Employees in the UAE can enjoy an extended weekend after it was confirmed that Eid Al Fitr will begin on Sunday.
The country's Moon-sighting committee – a group of astronomers, court officials and advisers from the Emirates' Islamic authority – gathered on Saturday night to try to see the new crescent moon heralding the start of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar.
The sighting was confirmed, meaning that Eid will begin on Sunday, March 30, marking the end of Ramadan. The UAE government said public sector staff would be given paid leave for the first three days of Shawwal.
Private sector workers will also enjoy a long weekend in celebration, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation announced. The ministry confirmed employees will be given paid leave from Sunday, March 30, until Tuesday, April 1, for the festival.
Federal government and private sector workers are typically given the same number of public holidays each year.
What is Eid Al Fitr?
Eid Al Fitr signifies the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the month of Shawwal. It is a celebratory occasion marked by morning prayers, family get-togethers and the giving of gifts, as well as charitable donations. A public holiday accompanies Eid Al Fitr, with many people taking time off work to travel abroad or take short trips in the region.
Muslims around the world prepare for Eid
