Ramadan 2021 in UAE begins in 10 days; Eid holidays follow

The holy month of Ramadan begins in 10 days, most likely on Tuesday, April 13 or Wednesday, April 14, depending on the sighting of the moon.

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Fasting during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is one of the five pillars of Islam.

Muslims across the globe fast from dawn till sunset for 29 or 30 days. They refrain from all kinds of food, drink and smoking and spend large portion of their time in prayers and purifying their mind and body.

Also, Muslims believe that their holy book Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) during the holy month of Ramadan.

“The Night of Power”, known as Laylat-ul-Qadr in Arabic, also falls in this month and is believed to be the holiest night of the year.

When will Ramadan begin?

According to Islamic Finder’s calculation, the current Islamic month of Rajab will consist of 29 days followed by 30 days of Shaban, which will end on Monday, April 12. Therefore, Ramadan is expected to begin on Tuesday, April 13.

While Oman’s Mazen Al Mafraji, the Head of the Hijri Calendar Department at the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, predicted that Ramadan will begin on Wednesday, April 14.

Eid holidays

Islamic Finder’s calculation showed that Ramadan will last 30 days and the Muslims will celebrate Eid Al Fitr on Thursday, May 13. Based on these calculations, the UAE residents will have three-day weekend from Thursday, May 13, to Saturday, May 15.

Oman’s Mazen Al Mafraji also expects Eid Al Fitr will fall on Thursday, May 13.

Note: All dates are subject to moon sighting

-waheedabbas@khaleejtimes.com