UAE: 4-5 Day Eid Al Adha Holiday Explained Ahead of Moon Sighting

UAE Residents Prepare for Long Eid Al Adha Holiday in Mid-June

The upcoming Eid Al Adha holiday in the UAE promises a long weekend for residents, expected to fall in mid-June. The exact duration of the holiday, whether four or five days, will be determined by the moon-sighting process scheduled for Thursday, June 6. The holiday period will commence based on when the crescent moon is sighted, which signifies the start of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah.

Eid Al Adha, marking the holiest day in Islam known as Arafah Day and followed by the festival itself, provides a total of four days off. The Arafah Day grants one day off, while Eid Al Adha itself spans three days. Islamic festivals are calculated based on the Hijri calendar, with months starting and ending upon the sighting of the crescent moon.

On June 6, most Arab countries, including the UAE, will observe the moon to determine the start of Dhul Hijjah. If the moon is sighted, Dhul Hijjah will begin on June 7. Consequently, Arafah Day will be on June 15 (Dhul Hijjah 9) and Eid Al Adha on June 16 (Dhul Hijjah 10). This scenario will provide a break from Saturday, June 15, to Tuesday, June 18. With the break overlapping the weekend, residents will enjoy two weekdays off.

If the moon is not sighted on June 6, Dhul Hijjah will begin on June 8. Arafah Day will then be observed on June 16 (Dhul Hijjah 9), and Eid Al Adha on June 17 (Dhul Hijjah 10). Under this scenario, the holiday will extend from Sunday, June 16, to Wednesday, June 19. Including the weekend starting from Saturday, June 15, residents will get a five-day break to celebrate the festival.

Astronomical calculations indicate that the moon is unlikely to be spotted on June 6, suggesting that UAE residents may enjoy a five-day holiday. This extended break provides a valuable opportunity for travel and leisure before the summer break begins.

Schools will briefly reopen for just over a week before closing again for the two-month summer vacation. Many residents are planning to combine the Eid break with the school holidays to maximize their vacation time.

Travel trends show that residents are seeking both quick getaways and extended trips, favoring destinations with affordable and easy visa requirements. According to the online travel agency Musafir, airfares are rising due to high demand. Travel app Wego has reported up to a 64 percent increase in airfares to some destinations.

Travel website Skyscanner advises those planning to travel at the start of the Eid break or summer holidays to book early for the best deals. It recommends considering travel dates in August for more affordable options.

Griffiths emphasized the importance of accommodating the evolving needs of travelers while ensuring a seamless experience. “Our aim is to make the holiday experience as pleasant and stress-free as possible,” he said. “By providing accurate information and facilitating easy travel options, we hope to make this Eid Al Adha truly special for everyone.”

As the moon-sighting date approaches, anticipation grows among UAE residents. The long holiday break offers an excellent opportunity for families and individuals to plan trips, engage in festive activities, and spend quality time together. The emphasis on leveraging technology to streamline processes and enhance travel experiences reflects the UAE’s commitment to providing top-notch services to its residents and visitors.

The upcoming Eid Al Adha holiday is not just a time for celebration but also a chance for relaxation and rejuvenation. The extended break allows residents to escape the routine and explore new destinations, whether within the UAE or abroad. With careful planning and early booking, travelers can make the most of this festive season, ensuring memorable experiences and cherished moments with loved ones.

The moon-sighting on June 6 will confirm the exact dates for the holiday, setting the stage for a well-organized and joyous Eid Al Adha celebration. As the UAE prepares for this significant event, the focus remains on creating a harmonious blend of tradition, modernity, and convenience, making this Eid Al Adha a truly remarkable and enjoyable occasion for all.