Is Dubai your holiday destination of choice this year? Then, it would be great to be aware of the public holidays in Dubai in advance. The benefit is that you canschedule your visit and avoid days when heavy tourist traffic is expected at sites because of public holidays. Residents of Dubai can plan quick getaways from the city. Residents eager to travel abroad can expedite their visa processing and prevent non-working days and delays. Whether you live in Dubai or are just planning a trip there, staying informed about public holidays in Dubai will be quite beneficial.
Government buildings, institutions, and commercial establishments are closed on public holidays. During these holidays, family and friends celebrate social harmony that fosters unity and work-life balance.
The UAE has recently changed its weekend from Friday and Saturday to Saturday and Sunday. If any public holiday falls on a weekend, then the next working day is given as a holiday to employees. This means that in 2024, you will get to enjoy many long weekends.
Here is a list of Dubai Public Holidays for the year 2024.
1. New Year's Day: January 1, 2024, Monday
The New Year marks the first day of the Gregorian calendar. The year begins with a joyous New Year’s Day celebration, a global event marked by celebrations, fireworks, and a feeling of renewal. In Dubai, the night skies come alive with stunning displays at landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, creating an unforgettable experience for residents and tourists alike.
Eid Al Fitr (End of Ramadan): April 8 to 11, 2024, Monday to Thursday
Eid al Fitr is celebrated to mark the end of Ramadan (breaking the fast). It is a joyous occasion that follows the holy month of Ramadan. This holiday is celebrated according to the Islamic Hijri Calendar, from 29 Ramadan to 3 Shawwal 1443. Families come together for festive meals, and the city is adorned with colorful decorations. Dubai’s malls and attractions host special events, creating an atmosphere that welcomes people of all backgrounds.
3. Arafat Day: June 15, 2024, Saturday
A crucial component of the Hajj journey is Arafat Day, when pilgrims assemble atop Mount Arafat to offer prayers and ask for forgiveness. Arafat Day is a day of reflection and charity, emphasizing the spirit of compassion and empathy. Costs are mostly linked to personal philanthropic contributions, the quantities of which vary depending on individual preferences.
4. Eid al Adha: June 16 to 19, 2024, Sunday to Wednesday
The holiday of sacrifice, Eid al Adha, celebrates Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to offer his son as a sacrifice in submission to God. In Dubai, the celebrations include communal prayers, feasts, and the symbolic act of sacrificing animals. The city radiates a sense of generosity and sharing, reflecting the core values of this auspicious occasion.
5. Al Hijri (Islamic New Year): - July 7, 2024, Monday
Hijri New Year’s Day, which marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time for contemplation and rebirth. The occasion promotes a new beginning and a dedication to personal development. Dubai residents may engage in spiritual activities, attend religious lectures, or spend time with family. The occasion encourages a fresh start and a commitment to personal growth.
6. Birthday of Prophet Muhammad (Mawlid al Nabi): September 15, 2024, Sunday
Mawlid al Nabi is dedicated to the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad and falls on the 12th Rabi al Awwal. The celebration of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad gives the community another opportunity to gather together in recollection and devotion. Dubai’s vibrant streets are adorned with lights and decorations, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared heritage.
7. Commemoration Day: December 1, 2024, Sunday
Commemoration Day, also known as Martyr’s Day, is dedicated to honoring the sacrifices made by the brave Emiratis who lost their lives for the nation. In Dubai, commemorative events include moments of silence, flag-raising ceremonies, and visits to memorials to express gratitude for the dedication and sacrifice of brave men and women in this country.
8. UAE National Day, December 2 and 3, 2024, Monday and Tuesday
UAE National Day is a day of togetherness and patriotism, celebrating the union of seven emirates into a whole nation. With flags, decorations, and patriotic displays, Dubai is transformed into a sea of red, green, white, and black. Spectacular fireworks illuminate the night sky, representing the nation and its citizens’ united pride.
This list of public holidays in Dubai can help you schedule your year around forthcoming occasions and extended weekends. The Hijri, Gregorian, and Western calendars are followed to determine the public holidays. According to the Western calendar, holidays are fixed dates. The Hijri calendar, known as the Islamic lunar calendar, is used to identify dates for Islamic occasions such as Ramadan and other festivals. However, these dates are tentative and are determined by last-minute moon sightings. The holy month of Ramadan is not a public holiday. It is a month-long Islamic event that the locals observe.
In addition to the public holidays, you should check the Dubai school holidays for 2024, which may coincide with your travel plans if you are looking for a relaxed, less crowded leisure trip in Dubai.
School Vacations in Dubai 2024
Spring Break:
March 25 to April 14, 2024
Summer Break:
July 3, to August 25, 2024. The first day of the 2024-25 academic year is August 26, 2024.
Winter Break for Schools:
December 16 to January 5, 2025
Half Term Break:
Midweek of October 2024
Dubai Events 2024 with Public Holidays Celebration in Dubai
Dubai is also known for its retail festivals and international events. The city hosts lavish events every year. When planning your trip to Dubai, the dates of these events should also be considered to avoid the peak travel season.
Dubai Summer Surprises 2024 and Holiday Extravaganza
Dubai offers a grand fest of hot deals, amazing discounts, exhilarating shows, exclusive competitions, and much more! From June to September, Dubai is the place to be if you want to have a merry time, go shopping and win some prizes!
Dubai Food Festival and Festive Holidays
Calling all Foodies to Dubai! Explore the eclectic culinary scene of Dubai in February from 19 to 23, 2024, and sample some amazing dishes at world-class restaurants and dining venues across the city. Popular places to visit are Jumeirah Beach, JBR, and City Walk.
Dubai Shopping Festival and Holiday Bonanza
Take part in the biggest shopping festival in the world! Dubai has turned into a mega bazaar where you can indulge in the best shopping experiences and even try your luck at winning grand prizes. Grab huge discounts on the most luxurious brands. The DSF will be held from December 8, 2023, to January 14, 2024 in Bluewaters and The Beach at JBR.
Conclusion
While many public holiday celebrations in Dubai offer free or low-cost participation, the overall expenses can vary based on individual choices and preferences. Whether embracing the spiritual significance of religious holidays or indulging in the festive spirit of national celebrations, Dubai provides a range of options to suit every budget, ensuring a memorable and inclusive experience for all. As the city grows, these holidays serve as a reminder of the importance of community, understanding, and celebration in Dubai, a rapidly growing global metropolis.
Now that you know the public holidays in Dubai, upcoming school vacations, and the main festivals, you can choose the dates for the perfect vacation to the Emirate. Plan your trip according to the seasons and the ideal time to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable trip to Dubai.