Arafat Day in Bahrain

The day and its Hajj meaning

Arafat Day follows the Islamic lunar calendar, so its date shifts in the Gregorian calendar. Bahrain’s National Portal lists it as 9 Dhu al-Hijjah and notes that Islamic holiday dates are subject to confirmation.[1]

For pilgrims, the day is centered on standing at Arafat, a main pillar of Hajj. Pilgrims gather there for prayer and remain until sunset; the rite is performed outside the boundaries of the sacred area around Mecca.[4]

Bahrain’s public holiday arrangements

Bahrain’s Prime Minister has issued holiday circulars that close ministries and public institutions on Arafah and during Eid al-Adha. Those announcements set the closure dates for each occasion, so check the current official notice for the exact schedule.[2]

For government entities, the applicable rules provide an extra day when an official holiday falls on Friday or Saturday. The arrangement is a substitute day added to the holiday period.[5]

Private-sector leave is different

The 2013 decision on paid holidays for private-sector workers lists Eid al-Adha on 10, 11 and 12 Dhu al-Hijjah. It does not list 9 Dhu al-Hijjah, Arafat Day, as a separate paid holiday. The decision provides another day when one of its listed holidays falls on Friday or an official holiday.[3]

Because the official public-sector announcement and the private-sector list cover different arrangements, private-sector employees should check their employer’s holiday notice or applicable workplace terms before assuming they have the day off.[2][3]

Planning around the holiday

Government offices covered by the official closure circular will be closed on the announced holiday dates. Check opening times and service schedules with banks, shops and transport providers before you go.[2]