2025 Holidays - Rwanda
| Name | Weekday | Date | Type | Subdivisions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | Wednesday | Jan. 1, 2025 | National | All |
| New Year's Day Holiday | Thursday | Jan. 2, 2025 | National | All |
| Heroes' Day (In Lieu) | Monday | Feb. 3, 2025 | National | All |
| Eid Ul Fitr * | Monday | March 31, 2025 | National | All |
| Genocide against the Tutsi Memorial Day | Monday | April 7, 2025 | National | All |
| Good Friday | Friday | April 18, 2025 | National | All |
| Easter Monday | Monday | April 21, 2025 | National | All |
| Worker's Day | Thursday | May 1, 2025 | National | All |
| Eid El Haj * | Saturday | June 7, 2025 | National | All |
| Independence Day | Tuesday | July 1, 2025 | National | All |
| Liberation Day | Friday | July 4, 2025 | National | All |
| Umuganura Day | Friday | Aug. 1, 2025 | National | All |
| Assumption Day | Friday | Aug. 15, 2025 | National | All |
| Christmas Day | Thursday | Dec. 25, 2025 | National | All |
| Boxing Day | Friday | Dec. 26, 2025 | National | All |
* Estimated holiday dates
We continuously monitor and update holiday information, but there may be occasional inaccuracies.
Rwanda workweek and weekend
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Workday | Workday | Workday | Workday | Workday | Weekend | Weekend |
Public Holiday Observance Rules in Rwanda
1. Official Public Holidays
Rwanda observes several official public holidays throughout the year, as determined by a Presidential Order. These holidays are recognized nationwide and are applicable to all sectors. Source
2. Work on Public Holidays
General Rule: Employees are entitled to paid leave on public holidays.
Exceptions: Certain essential services may require employees to work on public holidays. In such cases, employers are typically expected to provide appropriate compensation or alternative time off, though specific provisions may vary and should be outlined in employment contracts or company policies.
3. Holidays Falling on Weekends
When a public holiday falls on a weekend, the government may declare an additional day off, often on the following Monday, to ensure that employees benefit from the holiday. Such decisions are typically announced by official government communications.
4. Observance by Sectors
Public Sector: Government offices and institutions close on all official public holidays.
Private Sector: Private businesses are also expected to observe public holidays. If operations continue on these days, employers should adhere to labor laws regarding holiday compensation.
5. Additional Observance Rules
Umuganda (Community Service Day): On the last Saturday of each month, Rwanda observes "Umuganda," a mandatory community service day from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM. During this time, businesses close, and public transportation is halted. Participation is required by law, and non-compliance can result in fines. Source