Dubai, UAE: In an announcement that has sparked excitement among residents and workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Cabinet has released a list of at least 13 public holidays scheduled for the upcoming year, promising numerous extended weekends and the prospect of an unprecedented six-day break.
These holidays, coupled with the standard 30 annual leaves, provide ample opportunities for both relaxation and exploration. The holidays, primarily based on the Islamic calendar, have been translated into Gregorian dates to assist residents in planning their year.
The Islamic calendar, where months last either 29 or 30 days depending on the sighting of the crescent moon, adds an element of anticipation as the actual dates will be confirmed by relevant authorities closer to each occasion.
The kickoff to the new year in 2024 will be accompanied by a delightful three-day weekend. With January 1 falling on a Monday, residents can revel in the festivities of New Year’s Eve and enjoy an entire day of rest, setting a positive tone for the months ahead.
One of the most anticipated breaks on the calendar is the Eid Al Fitr celebration, marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. The government has designated Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3 as a public holiday, providing a four to five-day respite, depending on the lunar month.
With Ramadan expected to be 29 days according to the Hijri calendar, the corresponding Gregorian dates are projected to be from Tuesday, April 9, to Friday, April 12. This extended break, combined with the weekend, grants UAE residents a luxurious six-day hiatus to recharge or embark on an unforgettable journey.
Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha observed on Dhul Hijjah 9 and the following three days, respectively, offer another extended break. Falling on Sunday, June 16, to Wednesday, June 19, with the inclusion of the preceding Saturday as a weekend, this celebration provides a five-day window for reflection and festivities.
Arafah Day considered the holiest in Islam, adds a spiritual dimension to the holiday season, making it a significant religious observation and leisure period.
The Islamic New Year, Muharram 1, falls on Sunday, July 7, marking the second new year of 2024. While this day offers a brief respite, it is a welcome break for those without a Sunday weekend, providing a moment for reflection and renewal.
The precise date for Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, occurring on Rabi Al Awwal 12, is yet to be confirmed on the Gregorian calendar. Nonetheless, it stands as a day of reverence and celebration for residents, adding a cultural and religious touch to the holiday lineup.
Finally, wrapping up the year is the National Day, extending from December 2 to December 3, falling on Monday and Tuesday, respectively. This four-day holiday and the standard weekend offer residents an extended period to commemorate the nation’s achievements and reflect on the year gone by.
The unveiled holiday calendar provides residents with well-deserved breaks. It presents an opportunity for most expatriates to strategically plan their vacations by heading back to their home countries or exploring new destinations.
Travel surveys over recent months highlight the trend of utilizing annual leaves for international travel, making the most of public holidays and extended weekends.
As the UAE gears up for a year filled with diverse celebrations and moments of respite, residents are poised to make the most of these opportunities, whether by engaging in local festivities, embarking on global adventures, or simply taking a well-deserved break from the routine hustle and bustle.
The holiday calendar for 2024 not only serves as a guide for planning and a testament to the UAE’s commitment to providing a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle for its residents.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members