Eid Al Fitr Holiday: UAE Residents Could Enjoy Up to 9 Days Off
With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, UAE residents eagerly anticipate the upcoming Eid Al Fitr holiday, which promises an extended break of up to nine days. This anticipated holiday, one of the longest of the year, falls in April and provides an opportunity for both private and public sector employees to enjoy a well-deserved respite without utilizing their annual leave entitlements.
In line with the Islamic calendar, the sighting of the crescent Moon in the UAE on March 10 marked the commencement of Ramadan, with March 11 officially beginning the fasting month. As per tradition, the duration of Ramadan varies depending on the sighting of the Moon, lasting either 29 or 30 days. Eid Al Fitr, the festival that follows Ramadan, is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal.
The UAE government has announced the official public and private sector holidays, granting residents a break from Ramadan 29 until Shawwal 3 to commemorate Eid Al Fitr. Should Ramadan extend to 30 days, Eid Al Fitr will be observed on April 10. Conversely, if Ramadan lasts 29 days, the festival will fall on April 9.
Let's delve into how the Eid Al Fitr holiday will unfold under both scenarios:
**If Ramadan lasts 30 days:**
The Eid break will commence from Monday, April 8 (Ramadan 29), extending until Friday, April 12 (Shawwal 3). Considering the weekends before and after the break, residents can enjoy a total of nine days off, spanning from Saturday, April 6, to Sunday, April 14.
**If Ramadan lasts 29 days:**
In this scenario, residents will still benefit from a significant break, albeit shorter. The Eid holiday will span from Monday, April 8 (Ramadan 29), to Thursday, April 11. Including the weekend before the break, individuals will enjoy a total of six days off, from Saturday, April 6, to Thursday, April 11.
The upcoming Eid Al Fitr break marks the second public holiday of the year, following the New Year holiday on January 1. Subsequent breaks include Eid Al Adha in June, offering residents a four-day respite excluding the weekend. Other notable holidays include Islamic New Year on Muharram 1 in July, Prophet Muhammad's birthday in September, and the UAE National Day on December 2 and 3.
In conclusion, the Eid Al Fitr holiday presents UAE residents with an opportunity to unwind, celebrate, and spend quality time with loved ones. Whether it spans nine days or six, this extended break serves as a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry and tradition that defines the UAE. As preparations for the festivities begin, anticipation builds for a joyous and memorable Eid celebration.
By: Sahiba Suri
Comments