Get ready for another long weekend in the UAE! Astronomers have predicted the dates for Eid Al Adha, a major Islamic holiday, offering residents a potential five-day break in June.
According to the Emirates Astronomy Society, Sunday, June 16th is the likely start of Eid Al Adha celebrations, with the Day of Arafat falling on the same day. This would mark the beginning of a three-day public holiday in the UAE.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, further predicts that Thursday, June 20th could be the end of Tashriq, signifying the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage season.
Five Days of Rest?
When combined with the existing weekend, this prediction translates to a potential five-day break from work for UAE residents – a welcome respite from the summer heat. It’s important to note that this is a prediction, and official confirmation of public holidays typically occurs closer to the date.
The Importance of Dhu al-Hijjah
The Emirates Astronomy Society also predicts the start of Dhu al-Hijjah, the Islamic lunar month during which Eid Al Adha falls, to be Saturday, June 8th. This follows their earlier prediction of Thursday, May 9th as the beginning of the current month, Dhu al-Qi’dah.
Dhu al-Hijjah holds immense significance in Islam. It’s the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is traditionally a period marked by the Hajj pilgrimage. Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid Al Adha, which falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah.
A Time for Reflection and Celebration
Eid Al Adha commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s (peace be upon him) willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael (peace be upon him) as an act of obedience to God. Muslims traditionally attend special prayers, exchange gifts, and share meals with family and friends during this joyous occasion.
Hajj and Eid Al Adha
Hajj, a week-long pilgrimage to Mecca, is a core pillar of Islam that Muslims who are physically and financially able are obligated to undertake at least once in their lifetime. Eid Al Adha falls on the third day of Hajj, making it a time of reflection and celebration for Muslims around the world.
Uncertain Confirmation of Public Holidays
While public holidays and long weekends in the UAE are typically announced at the beginning of the year, many Islamic holidays follow the lunar calendar, making definitive confirmation challenging until closer to the date.
Last year, for example, the exact duration of the Eid Al Fitr holiday wasn’t confirmed until the 29th day of Ramadan, the preceding month.
Looking Forward to a Joyful Celebration
Although official confirmation is still pending, residents of the UAE can look forward to a potential five-day break for Eid Al Adha in June. This predicted long weekend offers a perfect opportunity to celebrate with loved ones and embrace the spirit of this important Islamic holiday.