In a move to honor Islamic traditions and encourage increased religious observance, the Maldivian government has announced the closure of all government offices for the last ten days of Ramadan, commencing Thursday, March 20, 2025.
This initiative stems from a directive issued by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on February 4, 2024, which established the final ten days of each Ramadan, starting from the Islamic year 1445, as official government holidays. The policy aims to uphold Islamic principles, foster appreciation for Islamic values, and provide citizens with the opportunity to prioritize acts of worship during this sacred period.
In addition to the Ramadan observance, the President’s Office has outlined the schedule for Eid al-Fitr holidays. If the Ministry of Islamic Affairs declares Monday, March 31, 2025, as the first day of Shawwal 1446 (Eid al-Fitr), government offices will remain closed on March 31, April 1, and April 2, with an additional holiday on Thursday, April 3. Conversely, if the crescent moon is sighted on the evening of Saturday, March 29, leading to Sunday, March 30, being declared as Eid, the government will observe holidays on March 30, 31, and April 1, with extended closures on Wednesday, April 2, and Thursday, April 3. These measures are designed to allow employees to spend extended time with their families during the Eid festivities.
Essential public services will continue to operate during this period, with respective government authorities tasked with ensuring their uninterrupted delivery and communicating specific operating hours to the public.
Government offices are scheduled to reopen on Sunday, April 6, 2025, following the conclusion of the Eid al-Fitr holidays.
This comprehensive approach underscores the administration’s commitment to facilitating religious observance and family unity during one of the most significant periods in the Islamic calendar.