UAE Announces 5-Day Eid Al Adha Holiday For Public Sector Staff

The UAE has officially announced the Eid Al Adha holidays for government employees, and honestly, a lot of people are already mentally checking out of work calendars. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources confirmed that public sector staff will get a paid break from Monday, May 25, until Friday, May 29. Offices to restart June 1.

UAE Public Sector Employees To Get A 5-Day Eid Al Adha Break

So yes, for many workers, it’s shaping up to be one of those rare weeks where emails can wait a little longer. But the holiday conversation is not just about government offices this time. Schools, moon sightings, and possible travel plans are all being tied to the same week, too.

The Moon Sighting Will Decide The Final Dates

Before Eid officially begins, attention will turn to the skies on May 17.

Authorities in Dubai are organising a public moon-sighting gathering at Jebel Nazwa Trail to observe the Dhu Al Hijjah crescent. The event starts around 5 pm and continues after sunset until the observation is completed.

For many families, this tradition still matters a lot, even with all the astronomical calculations already floating around online.

That said, astronomy experts are expecting the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah to fall on Monday, May 18.

Based on those calculations, the Day of Arafah is likely to happen on Tuesday, May 26, while Eid Al Adha would begin on Wednesday, May 27.

Still, the official confirmation only comes after the moon is actually sighted.

Students Might Be Happier Than Office Workers

The holiday news has also landed well with students across the country.

The Ministry of Education announced that the third-term midterm break will run during the Eid period from May 25 to 29 for students, teachers and school staff.

Because the dates connect directly with weekends, many students are expected to end up with around nine days off in total.

Also Read: Dubai Opens Smart Qurbani Bookings As Eid Al Adha Rush Begins

Private Schools Across the UAE Are Following Similar Dates

Private schools in Dubai will also pause classes during the same period under the unified academic calendar. Lessons resume on June 1.

Meanwhile, schools in Sharjah are getting a slightly longer stretch. The Sharjah Private Education Authority confirmed holidays from May 25 to 28, with schools reopening on June 1 after the weekend. That effectively gives many Sharjah students a 10-day break.

So while adults are counting leave days and flight prices, students are mostly counting how long they can sleep in without alarms.

Cover Image Courtesy: Visit Dubai/Website

For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.