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Those of us across the UAE recently enjoyed an extended weekend to mark Eid Al Adha, and now, with the Islamic New Year approaching, could there be another long weekend on the cards?
The holiday, also known as Hijri New Year, marks the end of the Islamic calendar year, which is based on the sighting of the moon, and the start of a new cycle and the first month of the calendar, Muharram.
As the holiday is set to fall this weekend, the question that has been on the minds of many is if there will be an extended break. Last year, UAE citizens and residents enjoyed a day off to mark the holiday, but with Islamic New Year predicted to fall on Sunday, July 7, 2024, this may not be the case this year.
What is Islamic (Hijri) New year?
Islamic New Year, or Hijri New Year, commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s migration (Hijra) from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This significant event marks the start of the Islamic lunar calendar, making it a time of reflection and renewal for Muslims around the world. Unlike the Gregorian New Year, Hijri New Year is a more quiet celebration, focusing on prayer, reflection, and spending time with family.
The date of Hijri New Year changes every year because it is based on the Islamic lunar calendar, which is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian solar calendar. This difference occurs because the lunar calendar follows the phases of the moon, resulting in a year of about 354 – 355 days. As a result, Islamic holidays, including Hijri New Year, shift earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.
Public holidays in the uae
For holidays based on the sighting of the moon, the final days off are determined by the UAE authorities. According to the UAE Cabinet’s resolution no. 27 of 2024 concerning public holidays, apart from Eid holidays, other holidays “may be carried over by a Cabinet decision to the beginning or end of the week”.
While Islamic New Year is set to fall on a Sunday, there could be the possibility a day off may be granted on Friday, July 5 or Monday, July 8. However, we will need to await a confirmation by UAE authorities.
