Two-Day National Holiday Announced for Second Week of September
Iran has announced a two-day national public holiday for the second week of the Persian month of Shahrivar (late August/early September 2025), continuing a period of official observances.
Official Holidays Confirmed
The national calendar confirms two official holidays for the week. The first, on Monday, 10 Shahrivar 1404, marks the martyrdom of Imam Hasan al-Askari (AS) and the beginning of the Imamate of Imam al-Mahdi (AJ). The second holiday falls on Friday, 14 Shahrivar. This guarantees a shortened working week for public institutions and many businesses.
Clarification on Rumored Closures
Recent rumors circulating on social media regarding an additional closure on Saturday, 8 Shahrivar, have been confirmed to be false. No official approval has been granted for administrative closures on that date in any of the country’s provinces. This clarification comes after a series of holidays, including the recent observance for the martyrdom of Imam Reza (AS) and a government-approved closure the previous Saturday.
A Month of Significance
These holidays occur within the important lunar month of Rabi’ al-Awwal, which began on 3 Shahrivar and will conclude on 1 Mehr 1404. Following the two months of mourning, Muharram and Safar, Rabi’ al-Awwal holds a special place for Muslims as a month of joy and celebration.
Key Observances in Rabi’ al-Awwal
The month features several significant religious and cultural events that emphasize unity within the Islamic community:
- Unity Week: This period, spanning the 12th to the 17th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, commemorates the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It is designated to promote harmony between Islamic schools of thought, acknowledging the differing dates celebrated by Sunnis and Shi’a.
- International Islamic Unity Conference: Held in Tehran, this conference aims to foster the thought of proximity among Islamic denominations.
- Celebrations of the Prophet’s Birth: Jubilant celebrations are held across Islamic nations on the anniversary of the Prophet’s birth.
- Beginning of the Imamate: The 9th of Rabi’ al-Awwal marks the beginning of the Imamate of Imam al-Mahdi (AJ).