In the Arab world, the sighting of the crescent moon on the 29th of the Hijri calendar month Dhul Qa’adah, which falls on June 6 this year, is crucial for determining the dates of Islamic festivals.
Moon Sighting and Eid Al-Adha Holiday in the UAE
This includes Eid al-Adha, a significant holiday that will provide UAE residents with a long weekend in mid-June, contingent upon the moon sighting.
The moon-sighting process will take place on Thursday, June 6. Residents will receive four or five days off, including the weekend, based on when the moon is observed. This holiday commemorates two important days in Islam: Arafah Day (one day off) and Eid Al-Adha (three days off).
Islamic festivals rely on the Hijri calendar months, which are defined by the sighting of the crescent moon. On June 6, countries in the Arab world, including the UAE, will search for the moon to determine the beginning of the next month, Dhul Hijjah. If the moon is seen on June 6, Dhul Hijjah starts the following day (June 7). If not, the new month begins on June 8. Here’s how the Eid break will unfold based on these scenarios:
Scenario 1: Moon Spotted on June 6
- Dhul Hijjah begins on June 7.
- Arafah Day: June 15 (Dhul Hijjah 9)
- Eid Al Adha: June 16 (Dhul Hijjah 10)
- Holiday break: Saturday, June 15, to Tuesday, June 18.
In this case, the holiday includes two weekend days (Saturday and Sunday) and provides two additional weekdays off.
Scenario 2: Moon Not Spotted on June 6
- Dhul Hijjah begins on June 8.
- Arafah Day: June 16 (Dhul Hijjah 9)
- Eid Al Adha: June 17 (Dhul Hijjah 10)
- Holiday break: Sunday, June 16, to Wednesday, June 19.
This scenario extends the holiday to five days, including the weekend (Saturday, June 15), giving residents an extended break.
Astronomical predictions suggest that the moon will likely not be seen on June 6. Consequently, it is anticipated that UAE residents will enjoy a five-day holiday.
Schools will briefly reopen for a little over a week before closing again for the two-month summer break. Many residents plan to combine the Eid break with the upcoming school holidays to extend their vacations.
The moon sighting on June 6 will determine the exact dates of the Eid Al-Adha holiday in the UAE. Whether the break lasts four or five days, it promises a welcome respite for residents. This period not only allows for celebration and reflection but also offers an opportunity for extended vacations, particularly as it coincides with the beginning of the summer break for schools. By planning around these dates, residents can maximize their time off and enjoy the festive season.