Long weekends are the most enjoyable holidays in the UAE because you can spend quality time with your family, plan a staycation, short getaways, and much more. In 2023, we only have one holiday left, happening next week from 1 to 3 December for Commemoration Day and National Day. But don't worry, there's good news. The UAE Cabinet has just shared the list of holidays for the public and private sectors for 2024.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, leading the UAE Cabinet, has given approval to the official holidays' calendar for the year 2024 for both the public and private sectors.
New Year's Holiday
The first holiday of 2024 kicks off with a long weekend! Every year, 1 January is a day off for both private and public sectors in the UAE. Since 1 January 2024, falls on a Monday, the first working day of the year will be on Tuesday, 2 January. This means people with a two-day weekend will get to enjoy an extended weekend from Saturday to Monday.
Eid Al Fitr Holidays
Following the Holy Month of Ramadan, the Eid Al Fitr holiday is expected to take place from the 29th day of Ramadan to the 3rd day of Shawwal 1445 AH. The specific dates will be confirmed based on the moon sighting in the coming months.
Arafat Day
Arafat Day holds significant importance in Islam, being regarded as the holiest day in the Islamic calendar. It occurs around 70 days after Eid Al Fitr and signifies the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. In 2024, Arafat Day will be observed on the 9th day of Dhu Al-Hijjah 1445 AH.
Eid Al Adha
Eid Al Adha is one of the most important festivals in the Muslim calendar, commemorating the Prophet Ibrahim's readiness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God's command. In 2024, this festival will take place from the 10th to the 12th day of Dhu Al-Hijjah, 1445 AH.
Hijri New Year/Islamic New Year
Hijri New Year, also known as Islamic New Year, signifies the start of a new lunar Hijri year. In 2024, it will occur on the 1st day of Muharram, 1446 AH.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday
In 2024, Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday will fall on Rabi' Al-Awwal 12, 1446 AH.
UAE National Day
In 2024, UAE National Day is on 2 and 3 December, falling on a Monday and Tuesday. It translates to an extended three-day break for those with a standard two-day weekend.
Certain holidays are determined by the Hijri Islamic calendar, and their corresponding Gregorian dates hinge on the sighting of the moon. Stay tuned for all the official dates.