The United Arab Emirates has a diverse calendar of public holidays spread throughout the year, with each holiday holding special significance to the country’s rich history and culture. In 2024, residents and visitors can look forward to celebrating a variety of occasions, from religious events to national commemorations.
One of the major holidays observed in the UAE is Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. This joyful occasion typically lasts for three days and is celebrated with festive gatherings, feasting, and charitable acts. Another significant religious event is Eid al-Adha, observed during the Islamic month of Dhu Al-Hijjah. This holiday commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son and honors the solidarity of the Muslim community.
In addition to these religious holidays, UAE National Day falls on December 2nd and 3rd, celebrating the country’s unification in 1971. This patriotic event features fireworks, parades, and various cultural activities showcasing the pride and unity of the Emirati people. With a blend of religious and national observances, the upcoming UAE holidays in 2024 provide a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of this dynamic nation.
Public Holidays in UAE 2024
The United Arab Emirates has a variety of public holidays throughout the year, most of which are rooted in cultural or religious traditions. In 2024, UAE residents can expect to enjoy at least 13 public holidays, including four long weekends. It’s essential for both visitors and residents to be aware of these holidays to plan accordingly.
New Year’s Day is celebrated on January 1st as the first public holiday of the year, marking the beginning of the Gregorian calendar. This day is usually observed with fireworks, festive events, and gatherings with friends and family.
During the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, observant Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, followed by the much-awaited holiday of Eid Al Fitr. This holiday usually spans from Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3, depending on the sighting of the moon, and is a time for feasting, family gatherings, and charitable acts.
Another significant Islamic holiday is Eid Al Adha, which marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. Celebrated around Dhu Al Hijjah 9, this holiday commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command. It is an occasion for feasting, prayers, and gift-giving.
Commemoration Day, previously known as Martyr’s Day, is a day to honor and remember the sacrifices of UAE’s fallen heroes. This solemn occasion is observed with various ceremonies and acts of remembrance across the country.
In addition to the above-mentioned holidays, other important public holidays in the UAE include:
- Islamic New Year or Hijri New Year, marking the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar
- Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, a day honoring the birth of the Islamic prophet
- National Day, celebrating the formation of the United Arab Emirates
Exact dates for Islamic holidays may vary due to moon sighting, so it is advisable to check for updates closer to the events. The official list of public holidays applies to both government and private sector employees, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to observe and enjoy these special occasions.
Religious Holidays Observance
In 2024, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will observe a number of religious holidays. These holidays hold great significance to the country’s majority Muslim population and are observed as public holidays across both public and private sectors.
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. This celebration lasts for three days, starting from Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 31. The exact dates for Eid Al Fitr in 2024 cannot be confirmed until the sighting of the moon, as the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles.
Another significant religious holiday is Arafat Day, which occurs on the 9th day of Dhu Al-Hijjah2. This day is important in the Islamic faith, as it falls during the Hajj pilgrimage and is a time for Muslims to seek forgiveness and reflect on their devotion to God.
Eid Al Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, follows Arafat Day and spans from Dhu Al-Hijjah 10 to 123. This religious holiday commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son and is observed with special prayers, charitable acts, and the sharing of food with friends, family, and the less fortunate.
The Islamic New Year, or Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the lunar Islamic calendar year. It is observed on the 1st day of Muharram3. In 2024, specific dates may vary due to moon sightings.
Lastly, the Prophet Mohammed’s birthday4 is another notable religious event. It is observed on Rabi Al Awwal 12 in the Islamic calendar, which in 2024 will likely fall on September 29. This day is marked with increased religious activities, including special prayers and gatherings.
It is essential to remember that these dates may be subject to change due to the lunar calendar, so it is always advisable to keep an eye on official announcements and updates to stay informed.
Footnotes
National Events and Festivities
In 2024, UAE residents can look forward to an exciting lineup of national events and festivities as they enjoy a total of 13 public holidays. Some highlights include extended weekends and celebrations that showcase the UAE’s rich cultural heritage.
To begin the year, UAE will celebrate New Year’s Day on January 1st. This occasion serves as a time for people to welcome the new year with friends, family, and fireworks displays across the country 1.
The holy month of Ramadan is observed by Muslims in the UAE and around the world. In 2024, the Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3 dates are set for Eid Al Fitr, a holiday marking the end of Ramadan. This important event involves charitable giving, family gatherings, and feasting to celebrate the end of the month-long fast 2.
During the lunar month of Dhu Al Hijjah, the UAE observes two significant Islamic holidays. First comes Arafat Day on Dhu Al Hijjah 9, in which Muslims worldwide join in prayer and reflection 3. This solemn occasion is followed by Eid Al Adha, celebrated from Dhu Al Hijjah 10 to 12. This major Islamic event is marked by the giving of gifts, feasting with family, and prayers at mosques 4.
Another noteworthy religious occasion in 2024 is the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday. This sacred event, known as Al-Mawlid Al-Nabawi, is expected to fall on Rabi’ Al-Awwal 12, which corresponds to September 25th, 2024. Muslims in the UAE and across the globe honor the birth of the Prophet with special prayers, religious gatherings, and sharing meals with family 5.
In addition to these multi-day events, the UAE also has a single-day holiday to honor their history and achievements. Commemoration Day serves as an annual reminder of all the sacrifices made by the country’s heroes 6.
These are just a few of the national events and festivities UAE residents can look forward to in 2024. Each holiday presents an opportunity to engage in cultural activities, enjoy time with loved ones, and reflect on the nation’s history and progress.
Footnotes
- https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/national/uae-2024-holiday-calendar-when-is-the-next-long-weekend/ar-AA1l1nOh ↩
- https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/uae-announces-official-holidays-for-2024 ↩
- https://publicholidays.ae/2024-dates/ ↩
- https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/national/uae-2024-holiday-calendar-when-is-the-next-long-weekend/ar-AA1l1nOh ↩
- https://whatson.ae/2023/11/public-holidays-in-uae-2024/ ↩
- https://publicholidays.ae/2024-dates/ ↩
School Holidays and Academic Breaks
The academic year in the UAE usually begins in September and ends in June, encompassing three terms. The academic year is divided into trimesters, a system established since the 2010-2011 school year1.
During this period, schools in the UAE have several official holidays and breaks. Some notable holidays include the Prophet’s Birthday on September 29th2, Commemoration Day on December 1st2, and National Day on December 2nd2. Additionally, there are significant Islamic holidays, such as Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha2. Depending on the Islamic calendar, these dates may vary2. In 2024, Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall between April 9th and 12th, while Eid Al Adha will likely take place on June 17th and 18th2.
Here is a brief overview of UAE school holidays for 20242:
| Date | Holiday |
|---|---|
| Jan 1 | New Year’s Day |
| Apr 8-10 | Eid Al-Fitr |
| Jun 15 | Arafat Day |
| Jun 16-18 | Eid Al-Adha |
| Jul 7 | Islamic New Year |
| Sep 15 | Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday |
| Dec 1 | Commemoration Day |
| Dec 2 | UAE National Day |
Apart from these public holidays, schools also schedule two short breaks and a longer summer vacation during the academic year1. Students can make the most of these breaks by spending quality time with family, catching up on studies, or participating in extracurricular activities.
Remember to stay updated on the latest holidays and school breaks, as dates may be subject to change by the Ministry of Education or other regulatory bodies3. This will help families and educators plan better and ensure a balanced academic year for students.
