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Flag of United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates
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Mariia Savoskula / shutterstock.com

Holidays & Observances in The United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is a country on the Southeast Arabian Peninsula. Due to thriving oil and tourism markets, it is one of the richest countries in the world, and status is important to the Emirate people. Islam is the most common religion, and laws are made with Islamic laws in mind. Though the UAE allows freedom of religion and people of other religions to openly practice, non-Muslims are still required to follow Islamic laws. For instance, a non-Muslim could get in trouble for kissing in public or eating in public during Ramadan. There are very few national holidays in the UAE. Islamic holidays and festivals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which encourage tourism, are important celebrations.

 

Country Observances

Holiday Date Country Holiday Observance Type Religion/Belief
Laylat Al-Qadr Religious/Beliefs Islam / Muslim
Eid al-Fitr Religious/Beliefs Islam / Muslim
Eid al-Adha Religious/Beliefs Islam / Muslim
National Day United Arab Emirates Public
New Years Eve Popular
New Year's Day Popular
Isra and Mi’raj Religious/Beliefs Islam / Muslim
Ramadan Begins Religious/Beliefs Islam / Muslim
International Women's Day Popular
Laylat Al-Qadr Religious/Beliefs Islam / Muslim