Day of Arafah
The Day of Arafah falls on 9 Dhu al-Hijjah, the day before Eid al-Adha, and is expected around 15 May 2027, subject to moon sighting.
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About the day
The Day of Arafah falls on 9 Dhu al-Hijjah, the day before Eid al-Adha. It is the second day of the Hajj, when pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat and the Plain of Arafat near Makkah. Fasting on the day is not obligatory but is highly recommended for Muslims who are not performing Hajj.
In 2026 the Day of Arafah fell on 26 May. Government holidays for Eid al-Adha in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman began on or included that day, and the UAE treats Arafah Day as a one-day public holiday leading into the Eid break.
The UAE's Astronomy Centre expects the Day of Arafah in 2027 to fall on 15 or 16 May. The final date depends on the sighting of the Dhu al-Hijjah moon.
Dates for the next three years
| Year | Date | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 | Saturday 15 May 2027 | UAE and Gulf | Provisional until the organiser confirms |
Where this information comes from
- Gulf News: When is Arafat Day in the UAE and will it be a public holiday?
- Khaleej Times: Eid Al Adha 2026 holidays announced in these Gulf nations
- Khaleej Times: When will UAE celebrate Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha in 2027? Likely dates revealed
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