ABU DHABI: Lakhs of Indian expatriates, including a significant number of Malayalis, work in both public and private sectors across the UAE. For many expats, a much-anticipated aspect of their life abroad is the opportunity to return home and reunite with family during holidays. In welcome news for the expatriate community, a public holiday has been announced in the UAE on the occasion of Prophet’s Day.

According to a circular issued by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, Sunday, September 15, will be a paid public holiday for employees in the public sector. While the private sector is also expected to observe a holiday on the same day, an official order is yet to be released.

Prophet’s Day, or Mawlid al-Nabi, is observed in Islamic countries, including the Gulf nations, on the 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar. This year, the holiday coincides with Thiruvonam, the major festival celebrated by Malayalis, falling on September 15. This overlap creates the possibility of an extended two-day celebration for many.

Following Prophet’s Day, UAE residents can look forward to a longer holiday break in December, as National Day will be observed on Monday, December 2, and Tuesday, December 3. With the weekend preceding it (Saturday and Sunday), this provides a four-day holiday for those in the UAE.