What holidays are worth spending in the UAE and why: useful tips

The UAE is a country that combines a rich cultural heritage and modern achievements.

Understanding the festive calendar of this country is important not only for successful navigation of social interactions and personal plans, but also for awareness of the cultural values that shape Emirati society. In 2024, the UAE will celebrate many holidays, each of which has its own traditions and peculiarities.

Time zones in the UAE

The UAE is located in several time zones. Most of the country uses Gulf Standard Time, which is 4 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time. However, in some regions, such as Sharjah and Dubai, UAE standard time is used, which is an hour behind GST. Keep in mind the differences in time zones when coordinating events or traveling in the UAE.

A celebration of gratitude and renewal

Eid al-Fitr, which translates as «The Feast of Thanksgiving,» marks the joyful culmination of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar dedicated to fasting, prayer and spiritual reflection. Eid holidays usually last three days and include a number of cherished traditions and customs that unite communities in celebration.

The day begins with special collective prayers, which are often held in mosques or in specially designated open-air areas. Muslims dressed in their best outfits gather to offer prayers of gratitude, celebrating the successful completion of Ramadan and asking for blessings for the future. Holiday prayer is a time to reflect on the spiritual growth achieved during Ramadan and to strengthen ties within the community.

The spirit of charity permeates Eid al-Fitr, when many Muslims fulfill the obligation of Zakat al-Fitr, a charitable donation offered to those in need before the festive prayer. This practice emphasizes compassion, social responsibility, and the importance of supporting the less fortunate, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the joy of Id.