Youman Nabi in Guyana
Youman Nabi is a Muslim observance commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad. Guyana’s Public Holidays Act names Youman Nabi Day as a public holiday, giving it a formal place in the country’s calendar alongside religious holidays from other traditions.[1][2]
Meaning and place in Guyana
Guyana’s General Register Office describes Youman Nabi, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, as an occasion in the Islamic calendar commemorating Prophet Muhammad’s birth. It connects the observance with reflection on his life and teachings, including compassion, peace, unity and devotion to God.[2]
The General Register Office’s greeting addresses Muslim communities in Guyana and around the world, while also referring to the country’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious heritage. This gives the day both a religious meaning for Muslims and a place in Guyana’s public recognition of religious diversity.[2]
Public holiday status and dates
The Public Holidays Act defines a public holiday as a day kept as a holiday by banks, educational establishments, public offices and government departments, subject to exceptions made under the Act. It lists Youman Nabi Day among the public holidays and requires the Minister responsible for public holidays to arrange for notice of its date to be published in the Gazette each year.[1]
The Act provides that when Youman Nabi falls on a Sunday, the following day is the public holiday. The Gregorian date changes from year to year because the observance follows the Islamic calendar; check the official notice for the applicable date.[1][2]
What to expect on the day
The legal definition means banks, educational establishments, public offices and government departments keep the public holiday, although the Act allows the Minister to exclude a public office or department in whole or in part. The Act also preserves the operation of the Shops Act, so its public-holiday provisions do not establish that all shops close.[1]
For practical plans, check directly with the place or service you intend to use. The Act does not set transport schedules.[1]
Youman Nabi in Guyana: FAQs
Is Youman Nabi a public holiday in Guyana?
Yes. The Public Holidays Act lists Youman Nabi Day as a public holiday.[1]
Who gets the day off?
The Act defines a public holiday as a day kept by banks, educational establishments, public offices and government departments. It allows the Minister to exclude a public office or department in whole or in part.[1]
When is Youman Nabi observed?
Are shops and public transport closed?
The Act preserves the operation of the Shops Act, so it does not establish that all shops close. Check with individual businesses and transport providers for their holiday hours or schedules.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Youman Nabi in Guyana:
- LAWS OF GUYANA — PUBLIC HOLIDAYS ACT — CHAPTER 19:07- Ministry of Legal Affairs, Guyana
- Youman Nabi Greetings from the General Register Office of Guyana- Guyana General Register Office