What Days Are the Weekend in Dubai?
Dubai is a bustling city known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and exciting attractions. If you’re planning a trip to Dubai or are new to the city, it’s important to know what days constitute the weekend, as this can affect your travel plans and your overall experience. In Dubai, the weekend falls on Fridays and Saturdays, which is different from many other countries where Saturday and Sunday are considered the weekend.
Weekend Days in Dubai
The weekend in Dubai starts on Friday, which is considered a holy day for Muslims. This day holds significant religious importance as it is when Muslims gather for congregational prayer at mosques across the city. The Friday prayer, also known as Jummah prayer, is an integral part of Islamic practice, and many businesses and government offices have reduced working hours or close entirely during this time.
Saturday follows Friday and serves as the second day of the weekend in Dubai. It is a regular day off for most employees working in both public and private sectors.
Working Days in Dubai
In Dubai, Sunday through Thursday are considered working days. Government offices, banks, schools, and most businesses operate from Sunday to Thursday with standard working hours typically starting around 8:00 AM and ending around 6:00 PM. However, it’s important to note that these timings may vary depending on the specific organization or industry.
Impact on Visitors
If you’re visiting Dubai as a tourist or planning business meetings in the city, it’s crucial to consider the local weekend days when making arrangements. Many popular tourist attractions such as malls, markets, restaurants, and entertainment venues operate as usual on Fridays and Saturdays.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that some businesses may have modified timings or be closed during Friday prayer hours. Additionally, it’s advisable to check the opening hours of specific attractions or establishments in advance, especially during religious holidays or special occasions.
Public Holidays
Dubai celebrates a range of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays can also impact the operating hours of businesses and attractions in the city.
During public holidays, it’s common for offices, schools, and government institutions to be closed. However, shopping malls and tourist attractions often remain open with extended hours to accommodate visitors.
- Eid Al Fitr: This holiday marks the end of Ramadan and is a time of celebration for Muslims worldwide.
- Eid Al Adha: Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, this holiday commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
- National Day: Celebrated on December 2nd each year, this day marks the UAE’s formation and is a time for patriotic celebrations across the country.
In conclusion, Dubai’s weekend falls on Fridays and Saturdays. Sunday through Thursday are considered working days in the city.
It’s essential for visitors to be aware of these days when planning their itinerary or arranging business meetings. Understanding Dubai’s weekend structure will ensure a smooth experience during your time in this vibrant city.