The photo has been used for illustrative purposes.

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has announced that the first day of Muḥarram will be on Aug.31, 2019.

FAHR released a statement. It reads, “Further to the circular issued by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources regarding the Hijri New Year’s holiday for 1441H in the Federal Government, and in light of the announcement of the relevant authorities in the Government that Saturday is the first day of Muharram 1441H; the Hijri New Year’s holiday will be observed on Saturday 31 August 2019. Regular working hours will resume on Sunday, Sept.1, 2019. Happy New Year.”

The first day of the Hijri New Year is usually determined by moon sighting.

The FAHR extended its congratulations on the occasion to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, Their Highnesses Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates; the people of the UAE and Arab and Islamic nations.

Earlier this year, the UAE Cabinet has approved public holidays for the public sector for the years 2019-2020, and granted the private sector equal official holidays, a total of 14 official public holidays. The decision aims at enhancing the balance between the two sectors and supporting the national economy in its various fields.

The decision will contribute to streamlining work in both the public and private sectors, and enhance the attractiveness of the private sector for Emiratis.

The decision will also make it easier for citizens and residents to plan their vacations in advance and to strengthen social ties between all segments of the society.

Public holidays for the public and private sectors 2019: Eid Al Fitr (29 Ramadan-3 Shawwal), Arafah Day (9 Dhu al Hijjah), Eid Al Adha (10-12 Dhu al Hijjah), Hijri New Year (1 Muharram 1441), Commemoration Day (1 December), National Day ( 2-3 December).

Public holidays for the public and private sectors 2020: New Year (1 January 2020), Eid Al Fitr (29 Ramadan-3 Shawwal), Arafah Day (9 Dhu al Hijjah), Eid Al Adha (10-12 Dhu al Hijjah), Hijri New Year (23 August), Commemoration Day (1 December), National Day ( 2-3 December).