools, or business resources, continue exploring UAEThrive. Staying current lets you optimise plans and enjoy every break, even when the weather calls for changes. Thank you for trusting us as your UAE news companion—share your holiday experiences with us, and be ready for more guides, tips, and events just a click away.