Most countries in the Arab world will observe the crescent moon on the 29th of the Hijri calendar month Dhul Qa’adah, which falls on June 6.
As the Islamic festival of Eid Al Adha approaches, UAE residents can look forward to a long weekend in mid-June. The exact duration of the holiday, which can be either four or five days, will be determined by the moon-sighting process on Thursday, June 6.
Eid Al Adha, which marks the holiest day in Islam—Arafah Day—and the festival itself, is calculated according to the Hijri calendar months. The start and end of these months depend on the sighting of the crescent moon.
Moon-Sighting and Holiday Schedule
Most Arab countries, including the UAE, will observe the crescent moon on the 29th of the Hijri calendar month Dhul Qa’adah, which falls on June 6. If the moon is spotted on this date, the following day (June 7) will mark the beginning of Dhul Hijjah. If not, Dhul Hijjah will start on June 8. Here’s how the holiday schedule will unfold based on these two scenarios:
- If the Moon is Spotted on June 6:
- Dhul Hijjah begins on June 7.
- Arafah Day will be on June 15 (Dhul Hijjah 9).
- Eid Al Adha will be on June 16 (Dhul Hijjah 10).
- The holiday will last from Saturday, June 15, to Tuesday, June 18, giving residents two weekdays off along with the weekend.
- If the Moon is Not Spotted on June 6:
- Dhul Hijjah begins on June 8.
- Arafah Day will be on June 16 (Dhul Hijjah 9).
- Eid Al Adha will be on June 17 (Dhul Hijjah 10).
- The holiday will span from Sunday, June 16, to Wednesday, June 19. Including the weekend (Saturday, June 15), residents will enjoy a five-day break.
Likely Dates
Astronomical calculations suggest that the moon is unlikely to be spotted on June 6. UAE residents can expect a five-day break for Eid Al Adha if this is the case.
Travel Plans and Tips
As schools will reopen briefly before closing again for the summer break, many residents plan to combine the Eid break with the school holidays for a longer vacation.
Travelers are seeking both short getaways and extended journeys, favoring destinations with affordable and easy visa requirements. However, airfares are on the rise due to increased demand. Online travel agency Musafir and travel app Wego have reported significant increases in airfares to some destinations, with Wego noting up to a 64% hike.
For those looking to get the best travel deals, travel website Skyscanner advises residents to consider dates in August rather than the start of the Eid break or summer holidays.
News Source: Khaleej Times
