The United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has announced a four-day Eid al-Adha holiday for public sector employees. The holiday will commence on Saturday, June 15th, and extend until Tuesday, June 18th, 2024. This decision was relayed by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) in a circular issued to all ministries and federal entities. The circular cites a Cabinet Resolution regarding the approved 2024 public holiday calendar for both the public and private sectors.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of the Sacrifice, " is a significant Islamic holiday that commemorates Prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to God. The holiday is celebrated following the Hajj pilgrimage, an annual pilgrimage to Mecca undertaken by Muslims who are physically and financially able.
The first day of the Eid al-Adha holiday coincides with Arafah Day, which is considered the holiest day in Islam. On Arafah Day, pilgrims stand on the Plain of Arafat and supplicate to God for forgiveness and mercy. The following days of Eid al-Adha are marked by المسلمين (al-Muslimeen) attending Eid prayers, sacrificing livestock, distributing meat to the poor and underprivileged, and gathering with family and friends to celebrate.
The Eid al-Adha holiday period is a time for economic activity to flourish in the UAE. Businesses in the retail, hospitality, and tourism sectors traditionally experience a surge in sales as residents and tourists alike gear up for the celebrations. Restaurants typically offer special Eid menus, while shopping malls and stores hold sales and promotions. Travel companies often curate special Eid travel packages to cater to those seeking to vacation during the extended break.
The public sector holiday announcement has been met with positive reactions from UAE residents, particularly those employed by the government. The four-day break provides an opportunity for them to celebrate Eid al-Adha with loved ones, travel within the UAE or abroad, and participate in the праздничные мероприятия (prazdnichnye мероприятия) (festive events) associated with the holiday.