Is it holiday in UAE?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular destination for tourists and expatriates alike, known for its luxurious lifestyle, vibrant culture, and year-round warm weather. However, with its diverse population and various religious and cultural events, it is essential to understand the UAE’s holiday schedule to plan your visits and activities accordingly. In this article, we will explore the UAE’s holiday calendar, including public holidays, religious festivals, and seasonal events.
Public Holidays in the UAE
The UAE has a total of 13 public holidays, which are celebrated across the country. These holidays are based on both Islamic and Christian calendars and include:
1. New Year’s Day (January 1st): Celebrates the start of the Gregorian calendar.
2. Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year): Marks the first day of the Islamic lunar year.
3. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid al-Nabi): Commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.
4. Eid al-Fitr: Celebrates the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
5. Eid al-Adha: Marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage and commemorates the willingness of Prophet Abraham to sacrifice his son.
6. Ramadan: The Islamic holy month of fasting, observed by Muslims worldwide.
7. Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year): The second Hijri New Year celebrated in the UAE.
8. National Day (December 2nd): Celebrates the formation of the UAE in 1971.
9. UAE Women’s Day (March 8th): Celebrates the achievements of women in the UAE.
10. UAE Youth Day (February 12th): Celebrates the youth of the UAE and their contributions to the nation.
11. Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year): The third Hijri New Year celebrated in the UAE.
12. Christmas Day (December 25th): Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
13. Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year): The fourth and final Hijri New Year celebrated in the UAE.
Religious Festivals
In addition to public holidays, the UAE also celebrates various religious festivals, including:
1. Ramadan: Muslims in the UAE fast from dawn until sunset during this holy month, and many businesses and restaurants close during the day.
2. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: These festivals are celebrated with family gatherings, gifts, and festive meals.
3. Christmas: Christians in the UAE celebrate Christmas with family and friends, often attending church services and enjoying festive meals.
Seasonal Events
The UAE also hosts several seasonal events, such as:
1. Dubai Shopping Festival (January/February): A month-long shopping festival featuring discounts, promotions, and entertainment.
2. Dubai International Film Festival (December): A celebration of cinema from around the world.
3. Dubai Desert Classic (February): A prestigious golf tournament held at the Emirates Golf Club.
4. Dubai World Cup (March): One of the world’s richest horse races, attracting visitors from around the globe.
In conclusion, the UAE has a rich calendar of holidays, festivals, and events that cater to its diverse population. By understanding the country’s holiday schedule, you can plan your visits and activities to make the most of your time in this beautiful and vibrant nation.
