The United Arab Emirates' Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced a four-day paid holiday for private sector employees in celebration of Eid al-Fitr, the holiday marking the end of Ramadan. This decision, which coincides with the public sector holiday dates, grants UAE residents a potentially longer break depending on the official confirmation of the Eid al-Fitr sighting.
The official break begins on Monday, April 8th, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. It extends until the 3rd of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan. If Ramadan lasts for 29 days, Eid al-Fitr would fall on April 8th, aligning perfectly with the announced break. However, the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, and the exact start of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon.
Should the crescent moon be sighted on April 7th, signifying the end of Ramadan, private sector employees would enjoy a four-day break from April 8th to 11th. This would grant residents a shorter Eid al-Fitr weekend. Conversely, if the sighting occurs on April 8th, the break would effectively extend to a nine-day holiday due to the following weekend. This extended break would see employees return to work on April 15th.
Regardless of the moon sighting, the MoHRE announcement offers UAE residents a significant paid holiday to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. This period is a time for المسلمين (Muslims) to come together, attend prayers, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals with family and friends. The extended break, subject to the moon sighting, provides a welcome opportunity for residents to travel or spend quality time with loved ones.
Businesses across the UAE are likely to factor in the potential nine-day break when finalizing schedules and operations during this period. The MoHRE announcement ensures a standardized paid holiday for private sector employees, allowing them to participate in and celebrate Eid al-Fitr traditions.