A mosque in Dubai. ARCHIVE

The UAE’s moon-sighting committee has officially announced that Eid Al Fitr will begin on Sunday, March 30. The announcement came after the crescent moon of Shawwal was sighted on Saturday evening, March 29. With this announcement, Saturday, March 29, will be the final day of Ramadan, followed by a public holiday from Sunday, March 30, to Tuesday, April 1. This grants UAE residents a four-day weekend, aligning with the country’s public holiday regulations for Eid Al Fitr.

Public holiday details

Under UAE labor laws, Eid Al Fitr is typically observed as a three-day break if Ramadan lasts 29 days. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation had previously indicated that if Ramadan extended to 30 days, the holiday would continue until Wednesday, April 2. With this year's Ramadan concluding in 29 days, the public sector and private sector employees will have a three-day paid holiday from March 30 to April 1. This extended weekend offers a chance for residents to travel, celebrate with family, and participate in Eid festivities. Eid Al Fitr, meaning the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is one of the most significant Islamic celebrations. It marks the end of a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and reflection. The holiday is traditionally observed with morning prayers, family gatherings, charitable donations (Zakat Al Fitr), and the exchange of gifts. The UAE government urges residents to celebrate responsibly and extend kindness and generosity during this festive time.
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