DUBAI // Monday will be the first day of Eid al Fitr, according to the official moon sighting committee.
The committee is responsible for overseeing the sighting of the crescent moon, which marks the end of the holy month.
Astronomy experts said there was a particular difficulty this year because the sun and moon set at almost the same time, making visibility difficult.
Sultan bin Saeed Al Badi, chairman of the moon sighting committee and minister of justice said: “‘After exhausting all legitimate methods and making contacts with neighbouring countries, the Shawwal moon was sighted and therefore Sunday, 27th July 2014 is the completion day of Ramadan and Monday 28th July, the 1st of Shawwal 1435, is the first day of Eid Al Fitr.”
Government employees have received five days holiday for Eid Al Fitr, which, with weekends tagged on either side, will give them nine consecutive days off work.
The Eid holiday began on Sunday with the final day being Thursday, July 31.
Private sector workers will not enjoy the same break time, however. They have been given just the two first days of Eid off.
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