As the extended Eid Al Fitr holiday wraps up in the UAE, many residents are already marking their calendars for the next break. This year’s Eid Al Fitr saw many enjoying a generous nine-day hiatus, thanks to the alignment with the weekend. However, those with work commitments on Saturdays are keen to find out when they can next enjoy some time off.
The good news is that there are several public holidays to look forward to in the coming months, promising some much-needed breaks.
Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha
One of the most significant upcoming holidays is the combination of Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha, offering a total of five days off. Arafah Day, observed on Dhul Hijjah 9, is one of the holiest days in Islam and precedes the Eid Al Adha celebrations, which span the following three days. This year, these dates translate to a long break from Sunday, June 16, to Wednesday, June 19. Residents can kick off their extended holiday a day early by also taking off Saturday, June 15.
Islamic New Year
The Islamic New Year, also known as Muharram 1, is expected to fall on Sunday, July 7. Although this will not offer a long holiday, it provides a day off for those whose weekends do not include Sunday, offering a brief pause to recharge.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday
The celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday is another significant date on the Islamic calendar, believed to be observed on Rabi Al Awwal 12. The corresponding Gregorian date is yet to be determined, keeping many in anticipation.
National Day
Looking towards the end of the year, UAE’s National Day on December 2 and 3, falling on Monday and Tuesday, respectively, presents another opportunity for a long weekend when combined with the usual Saturday-Sunday break. This four-day holiday will provide residents a chance to celebrate the nation’s heritage and achievements.