Muscat: On Sunday, 7 July 2024, employees in both the public and private sectors will have the day off as an official holiday. This announcement was made in celebration of the Holy Prophet’s Hijra Anniversary and the beginning of the new Hijri year 1446 AH. The Ministry of Labour has also stated that employers have the option to have their employees work on this day if it is necessary for their operations, but they must compensate the workers for their time.
Employees across Oman can look forward to a day of rest and reflection on this special occasion. The Holy Prophet’s Hijra Anniversary marks the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD, a significant event in Islamic history. It is a day of remembrance and prayer for Muslims around the world, and the official holiday allows employees to observe this important occasion with their families and communities.
Both public and private sector employees can take this opportunity to celebrate the start of the new Hijri year 1446 AH. The Islamic lunar calendar is followed by Muslims worldwide, and this holiday marks the beginning of a new year in this calendar. It is a time for renewal and new beginnings, and employees can use this day off to set intentions for the year ahead and spend time with loved ones.
As per the Ministry of Labour’s guidelines, employers can require their employees to work on this holiday if it is essential for their business operations. However, they must ensure that the workers are compensated for their time and effort. This allows businesses to continue running smoothly while also respecting the rights of their employees to observe and celebrate the holiday.
The announcement of this official holiday demonstrates the government’s commitment to promoting religious and cultural observances in Oman. By granting employees a day off to celebrate the Holy Prophet’s Hijra Anniversary and the new Hijri year, the government is recognizing the importance of these events in the lives of its citizens. It also shows a recognition of the diverse religious and cultural traditions present in the country.
In conclusion, the official holiday on Sunday, 7 July 2024, for the Holy Prophet’s Hijra Anniversary and the start of the new Hijri year is a time for employees in Oman to rest, reflect, and celebrate. Whether observing the historical significance of the Prophet’s migration or marking the beginning of a new lunar year, employees can take this day to connect with their faith, family, and community. Employers also have the option to require work on this day if necessary, but they must compensate their employees for their time. This holiday serves as a reminder of the importance of religious and cultural traditions in Oman and highlights the government’s commitment to honoring these observances.
