Due to start around November 14-18 in 2010
The pilgrimage to Mecca, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and as such is obligatory for all Muslims who are able to do it. As the Haj involves a number of rituals, it takes five to six days to perform.
By law, Muslims employed in the UAE who undertake to perform the Haj must be granted a paid holiday to do so. This is dependent upon the pilgrim returning from Mecca with a document from the authorities there attesting to his or her presence for the duration of the Haj.
Although the 21 days of Haj are recognised by people in the UAE, unlike Ramadan there is no change in daily life here. Retail timings remain the same; office hours are unchanged; and restaurants and entertainment venues operate normally.
