Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The UAE has declared September 5 a public holiday for federal government employees as well as private sector workers to mark the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the Federal Authority of Human Resources confirmed on Tuesday (August 26). The announcement means that both private and public sector workers will enjoy an extended three-day weekend, with the holiday falling on a Friday and followed by the regular Saturday–Sunday weekend. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) also made a similar announcement confirming a holiday for the private sector, in line with official practice. The Prophet’s birthday, also known as Mawlid Al Nabawi, is observed on the 12th of Rabi Al Awwal, which this year corresponds to September 5. The date was confirmed following the sighting of the crescent moon marking the start of the third month in the Islamic Hijri calendar. The occasion is one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar and is commemorated by Muslims worldwide through spiritual reflections, community gatherings, and cultural activities. In the UAE, it is recognized as an official public holiday under a Cabinet resolution. The next official public holiday after Prophet Muhammad’s birthday will be the UAE’s 54th National Day (Eid Al Etihad) on December 2 and 3. Since the dates fall on a Tuesday and Wednesday, and Commemoration Day is typically observed on December 1, UAE residents could potentially enjoy a four-day weekend from December 1 to 4. ICA/Expat Media
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