It has been decided that federal government employees will observe Arafa and Eid al-Adha on Saturday, June 15, from 9 Dhu al-Hijjah until Tuesday, June 18, 2024, or 12 Dhu al-Hijjah of 1445 AH. Work will resume on "Wednesday" June 19, 2024.
This was mentioned in a circular sent to all federal agencies and ministries by the federal authority for government human resources.
Public holidays in the Emirates
The circular was released in accordance with the Council of Ministers' resolution regarding the official holiday schedule that the nation's public and private sectors had agreed upon.
On this occasion, the Authority congratulated the leadership, government and people of the United Arab Emirates, the residents of its land, and the Arab and Islamic nations, asking God Almighty to return it to them with abundant health and well-being.
Eid al-Fitr holiday for workers in the private sector
In honor of Arafah Day and Eid al-Adha, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization declared on its official "X" platform account that all private sector employees in the nation will receive paid time off from Saturday, June 15, to Tuesday, June 18, during the period from 9 Dhu al-Hijjah to the Twelfth of Dhu al-Hijjah 1445 AH.
Why do some UAE official holidays vary annually?
This is so because, in contrast to the more popular Gregorian calendar, which is based on the sun, Islamic holidays are determined by the cycles of the moon.
What is the day of Arafat?
Arafat Day is an opportunity for Muslims worldwide who are not in Mecca for the Hajj to come together, contemplate, and offer prayers. While it is not required, fasting is encouraged. Arafat Day honors a significant occasion in the Islamic pilgrimage of Hajj.