Islamic New Year: Will the UAE Get a Holiday?
Islamic New Year: Will the UAE Get a Holiday?
As the Hijri New Year, also known as the Islamic New Year, approaches, many in the UAE are wondering if they can expect a long weekend. The Hijri New Year marks the first day of the Islamic lunar calendar, beginning with Muharram.
The Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, unlike the solar-based Gregorian calendar. This difference results in varying dates for Islamic events each year. In 2023, the Hijri New Year was observed on July 21, a Friday, and both public and private sectors enjoyed a holiday. This year, the Islamic New Year is anticipated to begin on Sunday, July 7. But does this ensure a holiday? Not necessarily.
Resolution No. 27 of 2024 states that “with the exception of Eid holidays, any of the official holidays … may be carried over by a Cabinet decision to the beginning or end of the week.” Therefore, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) might declare Friday, July 5, 2024, or Monday, July 8, 2024, as a holiday.
Hijri New Year, which comes from the Arabic word "Al Hijra" meaning 'migration,' marks the Prophet Muhammad's (Peace Be Upon Him) journey from Makkah to Al Madina El Monawara in 622 AD.
This article was posted on UAEMoments