The Eid Al Adha holidays have been announced for the public and private sector and we couldn’t be happier! But once those are done with, then begins the loooong wait until the next holiday which is definitely not fun. But the wait might be just worth it when you get to see your friends and loved ones, explore an exciting new destination or treat yourself to a good staycation deal. Get your calendars at the ready because here is a list of all the public holidays you can expect in the following months of 2018.
August 20 – Arafat Day
This holiday marks the second day of the annual pilgrimage to Haj. The holiday takes place the day before the start of Eid Al Adha. The holiday falls on a Monday this year.
August 21 – Eid Al Adha
Eid Al Adha is the festival or celebration of sacrifice and honours Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail. It’s a two day holiday that begins on Tuesday and also includes a holiday on August 22 Wednesday. It’s back to work on Thursday!
September 11 (dependent on moon sighting) – Al Hijri, Islamic New Year
Al Hijri is the Islamic New Year and marks the beginning of a new Islamic calendar year. The holiday is expected to fall on a Tuesday.
November 20 (dependent on moon sighting) – Milad Un Nabi / Birthday of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)
This holiday marks the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday and usually means a day off. It is however at the Government’s discretion.
November 30 – Commemoration Day
Also known as Martyrs Day, this holiday is observed in the UAE to honour the brave Emiratis who died while defending the UAE. The day was declared by HH Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the Emir of Abu Dhabi and the Supreme Commander of the Union Defence Force, in 2015. As this holiday falls on a Friday, it is unclear if we get any days off.
December 2 – UAE National Day
This year will mark UAE’s 47th National Day, in celebration of the unification of the seven emirates in 1971. The grand holiday falls on a Sunday so expect a long weekend!
Get planning ASAP!