Dubai: Saudi Arabia has officially declared Wednesday, April 10, as the first day of Eid Al Fitr following the non-sighting of the crescent moon on Monday evening. This decision extends the holy month of Ramadan to a 30-day duration this year, as per the announcement by the Kingdom's authorities.
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia had previously urged the faithful across the country to look for the crescent moon on the 29th of Ramadan, corresponding to Monday, April 8, 2024, on the Gregorian calendar.
In light of this declaration, both public and private sector employees in Saudi Arabia will enjoy a four-day holiday for Eid Al Fitr, commencing from Monday, April 8 (Ramadan 29, 1445), as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. Given that Friday and Saturday are designated as the official weekend days in the Kingdom, residents will relish a prolonged six-day weekend. Normal work operations are scheduled to resume on Sunday, April 14.
UAE's Holiday Schedule
In contrast, federal employees in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are set to experience a longer nine-day break, accounting for Saturday and Sundays as their official weekends. The holiday period was initiated on Monday, April 8, with government employees indulging in festivities until Sunday, April 14. Regular work hours are slated to recommence on Monday, April 15.