Arafat Day official date confirmed: Here's when Dubai will get a day off work
A public holiday? There's nothing Dubai residents love more.
And we're all set for an extra-long weekend in June as Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha arrive.
Arafat Day comes the day before Eid Al Adha and is a public holiday in its own right.
When is Arafat Day 2025?
This year, Arafat Day has been confirmed for Thursday June 5, following an announcement by the UAE's moon sighting committee.
Ahead of the extended break, it's important to know what the occasion means and why Dubai and the rest of the UAE get the day off for it every year.
What is Arafat Day?
Arafat Day, also known as the Day of Arafah, holds great significance for Muslims around the world. It falls on the ninth day of the Islamic month of Dhu Al Hijjah roughly 70 days after the end of Ramadan and just one day before the festival of Eid Al Adha.
Arafat Day commemorates a key event in the Islamic pilgrimage of Hajj and marks a day of spiritual reflection, unity, and supplication.
Arafat is the name of a mountain located near the city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It was on this day that the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) delivered his farewell sermon to a gathering of over 100,000 Muslims during his final pilgrimage.
What do Muslims do on Arafat Day?
Every year, millions of Muslims from different corners of the globe embark on the Hajj pilgrimage, with Arafat Day being the height of their journey. Pilgrims gather near Mount Arafat, wearing simple white garments to engage in prayer and contemplation.
It is believed that every prayer offered on Arafat Day is answered and carries immense weight.
While Arafat Day is primarily a religious observance, its underlying values hold relevance beyond the Muslim community. These principles include compassion, forgiveness, and equality.
Why do we have Arafat Day off?
Typically, Muslims all around the world, who are not in Mecca doing the pilgrimage, will fast on Arafat Day. It is not mandatory, but it is preferred.
Muslims believe that fasting on this day holds great rewards and blessings. It is believed that observing the fast allows you to reflect, seek forgiveness and renew your spiritual connection.
Public holidays Dubai
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