Arafat Day is a significant holiday observed in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is named after the Mountain of Arafat, where Muhammad is said to have delivered his last sermon. This religious holiday is considered to be the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage and the day before Eid al-Adha. This day allows Muslims to reflect on their own lives and the broader Muslim community.
Arafat Day was designated as a public holiday in the UAE to honor the Islamic tradition of pilgrimage. On this day, Muslims from all over the world gather at the foot of Mount Arafat to seek mercy and forgiveness from Allah. The holiday takes place on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, and pilgrims spend the day in prayer, seeking forgiveness and making supplications.
Though Arafat Day mostly involves personal prayers and reflection, it also extends into public life in the UAE. As a federal public holiday, government offices, schools, and many businesses are closed. Residents are encouraged to offer prayers and participate in activities related to Hajj, even if they are not able to make the pilgrimage to Mecca themselves. The day ends with a sighting of the moon, which then ushers in the festival of Eid Al Adha.