These are the next UAE holidays that you should mark on your calendar. Plan your next trip with either friends or family. Set yourself up for a little me-time to indulge in your favorite movie or leisure activity. These upcoming UAE holidays are the perfect time to give yourself a much-needed break, so make sure to plan ahead to make the most out of these dates.
Arafat Day
This year, Arafat Day falls on June 27, which is a Tuesday. This Islamic holiday falls on the ninth day of Dhu al-Hijjah of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is also the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage. During this sacred holiday, millions of Muslims go on a pilgrimage to Mecca to pray.
Many businesses will be closed and you can expect travel to be hectic on this day, so you should prepare for this holiday accordingly.
Eid Al Adha
One of the most significant holidays in the Islamic calendar is the Eid Al Adha, or the Holiday of Sacrifice, which this year is expected to take place from June 28 to 30, according to the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources.
During this UAE holiday, it is tradition for financially able families to sacrifice a ritually acceptable animal and divide the cooked meat equally among themselves, their friends, and the poor. Eid Al Adha is also a time for visiting friends and exchanging gifts.
Read: Tracking GCC’s public holidays in 2023: Mark your calendars
Islamic New Year
Islamic New Year is set to fall on July 19 this year. Also called Hijri New Year or Muharram, Muslims around the world recite Quran verses and hold special prayers as well as sermons at mosques during this special occasion.
For Muslims, Islamic New Year is the perfect time to reflect on how they can improve their lives and their relationship with Allah. Muslims also set religious goals they strive towards and use the occasion to plan what they can do moving forward.
Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad
The UAE also celebrates the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad on September 27 this year. Commemorating the Islamic prophet’s life is perceived as a way to keep his memory alive.
On this public holiday, Muslims spend the day spiritually honoring Allah by fasting and reading the Quran. This particular holiday is recognized more as an observance rather than a celebration, with festivities kept to a minimum.
Commemoration Day
Previously known as Martyrs’ Day, Commemoration Day is celebrated every 30th of November. This UAE holiday is an annual event to remember those who lost their lives serving the UAE. Commemoration Day recognizes the sacrifices and dedication of the UAE military and civilian service people.
On Commemoration Day, UAE residents come together to honor the legacy of the martyrs by observing a minute of silence.
UAE National Day
One of the most anticipated holidays in the UAE is National Day, which falls on December 2. This particular UAE holiday celebrates the anniversary of when the rulers of Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Al-Ain, Sharjah and Umm al-Quwain agreed to unite as a single nation.
During National Day, you can expect dazzling fireworks display, elaborate parades and glittering ceremonies throughout the country, as well as many exciting events, along with major shopping discounts, across the seven emirates.
Observing UAE holidays
The majority of the upcoming holidays in the UAE are religious holidays. Airports will be packed and many businesses will be closed. Planning ahead of time will also help you save on costs, especially if you book your flights or hotel stays months in advance. But don’t stress yourself out because these holidays are meant to give you the time you need to rest and reset. Enjoy.
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