The year 2024 is packed with exciting public holidays for residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With a total of 14 official days off for both public and private sectors, there's ample time to relax, explore, and celebrate throughout the year. Whether you're planning a family trip, a staycation, or simply some well-deserved rest, these public holidays provide the perfect opportunity to make the most of your free time. Let’s dive into the details and help you plan your year ahead!
Upcoming Holiday: Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday
The next public holiday to look forward to in the UAE is Prophet Muhammad's birthday, which falls on Sunday, September 15th, 2024. This day, known as Mawlid al-Nabi, commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and is an important religious occasion observed by Muslims around the world. Although this particular holiday is not always a guaranteed day off for workers in all sectors, it remains a meaningful day for reflection and celebration.
Across the UAE, residents may notice special prayers, charitable events, and gatherings marking the significance of the day. Families and communities come together, with some choosing to spend the day by visiting mosques, engaging in quiet reflection, or organizing community meals to share blessings. Though it’s not an extended break, the holiday offers a peaceful Sunday to observe religious customs or spend time with loved ones.
December Delights: Commemoration Day and National Day
As the year winds down, UAE residents can look forward to an extended break in early December. Commemoration Day, also known as Martyr's Day, will be observed on Sunday, December 1st, 2024. This holiday honors the Emirati soldiers and civilians who have lost their lives in service to the country. The day is marked with solemn ceremonies and tributes, including a moment of silence across the nation.
Following Commemoration Day is the UAE’s National Day, celebrated with much pride and festivity on Monday, December 2nd, and Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024. This long weekend provides the perfect opportunity for a short getaway or time to enjoy the vibrant celebrations. The National Day festivities are some of the most colorful and lively events of the year, with fireworks, parades, cultural performances, and concerts held across the country. UAE National Day commemorates the unification of the seven Emirates in 1971 and is a time of great patriotism and joy for Emiratis and residents alike.
During this festive long weekend, cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai host large-scale events, while shopping malls, parks, and public spaces are decked out with flags and decorations. It’s an ideal time for families and friends to come together and experience the UAE’s rich heritage.
A Look Back at Eid Celebrations
The year 2024 also brought two significant religious holidays—Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha—both offering extended breaks for residents.
- Eid Al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, granted UAE residents a generous nine-day holiday in 2024. This holiday, expected to fall between Monday, April 8th and Friday, April 12th, is a time of communal prayers, family gatherings, and acts of charity. It’s a celebratory period where fasting is broken with feasts, and many take the opportunity to travel or unwind.
- Eid Al-Adha, another major Islamic holiday, offered a five-day respite in the summer of 2024. Beginning with Arafat Day on Saturday, June 15th, and extending from Sunday, June 16th to Tuesday, June 18th, the holiday honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. Eid Al-Adha is celebrated with prayers, feasts, and the ritual sacrifice of an animal, the meat of which is distributed to the needy.
Both Eid celebrations are significant religious events, offering time for spiritual reflection, charity, and social connection. These extended breaks provide a chance for residents to spend quality time with their families, whether at home or while exploring the UAE and beyond.
UAE Public Holidays in 2024: The Full List
Here’s a comprehensive look at the official public holidays in the UAE for 2024. While some of these dates are based on moon sightings and may shift slightly, this list provides a helpful guide for planning your time off throughout the year.
- Monday, January 1st: New Year's Day
- Monday, April 8th to Friday, April 12th: Eid Al-Fitr
- Saturday, June 15th: Arafat Day
- Sunday, June 16th to Tuesday, June 18th: Eid Al-Adha
- Sunday, July 7th: Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year)
- Sunday, September 15th: Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday (Mawlid al-Nabi)
- Monday, December 2nd: UAE National Day
- Tuesday, December 3rd: UAE National Day Holiday
As mentioned earlier, some of these holidays are based on lunar cycles, so it’s essential to stay updated with announcements closer to the time, especially for holidays like Eid.
Plan Ahead with Predicted Dates
To make the most of your time off, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead. While official dates for some holidays, such as Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha, are subject to moon sightings and may shift by a day or two, you can start planning vacations, staycations, or other activities based on the predicted dates listed above. Travel during public holidays is popular in the UAE, so booking early is key to securing great deals on flights and accommodations.
Additionally, many residents use these breaks to explore the UAE's neighboring countries, such as Oman, Saudi Arabia, or other parts of the Middle East, where cultural festivals and holiday celebrations also take place.
Make the Most of Your Holidays
With a well-rounded selection of public holidays in 2024, UAE residents have plenty of opportunities to explore, relax, and engage in a variety of activities. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful staycation, embark on an exciting adventure, or simply indulge in the numerous events and festivals happening across the Emirates, there’s something for everyone.
Here are some ideas to make the most of your time off:
- Staycations: With luxury resorts, desert retreats, and beachside escapes aplenty, a staycation in the UAE is always a great option. Consider booking a weekend at one of the many five-star hotels in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Ras Al Khaimah.
- Outdoor Adventures: Take advantage of the cooler months during the Eid holidays or National Day weekend to go camping, hiking, or exploring the beautiful landscapes of the UAE. Popular destinations include Hatta, Jebel Jais, and the Liwa Desert.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the UAE by visiting historical sites, museums, and cultural festivals during the holidays. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, Dubai Opera, and Sharjah’s art districts offer unique experiences.
- Family Fun: For those with children, the UAE offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions, from theme parks like Legoland and Ferrari World to water parks and interactive museums.
The UAE’s public holidays in 2024 provide the perfect balance between rest, reflection, and celebration. From religious observances like Eid to national festivities such as UAE National Day, there’s no shortage of opportunities to enjoy quality time with family and friends. Be sure to mark your calendars and plan ahead to make the most of these breaks. Whether you're staying local or traveling abroad, 2024 promises to be a year full of exciting holidays and adventures in the UAE.
360 Agency Middle East is your trusted partner in navigating the Middle Eastern hospitality job market.
For Job Seekers: Visit https://www.360agency.me/jobseekers to explore exciting career opportunities and access personalized career guidance.
For Employers: Visit https://www.360agency.me/employers-page to learn how 360 Agency can help you build a high-performing team that delivers exceptional guest experiences.
The Middle East is calling – embark on your hospitality career journey today!
For job inquiries, contact our WhatsApp Onboarding number here (+971 58 550 0125) or through Email: apply@360agency.me
Comments