Isra Wal Mi’raj will fall on Thursday, March 11 this year… 

Isra Wal Mi’raj in English translates to the Night Journey & Ascension is a day observed on the 27th day of the month of Rajab – the seventh month of the Islamic calendar.

This event marks the night that Allah (God) took Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) on a two-part journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and then to heaven and the journey is packed with many wonders and miracles. His journey is remembered and commemorated on Isra and Mi’raj.

This year, Isra Wal Mi’raj will fall on Thursday, March 11, 2021.

However, it looks like it will not be a long weekend for UAE residents as Isra Wal Mi’raj is not included in the list of public holidays that was announced for 2021. We will let you know however if an official last-minute announcement announcing a public holiday is released.

A list of public holidays was announced for 2021 and 2022 under the direction of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and Vice President of the UAE back in December 2020

So, when is the next holiday then?

Eid Al Fitr

The end of Ramadan is marked by a multi-day celebration in the UAE, including a holiday for the public and private sectors. In 2021, it is expected to fall from May 11 to May 15.

Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha

Arafat Day will fall on July 19, 2021, and Eid Al Adha will fall on July 20. As these dates are subject to the moon sighting, there is room to move here, but we may be in line for a holiday from Monday 19 to Thursday 22, creating a massive six-day break for those who generally have Friday and Saturday off.

Hijri New Year

Still tentative at this stage, but the Islamic New Year, or Hijri New Year, is expected to fall on Tuesday August 10, 2021. If confirmed, that will mean a midweek break.

Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday

In 2021, October 21 will mark the birthday of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH).

Commemoration Day and National Day

We’ve just come off the back of a five-day break here in the UAE, and next year we can expect a lengthy break for Commemoration Day and National Day once again. Next year, the holidays are expected to fall on Wednesday December 1, Thursday 2, and Friday 3, creating a four-day break for those who normally work Sunday to Thursday.

* Please note, these dates are subject to change and confirmation will be made by the respective UAE authorities

Image: Getty Images