How Many Holidays Does Dubai Have?

By Anna Duncan

In this article, we will explore the fascinating topic of how many holidays Dubai has. Dubai is known for its vibrant culture, luxurious lifestyle, and impressive skyline. As a global city and a popular tourist destination, it comes as no surprise that Dubai celebrates numerous holidays throughout the year.

Dubai’s Public Holidays

Dubai has a total of official public holidays that are recognized and observed by the government. These holidays are an essential part of Dubai’s cultural heritage and provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to celebrate together.

The weekend in Dubai

Before we dive into the official holidays, let’s first talk about the weekends in Dubai. The weekend in Dubai falls on Fridays and Saturdays. Friday is considered a day of prayer for Muslims, so most businesses are closed until after midday prayers.

Eid Al Fitr

One of the most important religious holidays in Dubai is Eid Al Fitr. This holiday marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting for Muslims.

It is a joyous occasion where families come together to celebrate with feasts, gift-giving, and prayers. Eid Al Fitr usually lasts for three days and is determined by the sighting of the moon.

Eid Al Adha

Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is another significant religious holiday in Dubai. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Like Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha lasts for three days and involves feasting, prayers, and giving back to the community.

National Day

Dubai’s National Day is celebrated on the 2nd of December each year. It marks the anniversary of the United Arab Emirates’ formation and is a time for UAE nationals to express their patriotism and pride. Festivities include fireworks, parades, cultural performances, and traditional Emirati food.

Islamic Holidays in Dubai

In addition to the official public holidays, Dubai also observes various Islamic holidays based on the lunar calendar. These holidays are determined by moon sightings and may vary slightly each year.

Mawlid Al Nabi

Mawlid Al Nabi celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam. It is a time for Muslims to gather and reflect on his teachings. Mawlid Al Nabi is not an official public holiday in Dubai; however, it holds great religious and cultural significance for Muslims around the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dubai has a rich calendar of holidays that reflect its diverse culture and traditions. From official public holidays like Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha to National Day and Islamic observances like Mawlid Al Nabi, Dubai offers numerous opportunities for celebration throughout the year.

Whether you are a resident or a visitor, these holidays provide an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Dubai’s unique atmosphere and experience its vibrant festivities.