If you are travelling within the below Middle Eastern Public Holidays, please note that celebrations can last a couple of days and during these times some businesses will be closed. Coach, air and train travel may be affected. Tourist attractions will be open but may be crowded.
Public Holidays and Observances (2024)
Egypt: Coptic Christmas Day (08 January), Sham El-Nessim (06 May), Labour Day (01 May), Eid Al-Adha (17 June), Islamic New Year (08 July), Prophet Muhammad's Birthday (27 September), Armed Forces Day (06 October)
Jordan: New Years Day (01 January), Easter (31 March - 01 April), Labour Day (01 May), Eid Al-Adha (15 - 19 June), Islamic New Year (07 July), Prophet Muhammad's Birthday (15 September), Christmas Day (25 December).
Israel: Passover (23-29 April), Independance Day (14 May), Yom Kippur (12 October), First day of Sukkot (17 October), Independence Day (14 May).
Saudi Arabia: Saudi National Day (23 September), Eid Al-Adha (15 - 19 June), Islamic New Year (07 July).
Ramadan
Ramadan is considered a month of fasting, which is one of the five Pillars of Islam. It is observed with great enthusiasm in throughout the Middle East and all religions join to share in the celebrations throughout the Holy month. People can be seen greeting others by saying ‘Ramadan Kareem’, which means ‘Happy Ramadan’.
Eid al-Fitr is a three day celebration following the month of Ramadan. Celebrations take place in Festivals with traditional dance performances, special shows and live music in all major public areas. Eid is a time of joy and blessing for the entire Muslim community and Charity to the poor is a highly emphasized value in Islam.
Ramadan and Eid are based on the Islamic lunar calendar and therefore change by approximately 10 days each year.
In 2024, Ramadan is expected to begin in the evening of 10 March and end on 08 April, 2024. This is expected to be followed by Eid al-Fitr from 09 - 11 April.
In 2025, Ramadan is expected to begin in the evening of 27 February and end on 29 March, 2025. This is expected to be followed by Eid al-Fitr from 30 March - 01 April.