UAE residents rang in the New Year with a public holiday, but now face a wait for their next break from work.
The UAE Cabinet confirmed holiday dates for both the public and private sector for 2023 towards the end of last year.
It started with a public holiday on January 1, with Eid Al Fitr the next opportunity for the nation to enjoy some additional leisure time.
When is Ramadan 2023?
Eid is the festival which marks the end of Ramadan, which this year will begin in March.
The start date of the holy month will be determined by the sighting of a new crescent moon, as the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle.
Based on current calculations, Ramadan is expected to start on March 23. This means means Eid Al Fitr is set to be celebrated from Thursday, April 20 to Sunday, April 23.
When is the first day off in 2023?
Eid Al Fitr marks the beginning of the Islamic month Shawwal. The Cabinet said the holiday will be between Ramadan 29 and Shawwal 3 which is expected to be from April 20 to 23.
Next comes Arafat Day, the second day of the week-long Hajj pilgrimage, set to take place on Dhu Al Hijja 9, which is expected to be June 27.
Arafat Day will be followed by Eid Al Adha, one of the most important days in the Muslim calendar. It will fall between Dhu Al Hijja 10 and 12 — expected to be June 28 to 30.
The public holiday to mark Islamic New Year falls on July 21.
Prophet Mohammed's birthday follows that, with a public holiday on September 29.
The holiday for National Day falls on December 2 and 3.
UAE Holidays to come in 2023
April 20 to 23: Eid Al Fitr
June 27: Arafat Day
June 28 to 30: Eid Al Adha
July 21: Islamic New Year
September 29: Prophet Mohammed’s birthday
December 2 and 3: UAE National Day
