Public and private sector employees, who work weekends, will have a day off to celebrate the Islamic New Year. Late on Friday, the Federal Authority for Human Resources and Emiratisation announced that Saturday, August 31, would be the start of the Islamic New Year and so any employees who work Saturday would have the day off. ''In light of the announcement of the relevant authorities in the government that Saturday is the first day of Muharram 1441 H, the Hijri new year's holiday will, therefore, be observed on Saturday," said FAHR in a statement. Work will resume as normal on Sunday, September 1, the circular said. Schools will also open as usual on Sunday with the start of the new academic year for many pupils. This month, the authority said public and private sectors would enjoy a day off on Muharram 1, Hijri 1441, but did not clarify which day that coincided with on the Gregorian Calendar. Last year, the private and public sectors were given one day off, a Thursday. Muslims do not mark Islamic New Year, also known as Al Hijri New Year, with public celebrations or events. Hotels and bars are usually asked to refrain from serving alcohol and hosting live entertainment. The Islamic New Year is the first day of the Islamic calendar, or lunar calendar. On Friday, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, wished all Muslims a happy new year filled with tolerance and brotherhood. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, also tweeted his thoughts as the new Hijri year 1441 was ushered in. He sent his congratulations and also asked God for peace and security for the country, the region and the world.