Cultural Experience at its Best During the Public Holidays in Dubai:
The UAE or the United Arab Emirates is a federation of 7 emirates, of which Dubai is a populous and world-renowned metropolis. Islam is the official religion of the state, practised by at least 90% of its population. Most of the observances and public holidays are based entirely on the Islamic faith and culture. It is always a good idea to consider these dates while planning your vacation in Dubai. Here are some of the most important public holidays in Dubai with their approximate dates.
New Year's Celebrations in Dubai
New Year’s Eve Fireworks – 1st January
The dawn of the Gregorian calendar year is celebrated in Dubai, the same as all over the world. If you plan your holidays to Dubai during this time of the year, you are guaranteed to be a part of the celebration that includes fireworks and parties. The tallest structure in Dubai, the Burj Khalifa, is the centrepiece for a firework display.
Ascension Day
Al Isra’a Wal Mi’raj, one of the Islamic public holidays, is celebrated on the 27th day of Rajab, the Islamic month. This night observes the journey of Muhammad with Allah to heaven from Makah, en route Jerusalem. Since this journey was made in one night, the festival is also called the Ascension Day. This holiday is followed by a long weekend, where families get together to offer prayers and break bread amidst an illuminated city. The marketplaces are filled with eateries and stalls brimming with freshly cooked meat and meals.
Eid in Dubai
Eid Al Fitr
‘The festivity of breaking fast’ is what Eid Al Fitr roughly translates to. The holy month of Ramadan ends on this day, which is one of the unique Dubai public holidays. Eid holidays in Dubai are one of the best times of the year to visit the city and be a part of the celebration. It is an overwhelming experience in which people celebrate tolerance, kindness and unity in their devotion to Allah. The traditional celebrations follow for three days, where the entire city is rejoicing by feasting on meat delicacies, donating to the poor and needy, and spending time with their families.
Eid Al Adha
‘The festival of sacrifice’, or Eid Al Adha is another famous public holiday in Dubai. It honours Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son for the sake of Allah. On this day, goats are sacrificed bearing significance to Allah’s message to Ibrahim, wherein he accepted the sacrifice of a goat instead of Ismail. The goats sacrificed are divided into three portions: one for the poor, one for the friends and relatives, and one for the family. It is a time for thanksgiving and is a joyful celebration.
While planning your vacation, note that Dubai public holidays or Muslim festivities are always timed according to the sightings of the moon and its numerous phases. The dates mentioned on calendars usually tend to be approximations.
Since many tourist events and destinations are closed during the celebratory times, you can contact the DAMAC Maison concierge for more information.
