The long weekend for the Islamic festival Eid Al Adha is approaching in the UAE, expected to fall in mid-June. The specific duration of the holiday will depend on the moon-sighting process that is set to take place on Thursday, June 6. Residents can anticipate either four or five days off, weekends included, based on when the Moon is sighted. The holiday is meant to commemorate the holiest day in Islam, Arafah Day, and the Eid Al Adha festival.
Islamic festivals are determined by the Hijri calendar, which relies on the sighting of the crescent Moon to mark the beginning and end of months. In most countries in the Arab world, including the UAE, the crescent Moon will be looked for on the 29th of the Hijri calendar month Dhul Qa’adah, which falls on June 6. If the Moon is spotted on this day, the following month of Dhul Hijjah will begin on June 7, leading to Arafah Day on June 15 and Eid Al Adha on June 16. This scenario will result in a break from June 15 to June 18, allowing for two weekdays off.
If the Moon is not sighted on June 6, the month of Dhul Hijjah will commence on June 8, with Arafah Day falling on June 16 and Eid Al Adha on June 17. In this case, the holiday period will be from June 16 to June 19, including a five-day break with the weekend. Astronomical calculations suggest that it is unlikely for the Moon to be spotted on June 6, indicating that residents are most likely in for a five-day holiday period.
In preparation for the upcoming holiday, travellers are looking to make the most of the break by planning quick getaways or extended vacations. Popular destinations with affordable and easy visa requirements are being favored, leading to an increase in demand that is impacting airfares. Travel agencies have reported a significant rise in airfares to various destinations, with some seeing up to a 64% increase. To secure better deals, residents are advised to consider travel dates in August, as flying out at the start of the Eid break or summer holidays may not offer the best prices.
As the Eid Al Adha holiday approaches, schools will also be closing for the break and will reopen for a short period before the two-month summer vacation. Many residents are looking to combine the Eid break with the school holidays to enjoy a longer vacation. With the potential for a five-day break, families and individuals are eager to make travel plans and take advantage of the extended holiday period. By staying up to date with the latest news and following relevant channels, residents can ensure they are informed of any changes to the holiday schedule.
