Eid al-Adha in the United Arab Emirates
In the United Arab Emirates, Eid al-Adha is a three-day public holiday that follows Arafah Day and is listed for both the public and private sectors. Its timing follows the Hijri lunar calendar, so official dates depend on moon sighting.[1]
Meaning and timing
Eid al-Adha, also called the Feast of the Sacrifice, is connected with the Hajj pilgrimage and the religious practice of sacrifice. In Dubai, the official tourism guide describes sharing food with family and friends as part of Eid celebrations.[4]
The UAE government lists Arafah Day on 9 Dhu al-Hijjah and Eid al-Adha from 10 to 12 Dhu al-Hijjah. The Islamic calendar dates are determined according to moon sighting, so check official announcements when planning around the holiday.[1]
A public holiday across the UAE
The Cabinet resolution sets Eid al-Adha as a public holiday and says Eid holidays cannot be transferred to another day. It also says a public holiday cannot be transferred when it coincides with another public holiday or falls on a weekend; the UAE government’s holiday page repeats this rule.[1][2]
For private-sector workers covered by the federal labour law, official public holidays are days off with full pay. If work conditions require an employee to work on a public holiday, the employer must provide another day off or pay the normal wage for that day plus an increase of at least 50 per cent of basic wage.[3]
Family celebrations and food
The Dubai tourism guide describes Eid as a time for family and friends to share food. It identifies ouzi, made with slow-cooked lamb or goat and rice, and chicken machboos among dishes associated with Eid in the UAE; customs and menus vary among households.[4]
Some families arrange a sacrifice as part of their observance. In Dubai, the municipality operates official abattoirs and encourages residents to use approved booking services. Its Eid service information describes veterinary inspections before and after slaughter, trained butchers and meat-safety measures.[5]
Practical arrangements
Check with the relevant organisation or operator before travelling or arranging appointments during the holiday.[1]
Dubai’s abattoir arrangements are emirate-specific: the municipality lists four facilities and approved smart applications for arranging sacrificial services. Residents elsewhere should check the relevant local authority for its services and requirements.[5]
Frequently asked questions
Is Eid al-Adha a public holiday in the UAE?
Yes. The UAE government lists Arafah Day and Eid al-Adha as public holidays applicable to both public and private sectors.[1]
How long is the Eid al-Adha holiday?
The official listing gives three days for Eid al-Adha, from 10 to 12 Dhu al-Hijjah, preceded by the separate public holiday of Arafah Day on 9 Dhu al-Hijjah.[1]
Can the Eid holiday be moved if it falls on a weekend?
Do private-sector employees receive paid leave?
The federal labour law provides full-pay leave on official public holidays. If work is required, the employer must provide a replacement day off or the specified additional pay.[3]
Where can I arrange an animal sacrifice in Dubai?
Dubai Municipality advises using its official abattoirs and approved smart services. Check the municipality’s current service information for available arrangements.[5]
Sources and references
Sources used for Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) in United Arab Emirates:
- Public holidays- The Official Platform of the UAE Government
- Cabinet Resolution No. (27) of 2024- UAE Legislation
- Federal Decree-Law Regarding the Regulation of Employment Relationship- Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation
- Celebrating Eid in Dubai- Visit Dubai
- Campaign launched to enhance Eid Al-Adha abattoir services- Dubai Municipality