Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
---|---|---|---|
Sunday | Jan 01,2023 | New Year's Day | National holiday |
Saturday | Feb 18,2023 | Leilat al-Meiraj (The Prophet's Ascension) | Observance |
Thursday | Mar 23,2023 | Ramadan Start | Observance |
Thursday | Apr 20,2023 | Eid al-Fitr Holiday | National holiday |
Friday | Apr 21,2023 | Eid al-Fitr | National holiday |
Saturday | Apr 22,2023 | Eid al-Fitr Holiday | National holiday |
Sunday | Apr 23,2023 | Eid al-Fitr Holiday | National holiday |
Tuesday | Jun 20,2023 | Hajj season begins (Tentative Date) | Observance |
Tuesday | Jun 27,2023 | Arafat (Hajj) Day | National holiday |
Wednesday | Jun 28,2023 | Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) | National holiday |
Thursday | Jun 29,2023 | Eid al-Adha Holiday | National holiday |
Friday | Jun 30,2023 | Eid al-Adha Holiday | National holiday |
Friday | Jul 21,2023 | Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year) | National holiday |
Friday | Sep 29,2023 | Mouloud (Tentative Date) | National holiday |
Thursday | Nov 30,2023 | Commemoration Day | Observance |
Saturday | Dec 02,2023 | National Day | National holiday |
Sunday | Dec 03,2023 | National Day Holiday | National holiday |
Sunday | Dec 31,2023 | New Year's Eve | Observance |
New Year's Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year in the UAE. It's a time for fresh beginnings, reflection on the past year, and setting resolutions. Many people in the UAE enjoy fireworks, parties, and special events to welcome the new year with their friends and families.
Leilat al-Meiraj, also known as Isra and Mi'raj, commemorates the miraculous night journey of the Prophet Muhammad. It falls on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. This day holds great cultural and religious significance for Muslims in the UAE, who engage in prayers and reflection on the Prophet's journey.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and its start is determined by the sighting of the moon. It is a holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims in the UAE. It's a time of heightened spirituality and community bonding as families and friends gather for iftar (breaking the fast) each evening.
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is a joyous celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. It's a time of feasting, giving to charity (Zakat al-Fitr), and exchanging gifts. Families in the UAE come together to offer prayers, share meals, and strengthen bonds during this festive occasion.
The start of the Hajj season in the UAE signifies the beginning of the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca. This pilgrimage is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. It serves as a reminder of unity and equality among all Muslims, regardless of their backgrounds.
Arafat Day, which falls on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, is a critical component of the Hajj pilgrimage. Pilgrims gather at the plain of Arafat, where they engage in prayer, reflection, and supplication. This day symbolizes the importance of humility and seeking forgiveness before God.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God's command. It involves the sacrifice of an animal and the distribution of its meat among family, friends, and those in need. It's a time of charity and giving in the UAE.
Al-Hijra, the Islamic New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year. It is a time for Muslims in the UAE to reflect on their spiritual journey and make resolutions for self-improvement. This holiday emphasizes the importance of following the Islamic lunar calendar for religious events.
Mouloud, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. It is observed on the 12th day of the Islamic month of Rabi' al-Awwal. This holiday involves various festive activities, including processions, lectures, and recitations of poetry about the Prophet's life and teachings.
Commemoration Day, observed on December 1st, is a day to honor and remember the UAE's martyrs who sacrificed their lives in service to their nation. It reflects the country's commitment to peace and security. People in the UAE participate in ceremonies and pay their respects to the fallen heroes.
National Day, celebrated on December 2nd, marks the UAE's unification in 1971. It is a day of patriotic pride, with grand parades, fireworks, cultural performances, and various festivities. Emiratis and expatriates come together to celebrate the country's achievements and heritage.
The National Day Holiday is an extension of the celebrations on December 2nd. It allows people in the UAE to enjoy additional time with their families and friends, participate in various events, and immerse themselves in the spirit of national unity and pride.
New Year's Eve, celebrated on December 31st, is a night of joyous gatherings, fireworks, and parties in the UAE. It marks the transition from the old year to the new, and people often attend dazzling events to welcome the upcoming year with hope, optimism, and enthusiasm.