Have you ever wondered why Fridays and Saturdays are the official weekend in Dubai? Well, there are historical and cultural reasons behind this unique arrangement. Let’s delve into the fascinating story of why Dubai chose to have a different weekend than most countries around the world.
The Islamic Tradition
Dubai is a predominantly Muslim country and follows the Islamic tradition. According to Islamic teachings, Friday is considered a holy day, known as “Jumu’ah.”
It holds special significance for Muslims as it is the day of congregational prayer at mosques. Muslims are encouraged to gather at the mosque for the midday prayer, which is performed in congregation.
Fun fact: The midday prayer on Fridays consists of a sermon (Khutbah) delivered by an Imam, who provides religious guidance and addresses important issues facing the community.
The Workweek Shift
In 2006, the government of Dubai decided to make Thursday and Friday its official weekend days instead of Friday and Saturday. This shift was primarily aimed at aligning Dubai’s workweek with international markets and promoting business activities with countries that had a different weekend structure.
This change allowed businesses in Dubai to have three working days overlapping with both North America and Europe—making it easier for international trade and financial transactions. It also facilitated better coordination with regional partners in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) who followed a similar workweek pattern.
A Multicultural Society
Dubai has transformed into a vibrant multicultural city that attracts people from all over the world. Many expatriates living in Dubai come from countries that follow a different weekend structure. By having Thursday and Friday as its official weekend, Dubai accommodates its diverse population by providing them an opportunity to observe their respective religious practices on their designated days off.
Did you know? The UAE Labor Law mandates that every employee is entitled to at least one day off per week, and employers must ensure that this requirement is met.
The Weekend Experience
Dubai’s weekend experience is unique due to its Thursday-Friday arrangement. On Thursdays, the city comes alive with excitement as residents and visitors prepare for the weekend ahead. Malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues stay open late into the night, making it a popular time for socializing and leisure activities.
Then comes Friday, the official day of rest when people have more time to relax, spend time with their families, or engage in recreational activities. Families often gather for a leisurely brunch or enjoy outdoor pursuits such as beach outings or desert adventures.
In Conclusion
In Dubai, the choice of having Friday and Saturday as the official weekend days is a reflection of its cultural values, international business aspirations, and consideration for its multicultural society. This arrangement ensures that religious observances are respected while promoting economic growth and facilitating global connections.
Remember: When you visit Dubai or plan business dealings in the city, keep in mind that Thursday and Friday are the days when most establishments will be closed or operating on limited hours.