The official Eid Al Adha UAE 2024 dates have been announced by the UAE government for the public and private sectors.
Arafat Day will be observed on Saturday June 15, thus, the first day of Eid Al Adha 2024 will fall on Sunday June 16.
This means that both federal and private sector employees will enjoy a a four-day public holiday (if you count the weekend) starting from Saturday June 15 until Tuesday June 18.
We will be returning to work on Wednesday June 19.
What to know about upcoming Eid Al Adha UAE holidays
But first…what exactly is Arafat Day?
Arafat Day, also known as the Day of Arafah, holds great significance for Muslims around the world. It falls on the ninth day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah roughly 70 days after the end of Ramadan and just one day before the festival of Eid Al Adha.
Arafat Day commemorates a key event in the Islamic pilgrimage of Hajj and marks a day of spiritual reflection, unity, and supplication.
Typically, Muslims all around the world, who are not in Mecca doing the pilgrimage, will fast on Arafat Day. It is not mandatory, but it is preferred.
To really understand the significance of Arafat Day, click here to read more.
What is Eid Al Adha?
Eid Al Adha is one of two major festivals for Muslims (the first one being Eid Al Fitr). The Muslim festival of Eid Al Adha marks the conclusion of the pilgrimage to Mecca.
The holiday gives Muslims the chance to come together with their community and celebrate with feasts and family time.
Early in the morning of Eid Al Adha, Muslims start the day off with a morning prayer either at home or at the nearest mosque.
It is also a custom among the community to exchange gifts and donate to charitable causes during the festivities. Most Muslims tend to spend most of their first day at home or with their relatives.
You might like: Your complete guide to Eid Al Adha including where to go and what to do
During the Eid Al Adha holiday, Dubai will celebrate in multiple ways, including exciting activities, firework shows, live music and so much more across the city.
Eid Mubarak from our Time Out family to yours.
Why do some public holidays in the UAE change every year?
That’s because Islamic holidays are based on the cycles of the moon, unlike the more widely used Gregorian calendar, which is based on the sun.
To understand how Islamic calendars work, click here to read the full story.
Looking for things to do in Dubai?
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From hot yoga to chaotic karting, we’ve got your break all planned out
Plus: Never miss a single thing about where to go and what to do in Dubai
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