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Key Public Holiday Dates in the UAE You Should Always Remember
Living in Dubai, you need to stay updated with all the news related to the gulf nation. People who come to work here from abroad usually keeps a close eye on the holidays schedule of the country. As we know that UAE is a Muslim nation, the majority of the holidays announced in the Emirate are connected to the Islamic dates. Besides that, few public holidays in UAE also relates to the conventional practices followed in other countries. If you are living in Dubai or any other city, these dates will surely become your core point of interest.
The good thing about these public holidays is that they are announced at the start of every year. The government of UAE always plan these holidays in advance to facilitate its citizens in planning different things. Usually, most of the people plan to leave for vacations during these public holidays in UAE. Some of them go exotic vacation sites, while some visit their home nations to enjoy some valuable time for friends and family.
If you are also living in Dubai working in any software development company or public organization, you should know about these holidays precisely. In this blog, we will give you a quick overview of the overall UAE holidays schedule, so that you can plan your trips or any other leisure task in advance.
UAE Public Holidays List
The official 2024 public holidays list in the United Arab Emirates serves as a comprehensive reference for individuals, offering insight into significant occasions within the Islamic calendar and marking dates allocated for the celebration of key events in the Gregorian calendar. This inclusive list ensures that residents are well-informed about the days designated for festivities, allowing for better planning and coordination of events throughout the year. Importantly, the holidays encompass both religious and secular celebrations, reflecting the diverse cultural landscape of the UAE.
A noteworthy distinction exists between the public and private sectors regarding the allocation of days off. Employees working in the public sector are entitled to a greater number of holidays compared to their counterparts in private companies. This variance in holiday entitlement is a crucial factor for individuals when considering employment options in different software development companies in the UAE. Public holidays, often colloquially referred to as bank holidays, come with the added benefit of being paid leaves.
Furthermore, the recognition of these public holidays plays a pivotal role in fostering a sense of unity and cultural awareness among the diverse population of the UAE. By acknowledging and celebrating both Islamic and Gregorian occasions, the public holidays contribute to the overall social fabric, promoting inclusivity and understanding among residents of different backgrounds. Overall, the 2024 public holidays list not only serves as a practical guide for scheduling personal and professional activities but also underscores the importance of cultural diversity in the fabric of the nation.
New Year’s Day
Like in many other western countries, the first day of the year i.e. January 1, is termed as a public holiday in the UAE. This day marks the start of a new year, hence government has designated it a holiday to level up the excitement of citizens. Every organization in the public and private sector including web development companies in the UAE remains closed on January 1, while some emergency state-run services remain open.
Eid-al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr, one of the most significant religious celebrations in the United Arab Emirates, marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims. This joyous occasion is a time for devout reflection, prayer, and gratitude. The UAE, being an Islamic country, observes Eid al-Fitr with great enthusiasm and reverence.
During the Eid al-Fitr holidays in the UAE, the atmosphere is infused with a sense of joy and community spirit. Families come together to share special meals, exchange gifts, and engage in acts of charity. The streets are adorned with colorful decorations, and public spaces host various events and activities to commemorate the occasion.
Arafat Day
Arafat Day is a significant observance in the Islamic calendar and is part of the Hajj pilgrimage rituals. In the UAE, Arafat Day is recognized as a public holiday, allowing Muslims to commemorate this sacred day. Falling on the 9th day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, Arafat Day is a time for pilgrims gathered at the plain of Arafat near Mecca to engage in intense prayer, reflection, and repentance.
In the UAE, Arafat Day is observed with a solemn and contemplative atmosphere. Many individuals take the day off to attend special prayers at mosques. The recognition of Arafat Day as a public holiday in the UAE underscores the nation’s commitment to respecting and honoring Islamic traditions.
Eid-al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is a significant religious observance in the UAE, marking the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage and commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. This momentous occasion is celebrated with great reverence and festivity throughout the UAE.
During the Eid al-Adha holiday in the UAE, families come together to perform special prayers, expressing gratitude for the blessings in their lives. The symbolic act of Qurbani, or animal sacrifice, is a central aspect of the celebration, with families distributing the meat among relatives, neighbors, and the less fortunate.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday
The celebration of Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) birthday, also known as Milad-un-Nabi, is a special and joyous occasion in the United Arab Emirates. Observed on the 12th day of Rabi’ al-Awwal in the Islamic calendar, this day commemorates the birth of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), the final messenger of Islam.
On Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) birthday in the UAE, special prayers and sermons are conducted in mosques, and religious scholars often deliver lectures highlighting the Prophet’s exemplary character and teachings. The celebrations extend beyond religious observances, with cultural events, parades, and community activities organized to promote unity and understanding among residents.
UAE National Day
UAE National Day is a momentous occasion celebrated with immense pride and fervor in the United Arab Emirates. Commemorated on December 2nd each year, this holiday marks the anniversary of the union of the seven emirates in 1971, culminating in the formation of the United Arab Emirates.
On UAE National Day, the streets come alive with vibrant decorations, patriotic displays, and a sea of the national flag’s colors. Celebrations include parades, traditional performances, firework displays, and cultural events that reflect the diverse traditions of the emirates.
Frequently Asked Questions
| What is the Eid-al-Fitar holiday all about? Eid al-Fitr in the UAE is a joyous Islamic celebration marking the end of Ramadan, observed with prayers, feasting, and charitable acts. It brings together families and communities to celebrate the spirit of generosity and gratitude. |
| What is Milad-un-Nabi holiday in the UAE? Milad-un-Nabi in the UAE is a significant Islamic holiday commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), observed with prayers, reflections, and cultural activities. It promotes unity and reverence for the Prophet’s teachings. |
| When is the UAE National Day celebrated? The UAE National Day is celebrated on December 2nd each year. It is the day that marks the anniversary of union of seven emirates, officially forming UAE as a gulf country. |
Final Words
That brings us to the end of this blog in which we have listed key public holidays celebrated every year in the UAE. Living in Dubai, you should know about these days because they are designated officially by the government. During these public holidays in UAE, you can effectively plan your vacations with your friends and family. Though the dates of these holidays vary every year, but that is also managed efficiently by the government. They usually announce all the holiday dates at the start of every year, so that citizens can plan their respective activities accordingly.
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