The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced that Sunday, July 7, will be a public holiday for the private sector to observe Islamic New Year. This means that for those who usually enjoy a Saturday-Sunday weekend, there won’t be an extended break this time.
The Islamic, or Hijri New Year, heralds the beginning of Muharram, the first of 12 months on the Islamic calendar.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has announced that Sunday, 7th of July (1st Muharram), will be an official paid public holiday for all private sector establishments in the UAE in celebration of the new Hijri year 1446 AH.#MoHRE #UAE
— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) July 2, 2024
What is the Hijri year?
The Hijri year is derived from the Arabic word for migration, referencing Prophet Mohammed’s (peace be upon him) journey from Mecca to Medina, two sacred cities in present-day Saudi Arabia. This significant event in Islamic history occurred in 622 AD and marks the beginning of the Hijri or Islamic calendar, starting with the year 1 AH (After Hijra).
Remaining holidays for 2024
Prophet Mohammed’s birthday
The holiday is generally a time for introspection rather than exuberant celebrations, with events being more subdued.
The UAE Cabinet had earlier announced that this year’s (PBUH) birthday is expected to fall on Sunday, September 15.
Commemoration Day and National Day
National Day celebrations fall in December every year, and 2024 will be no different.
Commemoration Day is expected to fall on Sunday December 1, meaning you can expect a public holiday on Monday December 2 and Tuesday December 3.
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