When is the holiday of Eid Al Adha in 2024?

The upcoming major public holiday in the calendar is Eid Al Adha. UAE residents experienced a week-long break for Eid Al Fitr back in April, benefiting both the public and private sectors. Eid Al Adha is expected to follow, likely falling on June 16. Arafat Day, occurring on Dhu Al Hijja 9 in the Islamic calendar, aligns with June 15. Should this prediction hold true, Eid Al Adha, spanning Dhu Al Hijja 10 to 12 in the Islamic calendar, will be observed from June 16 to 18. Similar to Eid Al Fitr, confirmation of the dates will depend on the sighting of the Moon closer to the time.

On June 15th, Arafat Day marks the second day of the week-long Hajj pilgrimage, while Eid Al Adha, known as the "festival of the sacrifice," spans from June 16th to 18th. This holiday commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim, who was tested by God to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as a demonstration of his faith.

In the UAE, like with other religious holidays, Eid Al Adha is a time for gathering with friends and family, often sharing meals, and reflecting on their lives and faith. It's customary for families to have a goat or sheep butchered at an abattoir and distribute the meat among themselves, their relatives, and those in need.

The public holiday duration for Eid Al Adha will likely encompass June 17th and 18th, assuming the holiday begins on June 16th, which falls on a Sunday. Both public and private-sector employees will enjoy these days off work. Confirmation of these dates will occur closer to the time, pending relevant Moon sightings.

Hajj is a significant pilgrimage in Islam where large numbers of Muslims travel to Makkah, with many also visiting Madinah. It's considered one of the five pillars of Islam, along with other fundamental acts of worship, forming a cornerstone of Islamic life. Every able Muslim is required to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. The experience of Hajj is profoundly spiritual for those who undertake it.