As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims across the UAE are gearing up to celebrate Eid Al Fitr. This joyous occasion not only marks the end of fasting but also brings with it the longest holiday of the year, contingent upon the sighting of the Moon for private sector employees.

Insights from Astronomy Experts

Leading figures in astronomy, Mohammad Shawkat Odeh from the International Astronomy Centre in Abu Dhabi and Khadijah Ahmad, Operations Manager at the Dubai Astronomy Group, have shared their predictions with Khaleej Times regarding the likely date of Eid Al Fitr based on astronomical calculations. Understanding these dates and the potential holiday duration can help you plan your vacation or staycation effectively.

Understanding the Lunar Calendar

In the Islamic Hijri calendar, each month spans either 29 or 30 days. The transition from one month to the next is determined by the sighting of the crescent Moon. Muslims traditionally search for the crescent on the 29th day of each month.

Anticipated Holiday Schedule

The UAE's Moon sighting committee is scheduled to meet on the evening of Monday, April 8, to observe the night sky for the crescent Moon. If the Moon is sighted, Ramadan will conclude at 29 days, with Eid Al Fitr falling on Tuesday, April 9. In case the crescent is not sighted, Ramadan will last for 30 days, and Eid Al Fitr will be on April 10.

Holiday Dates and Duration

Regardless of the Moon sighting, the holiday period commences on Monday, April 8 (Ramadan 29), for all residents in the UAE. Eid Al Fitr will either be celebrated on April 9 or 10, depending on the lunar observation.

For public sector employees, the holiday spans the entire next week, coupled with weekends, resulting in a nine-day break. Private sector workers will also enjoy a potential nine-day break, encompassing weekends, if Eid falls on April 10. However, if Eid is observed on April 9, private sector employees will resume work on Friday, April 12, following a six-day break.

Astronomical Predictions

Khadijah Ahmad suggests that the crescent is unlikely to be sighted on Monday. Mohammad Shawkat Odeh concurs, indicating that Ramadan will extend to the full 30 days, with Eid Al Fitr slated for Wednesday, April 10, offering residents a nine-day holiday period from Saturday, April 6, to Sunday, April 14.

Final Announcement

The official announcement regarding the Eid Al Fitr date will be made by the government on Monday, April 8.