The UAE’s next public holiday is nearly here, and residents are already preparing for a much-needed break. Eid Al Adha is expected to bring a four-day weekend in June, although the exact dates remain unconfirmed for now.
Eid Al Adha Follows the Lunar Calendar
Unlike holidays fixed by the Gregorian calendar, Eid Al Adha depends on the Islamic Hijri calendar. This calendar is based on the moon’s cycles. Each Hijri month lasts either 29 or 30 days. However, the length isn’t known until the 29th day, when the crescent moon is observed.
Eid Al Adha begins on the 9th of Dhu Al Hijjah with Arafat Day, followed by Eid celebrations on the 10th, 11th, and 12th of the month. This means the government will likely confirm the holiday about a week in advance.
Key Dates and Expected Scenarios
Dhu Al Qa’dah, the current Hijri month, began on Tuesday, April 29. If the month lasts 29 days, it will end on Tuesday, May 27. In this case, Dhu Al Hijjah would begin on Wednesday, May 28. Arafat Day would then fall on Thursday, June 5, with the Eid break running through Sunday, June 8.
If Dhu Al Qa’dah has 30 days, it will end on Wednesday, May 28. This means Dhu Al Hijjah would begin on Thursday, May 29. Arafat Day would then be on Friday, June 6, and the holiday would last until Monday, June 9.
Moon Sighting to Confirm Final Dates
The official Eid break will be announced once the moon is sighted, which will happen in the final days of May. Until then, residents can tentatively plan for either a Thursday or Friday start to the long weekend.
Either way, UAE citizens and residents can look forward to a four-day break that offers rest, celebration, and time with family.
