What Is Day Of Arafat And Why Do We Get Time Off?

No matter where you live, we all love to enjoy holidays!

And if you live in Dubai, a six-day break is coming up this month. it’s important to understand exactly what these holidays mean to the people who celebrate them.

We are most likely looking forward to four days off work from Tuesday June 27 to Friday June 30, depending on Moon sightings. This long weekend is due to Arafat Day and Eid al Adha.

So, What Exactly Is Arafat Day?

Arafat Day, also known as the Day of Arafah, holds great significance for Muslims around the world. It falls on the ninth day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah roughly 70 days after the end of Ramadan and just one day before the festival of Eid al Adha.

Arafat Day commemorates a key event in the Islamic pilgrimage of Hajj and marks a day of spiritual reflection, unity, and supplication.

Arafat is the name of a mountain located near the city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It was on this day that the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) delivered his farewell sermon to a gathering of over 100,000 Muslims during his final pilgrimage.

What Do Muslims Do On Arafat Day?

Every year, millions of Muslims from different corners of the globe embark on the Hajj pilgrimage, with Arafat Day being the height of their journey. Pilgrims gather near Mount Arafat, wearing simple white garments to engage in prayer and contemplation.

It is believed that every prayer offered on Arafat Day are answered and carry immense weight.

While Arafat Day is primarily a religious observance, its underlying values hold relevance beyond the Muslim community. These principles include compassion, forgiveness, and equality.

Why Do We Have The Day Off?

Typically, Muslims all around the world, who are not in Mecca doing the pilgrimage, will fast on Arafat Day. It is not mandatory, but it is preferred.

Muslims believe that fasting on this day holds great rewards and blessings. It is believed that observing the fast allows you to reflect, seek forgiveness and renew your spiritual connection.