UAE residents can look forward to a year filled with leisure as the Cabinet announces a list of at least 13 public holidays for 2024. What’s more exciting is that four holidays will create extended weekends, with the lengthiest break spanning an impressive six days.
In addition to the generous public holidays, employees in the UAE are entitled to 30 annual leaves, providing ample opportunities for travel and relaxation. Recent travel surveys highlight that many expatriates utilize their annual leave to explore their home countries, strategically aligning these days with public holidays for extended vacations or delightful staycations.
Mapping Out the Holidays
The dates disclosed align with the Islamic calendar. For a comprehensive 2024 plan, we refer to the Hijri calendar published on the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) website. Given that Hijri calendar months vary between 29 and 30 days, dependent on the sighting of the crescent Moon, exact dates will be confirmed closer to each occasion by relevant authorities.
Happy New Year: 3-Day Weekend
UAE residents will kickstart 2024 with a bang and a long weekend. January 1, the first official holiday of the year, conveniently falls on a Monday, ensuring a delightful three-day weekend to recover from New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Eid Al Fitr: 6-Day Break
The joyous celebration of Eid Al Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, promises a substantial break. The government designates Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3 as a public holiday, equating to a four or five-day hiatus, contingent on the Moon sighting. According to the IACAD Hijri calendar, Ramadan is anticipated to be 29 days, translating to a six-day break combined with the weekend.
Arafah Day, Eid Al Adha: 5 Days Off
The holiest day in Islam, Arafah Day, observed on Dhul Hijjah 9, is followed by the three-day festive Eid Al Adha. Mark your calendars for Sunday, June 16, to Wednesday, June 19, inclusive of the weekend on Saturday, June 15, for a rejuvenating five-day holiday.
Islamic New Year: 1-Day Holiday
As the second new year of 2024 approaches in July, Muharram 1 falls on Sunday, July 7. Although it’s a day off, it provides a welcome pause for those without a Sunday weekend.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday
The celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, presumed on Rabi Al Awwal 12, awaits confirmation of its Gregorian calendar date.
National Day: 4-Day Holiday
The year’s grand finale comes with the National Day celebrations on December 2 and 3. Falling on Monday and Tuesday, respectively, coupled with the preceding Saturday-Sunday weekend, marks a luxurious four-day holiday for everyone.
Conclusion
In 2024, UAE residents are in for a treat with a calendar generously sprinkled with public holidays and extended weekends. Whether it’s a quick getaway or a leisurely staycation, ample opportunities await to recharge and create lasting memories.
