Residents in the UAE can look forward to a long weekend for the Islamic festival of Eid Al Adha, 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.
Determining the Eid Al Adha Holiday
Eid Al Adha, one of the holiest days in Islam, includes a day off for Arafah Day and three days for the festival itself. Islamic festivals follow the Hijri calendar, which is based on the sighting of the crescent moon.
On June 6, countries in the Arab world, including the UAE, will search for the crescent moon on the 29th day of Dhul Qa’adah. If the moon is spotted, the next month, Dhul Hijjah, will begin on June 7. This would place Arafah Day on June 15 and Eid Al Adha on June 16, giving residents a break from Saturday, June 15, to Tuesday, June 18.
If the moon is not spotted on June 6, Dhul Hijjah will start on June 8. Arafah Day would then be on June 16, and Eid Al Adha on June 17, resulting in a holiday from Sunday, June 16, to Wednesday, June 19. This scenario provides a five-day break including the weekend.
Astronomical Predictions
Astronomical calculations suggest the moon is unlikely to be sighted on June 6, meaning a five-day holiday is expected.
Planning for the Eid Break
With schools reopening briefly before the two-month summer break, many families are planning to extend their vacations. Online travel agency Musafir reports a surge in demand for destinations with affordable and easy visa requirements, though airfares are rising. Travel app Wego has observed up to a 64% increase in airfares to popular destinations.
Travel website Skyscanner advises those looking to fly out at the start of the Eid break or summer holidays to consider dates in August for better deals.
This upcoming long weekend offers UAE residents a perfect opportunity to enjoy a well-deserved break and celebrate Eid Al Adha with their families.
