As we step into the fresh beginnings of 2024, we are buzzing with excitement to discover what the UAE has in store for us in terms of official holidays and festivals.
Imagine all the possibilities—planning those long-awaited weekends away, dreaming up vacation adventures, or simply figuring out the best times for rest and celebration.
Guess what — you're in the right place to get all the info you need!
Our blog is your go-to guide for exploring the UAE's 2024 holidays and festivals list. Stick around for all the details and start marking your calendars!
Holiday/Festival | Number of Days Off | Long Weekends |
New Year's Day | 1 | Yes |
Eid Al Fitr | 4-5 | Yes |
Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha | 4 | Yes |
Islamic New Year | 1 | No |
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday | 1 | No |
National Day | 2 | Yes |
Celebrated on January 1, this marks the first day of the year on the Gregorian calendar. It's a time for UAE residents to welcome the New Year with fireworks, festivities, and gatherings.
This festival marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Lasting for a few days, it starts on the first day of Shawwal. Families celebrate it with special meals, prayers, and giving charity.
Arafah Day precedes Eid Al Adha, marking the climax of the Hajj pilgrimage. Eid Al Adha, or the ‘Festival of Sacrifice’, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
The Islamic New Year (or Hijri New Year) marks the beginning of a new lunar Islamic calendar year. It is considered a time of reflection and prayer.
This holiday commemorates the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad. Observed on the 12th day of Rabi' al-awwal, the 3rd month in the Islamic calendar, it's marked by religious services and gatherings.
Celebrated on December 2, the UAE National Day marks the country’s formal nationalisation from the British Protectorate Treaties and the unification of the Emirates in 1971. It's celebrated with fireworks, car rallies, dance shows, and cultural events.
As we close the chapter on our preview of UAE's holidays and festivals for 2024, we're set for a year sparkling with tradition, unity, and joy.
From the lively fireworks of New Year's Day to the rich, reflective moments of Eid and the patriotic zeal of National Day, every festival is a doorway to shared moments and cherished memories.
Get ready for a year filled with laughter, reflection, and togetherness. Enjoy your 2024 in the UAE — may it be as vibrant and fulfilling as the festivals we anticipate!
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