As the holy month of Dhul Qadah draws to a close, UAE residents are eagerly awaiting the sighting of the crescent moon, which will mark the beginning of Eid al-Adha 2024, the “Festival of Sacrifice.” This year, depending on the moon sighting, residents can expect a long weekend with either 4 or 5 days off work.
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Moon’s the Word: Eid al-Adha 2024
Traditionally, the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle. The start of Islamic holidays, including Eid al-Adha, is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon. This year, the moon sighting will take place on Thursday, June 6th. If the crescent moon is visible, Eid al-Adha will begin on Friday, June 7th.
So, How Long is the Break?
The UAE government typically announces the official public holidays for Eid al-Adha following the moon sighting. Here’s what you can expect:
- 4-Day Weekend: If the moon isn’t sighted on June 6th, Dhul Qadah will last for 30 days, making Eid al-Adha fall on Saturday, June 15th. This would translate to a four-day weekend, including Friday, June 14th (the public holiday for Arafat Day) and Saturday and Sunday (the regular weekend).
- 5-Day Weekend: If the moon is sighted on June 6th, Eid al-Adha would begin on Friday, June 7th. This scenario would result in a five-day weekend, with Friday (Eid al-Adha), Saturday (Arafat Day), and Sunday through Tuesday as public holidays.
A Time for Family and Celebration:
Eid al-Adha is a joyous occasion that celebrates Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Muslims traditionally attend Eid prayers, sacrifice animals (like sheep or goats), and share the meat with the less fortunate. It’s a time for families to gather, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals.
Planning Your Long Weekend:
With the long weekend approaching, residents are encouraged to plan their breaks accordingly. Schools will likely be closed for the duration of the holiday, so families with children can enjoy some quality time together. For those planning to travel, it’s advisable to book flights and accommodation in advance, as this is a popular time for holidays.
Stay Tuned!
The official announcement regarding the moon sighting and public holiday dates will be made by the UAE authorities on or around June 6th. Stay tuned to local news channels or government websites for the latest updates and enjoy the upcoming Eid al-Adha celebrations!
All About Eid al-Adha celebration:
Dates and Public Holidays:
- When is Eid al-Adha expected in 2024? The exact dates depend on the moon sighting, but it’s likely to fall between Friday, June 7th and Saturday, June 15th.
- How long is the public holiday for Eid al-Adha? It depends on the moon sighting. Expect either a 4-day or 5-day weekend.
- How can I find out the confirmed dates for Eid al-Adha? Official UAE authorities will announce the holiday dates after the moon sighting, typically around June 6th. Check local news channels or government websites for updates.
Activities and Customs:
- What are some things people do during Eid al-Adha? Muslims attend Eid prayers, sacrifice animals, and share meat with the less fortunate. Families gather, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals.
- Are there any special events happening for Eid al-Adha? Many places have amusement parks, fireworks displays, and cultural celebrations.
- What kind of food is eaten during Eid al-Adha? Special dishes like roast lamb, biryani, and desserts like baklava are popular.
Travel and Etiquette:
- Is it a good time to visit the UAE during Eid al-Adha? Yes, it offers a unique cultural experience. However, expect higher prices for flights and hotels.
- What should I wear for Eid al-Adha celebrations? Dress modestly. Muslims wear their best clothes for prayers.
- Is alcohol served during Eid al-Adha? Alcohol consumption might be restricted in public places. Check with your hotel or restaurant.
- Can I greet people with “Eid Mubarak” during Eid al-Adha? Yes! It means “Blessed Eid.”
- What should I avoid doing during Eid al-Adha? Avoid revealing clothing and loud behavior in public spaces, as it’s a religious observance.
Logistics:
- Will public transportation be affected? Schedules might change. Check timetables in advance.
- Will tourist attractions be closed? Some might have adjusted hours or closures. Check opening times before visiting.
- Do I need to tip extra during Eid al-Adha? Tipping is not mandatory, but consider slightly more during holidays.
Additional Information:
- Where can I find more information about Eid al-Adha in the UAE? Check UAE government websites or local news channels.
- Is there a sacrifice happening at my hotel? Unlikely. Animal sacrifices typically occur at designated slaughterhouses.
- Can I witness an Eid prayer? Mosques might be crowded. It’s best to check with the mosque beforehand.
- What if I don’t celebrate Eid al-Adha? Most businesses will be closed during the holiday, but some restaurants and cafes might remain open.
- Will there be Eid sales or promotions? Yes, many shops and malls offer special deals during Eid al-Adha.
- How can I experience the cultural aspects of Eid al-Adha? Visit public celebrations or observe decorations and festive displays around the city. Remember to be respectful of local customs.