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    When is Eid Al-Adha? A 5-day weekend possibility in the UAE

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    4 hours ago

    Are you back in the office and already feeling the holiday blues? Don’t worry, Eid al-Adha break in the UAE is just around the corner.
    As anticipation builds for the upcoming Eid Al Adha celebrations in the UAE, residents can start planning for a potential extended weekend filled with festivities and relaxation.

    This year, Eid Al Adha is expected to take place in less than two months’ time, offering both the public and private sectors a well-deserved break.
    The holiday begins with Arafat Day, which marks the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage. Falling on the ninth day of the Islamic month of Dhuʻl-Hijjah, Arafat Day holds great significance for pilgrims visiting Mecca, who gather in Arafat to engage in prayers and reflection.
    While the specific date for Arafat Day is subject to confirmation by a moon sighting committee, it is anticipated to occur around Saturday, June 15, or Sunday, June 16.
    Following Arafat Day, Muslims around the world observe Eid Al Adha.  This joyous occasion, occurring on the 10th day of Dhuʻl-Hijjah, is marked by communal prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. Families and friends come together to share meals and celebrate, while also extending kindness to those in need.
    In 2024, Eid Al Adha is projected to commence on the evening of Sunday, June 16, or Monday, June 17, depending on the sighting of the moon. The celebration traditionally lasts for three days, providing ample time for individuals to engage in religious observances and spend quality time with loved ones.
    For employees in the UAE, the holiday brings the possibility of an extended weekend. If Arafat Day falls on June 15, a Saturday, residents may enjoy a four-day break, with the subsequent three days likely designated as holidays. Alternatively, if Arafat Day occurs on June 16, a Sunday, Eid Al Adha will commence on Monday, June 17, followed by two additional holidays on Tuesday, June 18, and Wednesday, June 19, granting residents a rare five-day weekend to unwind and celebrate.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Feature Image: Instagram @sarashakeel More

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    8 special Eid al-Fitr lunch & brunch menus to enjoy in Dubai

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    4 hours ago

    Eid al-Fitr, the joyous occasion marking the end of Ramadan, is a time for celebration, reflection, and togetherness.
    As families and friends come together to mark the end of the fasting month, what better way to celebrate than by indulging in delectable culinary experiences across Dubai’s vibrant dining scene?
    For expats away from their homes, these restaurants offer a taste of home and a chance to partake in the festivities with loved ones.
    Whether you’re craving Italian delicacies, Mediterranean flavors, or Japanese-inspired dishes, Dubai’s diverse dining scene has something for everyone to enjoy this festive season.
    8 exquisite dining spots to visit for Eid al-Fitr:

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Public sector Eid holidays announced: Will the private sector also get a 9-day break?

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    As anticipation builds for the joyous occasion of Eid Al Fitr, UAE residents eagerly await the official holiday dates to solidify their break plans.
    In a recent announcement by the UAE cabinet, the public sector is set to enjoy an extensive break, spanning from Monday, April 8th to April 14th, 2024. With work resuming on Monday, April 15th, government employees are poised for a refreshing nine-day hiatus.

    UAE Cabinet has mandated one-week Eid Al Fitr holiday for federal government#WamNews pic.twitter.com/Jg7arNaNxC
    — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) March 31, 2024

    However, the burning question on everyone’s mind is the status of Eid Al Fitr holidays for the private sector. While the public sector revels in the forthcoming extended weekend, private sector workers remain in suspense, eagerly awaiting confirmation of their holiday dates.
    Eid Al Fitr, also known as the ‘Festival of Breaking the Fast,’ holds significant cultural and religious importance for Muslims worldwide. It marks the conclusion of Ramadan, a month characterized by fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. As one of the five pillars of Islam, fasting during Ramadan holds profound significance for adherents of the faith, serving as a time for purification, repentance, and strengthening of one’s connection with God.
    Will private sector employees be granted a comparable respite to their public sector counterparts? Stay tuned for further updates and prepare to unlock the mysteries of Eid Al Fitr 2024.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Instagram @visitabudhabi and @futurebedouin More

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    Saudi Arabia reveals Eid Al Fitr 2024 holiday dates

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    As the holy month of Ramadan will soon come to an end, anticipation builds across the Gulf region for the upcoming Eid Al Fitr celebrations.
    Saudi Arabia has already set its public holiday dates, granting workers a generous six-day break from Monday, April 8, to Thursday, April 11, inclusive of the weekend. This early announcement has left many in the UAE wondering whether their own public holiday dates will align with those of their neighbour.

    ️ || موعد إجازة #عيد_الفطر_المبارك للقطاعين الخاص وغير الربحي.
    وكل عام وأنتم بخير. pic.twitter.com/GUmajTiSL7
    — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتنمية الاجتماعية (@HRSD_SA) March 23, 2024

    Traditionally, the UAE and Saudi Arabia synchronize their Islamic public holiday dates due to the similarity in moon sightings, which dictate the start and end of Ramadan and subsequently Eid Al Fitr. However, with Saudi Arabia announcing its holiday dates approximately two weeks ahead of previous years, speculation arises about whether the UAE will follow suit.
    According to estimations from UAE astronomers, Eid Al Fitr is projected to commence on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, with the preceding day, Tuesday, April 9, likely being declared a public holiday as well. This forecast sets the stage for a six-day holiday for residents across the UAE, both in the public and private sectors.
    Yet, the recent announcement from Saudi Arabia introduces a potential shift in the UAE’s holiday schedule. While alignment between the two nations is common, the UAE government has yet to issue an official statement confirming the Eid Al Fitr public holiday dates. Until such an announcement is made, uncertainty lingers over whether UAE residents will indeed enjoy an extended break.
    Despite the ambiguity surrounding holiday dates, anticipation for Eid Al Fitr festivities remains high. Families and communities eagerly await the opportunity to come together in celebration, marking the conclusion of a month-long period of fasting and reflection.
    Whether it’s travelling abroad or enjoying festivities closer to home, preparations for Eid Al Fitr are underway across the UAE. While the exact holiday dates may be uncertain, the spirit of unity and joy that accompanies this auspicious occasion prevails, promising memorable moments for all.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @futurebedouin  More

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    Eid al-Fitr 2024 to fall on April 10: UAE residents can expect a 9-day weekend

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    As the global Islamic community eagerly awaits the conclusion of Ramadan, anticipation mounts in the UAE for the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Fitr.
    Set to potentially commence on April 10, 2024, this sacred holiday signifies not only the end of a month-long period of fasting and spiritual devotion but also serves as a time of joyous celebration and communal unity.

    An Islamic consensus is expected on the first day of #Shawwal and #Eid_al_Fitr. #UAE_BARQ_EN pic.twitter.com/Nf1rS4ISlh
    — UAE BARQ (@UAE_BARQ_EN) March 17, 2024

    Guided by the insights of esteemed scholars and astronomical experts, calculations suggest that the Shawwal crescent may grace the skies on the evening of April 9, ushering in the beginning of Eid Al Fitr.
    Anticipating the potential commencement of Eid al-Fitr on April 10, UAE residents can look forward to a well-deserved five-day holiday.
    Commencing on Ramadan 29, the Eid break extends until Shawwal 3, encompassing a period of rest and reflection for individuals and families alike. As anticipation builds for the official announcement of holiday start dates and timings, the UAE prepares to embrace the spirit of Eid with open hearts and renewed devotion.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @futurebedouin More

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    Eid al-Fitr 2024 to fall on April 10: Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society predicts

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    As the global Islamic community eagerly awaits the conclusion of Ramadan, anticipation mounts in the UAE for the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Fitr.
    Set to potentially commence on April 10, 2024, this sacred holiday signifies not only the end of a month-long period of fasting and spiritual devotion but also serves as a time of joyous celebration and communal unity.

    An Islamic consensus is expected on the first day of #Shawwal and #Eid_al_Fitr. #UAE_BARQ_EN pic.twitter.com/Nf1rS4ISlh
    — UAE BARQ (@UAE_BARQ_EN) March 17, 2024

    Guided by the insights of esteemed scholars and astronomical experts, calculations suggest that the Shawwal crescent may grace the skies on the evening of April 9, ushering in the beginning of Eid Al Fitr.
    Anticipating the potential commencement of Eid al-Fitr on April 10, UAE residents can look forward to a well-deserved five-day holiday.
    Commencing on Ramadan 29, the Eid break extends until Shawwal 3, encompassing a period of rest and reflection for individuals and families alike. As anticipation builds for the official announcement of holiday start dates and timings, the UAE prepares to embrace the spirit of Eid with open hearts and renewed devotion.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @futurebedouin More

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    Discover the perfect blend of luxury and authenticity in this Sri Lankan coastal paradise

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    2 hours ago

    In a sea of luxury holiday escapes, this award-winning hotel resort in Sri Lanka stands as a beacon of quiet luxury: Cape Weligama.
    A part of the Resplendent collection of boutique hotels in Sri Lanka (Ceylon Tea Trails, Kayaam House, and Wild Coast Tented Lodge are its sister properties) and a member of the Relais & Chateaux association known with a roster of unique hotels across the world, a discerning traveller can only expect unmatched hospitality and an authentic stay.
    Your journey begins once you take a 4-hour flight from Dubai to Colombo and from there, another 2-hour drive to the south coast of Sri Lanka where a serene tropical paradise awaits.
    THE STAY
    Picture this: a cascading series of private villas and suites nestled along the picturesque southern coast of Sri Lanka named after the most celebrated nautical journeys like Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta. Pus, an award-winning infinity pool that boasts of Weligama’s stunning vast Indian Ocean views – with the frequent sightings of the resident peacock and squirrels. It doesn’t get as picturesque as that.

    This palm-fringed cliffside 5-hectare expanse seamlessly fuses traditional Sri Lankan aesthetics with contemporary touches throughout the property. Each colonial-style villa and suite offer its own unique charm and comforts including an assigned butler, ensuring to craft a tailored stay for guests. The intricately carved woodwork and furnishings speaks of luxury and refinement while colourful tapestry adds a local touch to the decor. Beyond its aesthetics, Cape Weligama is a sanctuary of solitude, tucked aways amidst lush tropical landscapes, offering a sense of exclusivity and privacy that elevates the experience.

    THE DINING
    Surely, another highlight of your stay at Cape Weligama is the culinary experience.

    From a selection of sumptuous Sri Lankan delicacies and freshly-caught seafood served at Ocean Terrace, a relaxing traditional Ceylon high tea and sundowners at Surf Bar, to relishing in a gourmet feast at the Lookout Blue, private cliff-top with scenic sunset view – each dining experience is a true delight for the senses.

    THE WELLNESS
    For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort’s spa offers a range of indulgent treatments designed to soothe the mind, body and soul for unparalleled bliss. Wellness warriors can also enjoy a guided group yoga session in the morning, with a panoramic ocean view of course.
    THE HERO EXPERIENCES
    When you have such swoon-worthy scenery, a crescent-shaped infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and excellent cuisine, languid days easily go by lounging and leaving the grounds might become a struggle.

    Thankfully with Weligama’s charm and proximity to neighboring towns, one can be easily swayed to step foot outside. Despite Cape Weligama’s secluded setting, you’re not too isolated from exhilarating leisure and once-in-a-lifetime adventure opportunities, that you can book directly through your butler or at the concierge. Spend a day venturing out into the sea on catamaran-style yachts for a whale-watching excursion and another to explore what Weligama’s neighboring towns of Ahangama, Midigama and the World Heritage List town of Galle, have to offer (think: surfing lessons, ancient temples, forts and vibrant markets, and more).

    WHAT TO PACK
    A mix of casual outfits and dressier separates in earty tones and vibrant vacation-ready exotic prints can see you through your entire holiday whether you’re pool lounging or pursuing an outdoor activity. For the wanderers and sunseekers, bring the necessary beauty essentials including sunscreen, bronzing oils, and insect repellent sprays are a must.
    Swipe through the gallery below for stylish, editor-approved vacation essentials:

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More